Ethernet input in a HDTV

[joe360]

If an HDTV had an ethernet input in it, what exactly does it do? Does it hook up to the the computer network?

 

[Shadowknight]

Read the instruction manual. Sometimes it's a "service port" a technician can use when checking the TV during a maintenance/repair job.

 

[pRS317]

wow, that would be nice if it did hook up to the network to stream from a file server 🙂

 

[biggestmuff]

Typically used for service and maintenance.

 

[Slick5150]

At most (other than service) it might download firmware updates. I've never seen a TV do anything beyond that.

 

[TastesLikeChicken]

Believe it or not, some manufacturers are offering ethernet inputs on their HDTVs that connect to your home network and through which you can stream pictures, music, and video; basically a built-in media client in the TV. Pioneer has it on some of their higher-end sets. They call it "Home Media Gallery."

Text

HOME MEDIA GALLERY
IP Network Compatibilty Designed to DLNA Guidelines: Enables a link with a networked PC to share content, including movies (even HD movies), music, and photos.

Microsoft PlaysForSureTM Protected Content: No-hassle playback of Microsoft PlaysForSure audio or video content downloaded from the Web and stored on personal computers, via an existing home network system.***

Supported Formats:

Video: WMV9, MPEG1, MPEG2-PS, MPEG2-TS, MPEG-ASP
Audio: LPCM, MP3, WMA, WMA9 PRO, AC3, AAC, WAV
Photo: JPG, TIFF, PNG, BMP, GIF

 

[pRS317]

sounds like i may be needing a new tv, soon! no more need for a separate htpc 😀

 

[TastesLikeChicken]

It'd be nice if a TV had the equivalent of a remote desktop connection built-in through ethernet for browsing the web or checking e-mail through the TV, as well as support streaming video/audio content. Seems like it's moving in that direction.

Maybe a built-in gigabit switch would be nice too since so many A/V components have ethernet now?