Connect the DVD Player to the TV

• Connecting the DVD player is the trickiest part of the process, because it will work differently depending on the model of TV and DVD player you have. Older DVD players and TV sets have composite video and audio, which are three connections that are yellow (for video) and red and white (for audio; divided into two cables for stereo sound). Very old TVs may not have even this type of connection, but only a coaxial connection like that used for cable TV. Other connections to look for include S-video (which is round with little holes or prongs in a rounded U shape) or component video (red, green and blue ends). Find a connection type that both your DVD player and your TV set have in common and use that. Most DVD players come with a connection cable, or you can buy them at stores that sell TVs and DVD players.
  
  

Use an RF Modulator for Really Old TVs

• If you have a really old TV that doesn't have even composite video, check to make sure it has a coaxial connection like that used for a cable TV connection. This cable has a set of metal threads and a slender wire in the very center. Buy an RF modulator to convert the signal from the coaxial cable to the composite video. Connect the coaxial cable to the TV and the other end of it to the RF modulator, and then connect the composite video cable from the RF modulator to the DVD player.
  
  

Set the TV to Receive the DVD Signal

• Consult your TV set manual to determine how to set the TV set so it plays the DVD signal. For example, some TV sets have a special button on the remote control that says "game" or "video mode" that selects through the various sources of video signal. Once you turn the DVD player on and set your TV to the correct signal, you should see a special screen that identifies it as the DVD player. It may have the player's manufacturer's logo on it, or it may be a menu screen on a specific DVD disc, if you have one in the machine.
  
  

Select the Content

• Most DVDs have a menu that plays at the beginning, giving you options to play the movie, choose from the episode list, or watch special features. There is a set of navigation buttons on the remote that lets you choose which one you want (look for arrows) and select it (the "Select" button is usually in the center of the four arrows).