There are many different ports, plugs, cables, and cords that go along with connecting your TV Box and modem — continue reading to learn how to find the right connection.
Pick a section below to discover more information about the cable you're using to connect your TV Box or modem to other equipment.
Match the connection type you're using for your TV Box to the input selected on the TV. For example, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) connection type would need to match the HDMI 1 or 2 input. The inputs can be changed on your TV by using your remote control.
TV Boxes
Do you know which connection type you're using? Visit the sections below to learn more.
Coaxial cable
These common cables keep your TV signal strong. They connect either from the wall or splitter to your TV Box.
You may also use a coaxial cable to connect your TV to your TV Box, to some DVD players and VCRs, and to other similar devices.
- The name of the coaxial cable input on your TV can vary based on how the manufacturer has it labeled.
- Most manufacturers label this input as "Cable In," "Coaxial," or "Antenna."
- Use your TV remote to select Live TV or tune to Channel 3 or 4.
Component video
Often called "RCA cables," these color-coded cables transfer a signal from your TV Box to your TV, projector, DVD player, or VCR.
- Component video cables have red, green, and blue tips.
- Red and white cables often come with them to provide sound.
- Note: The color of the cable tip always matches the color of the plug it connects into.
- Current Xfinity X1 TV Boxes don’t support component video — HDMI is the current standard for video connection type.
- Most TVs manufactured over the past 10 (or more) years have HDMI, so there’s a good chance that your TV has an HDMI connection.
- If you need to use the component video connection on your TV, there are HDMI to component converters available from many electronics retailers, such as Amazon or Best Buy.
- These adapters aren't devices supported by Comcast and we can’t guarantee they’ll work for your specific television.
- Note: The color of the cable tip always matches the color of the plug it connects into.
- The name of the component video input on your TV can vary based on how the manufacturer has it labeled.
- For example, the component video input could be labeled “Component,” or “Comp.”
- Note: Most TVs have the input labeled on the back of the TV for easier identification. Use your TV remote to select the matching input.
Composite video
Another type of RCA cable, the composite video cable is the most common analog cable for connecting your TV to a DVD player, VCR, or video game console.
- Composite Video cables have yellow tips.
- Red and white cables often come with them to provide sound.
- Many current Xfinity X1 TV Boxes don’t support composite video.
- If you have composite video connections on your TV, you’ll need to request a specific X1 TV Box model called XG2.
- The name of the composite video input on your TV can vary based on how the manufacturer has it labeled.
- For example, the composite video input could be labeled “Video In,” or “AV.”
- Note: Most TVs have the input labeled on the back of the TV for easier identification. Use your TV remote to select the matching input.
DVI
A DVI cable brings crystal clear video to many HD TVs, monitors, and other displays, but doesn't carry audio.
- DVI cables have become less common since HDMI cables were introduced.
- The name of the DVI input on your TV can vary based on how the manufacturer has it labeled.
- For example, the DVI input could be labeled “DVI.”
- Note: Most TVs have the input labeled on the back of the TV for easier identification. Use your TV remote to select the matching input.
HDMI
HDMI cables are a popular choice for carrying both audio and video signals to your home theater setup.
- HDMI cables are fast enough for the latest 4K movies and shows.
- HDMI cables are required for watching 4K video.
- The name of the HDMI input on your TV can vary based on how the manufacturer has it labeled.
- For example, the HDMI input could be labeled “HDMI 1,” or “HDMI 2.”
- Note: Most TVs have the input labeled on the back of the TV for easier identification. Use your TV remote to select the matching input.
Internet and voice modems
Coaxial cable
These are good for more than just TV signals. They're also a quick and easy solution for getting your high-speed internet and/or landline connected.
- Depending on your exact modem, you'll connect the cable from your wall or splitter to a port on your modem.
- The input could be labeled "Coaxial," "CATV," "Cable," or "Cable TV."
- The input could be labeled "Coaxial," "CATV," "Cable," or "Cable TV."
Ethernet cable
These popular cables connect your computer to a modem, router, or gateway. They come in many different colors, but unlike some other types of cables, the color doesn't matter.
Ethernet cables all perform the same function. The tips (formally called RJ-45 connectors) look like a slightly bigger plug for a landline phone but should always be plugged into a port labeled Ethernet.
- Cat 5 cables offer fast Ethernet connections at 10/100 Mbps speeds.
- Cat 5e cables offer gigabit Ethernet speeds up to ten times faster at 1000 Mbps.
- Cat 6 cables offer gigabit Ethernet speeds, and up to 10 Gbps in shorter lengths.
- Cat 6a and Cat 7 cables offer Ethernet speeds up to 100 Gbps.
Phone cable
Also called an RJ-11 cable, this commonplace cable plugs your home phone into your modem's Tel or Telephone port.
Like Ethernet cables, phone cables may come in a variety of colors, but the color doesn't impact use or speed.
Power cord
With a variety of lengths and styles, these cords connect your modem or gateway to an electrical socket. Always check your modem's manual to learn what types of power cables are compatible.
Additional information
Visit our Online Support Center to find common solutions.
The easiest way to activate, manage, and troubleshoot your Xfinity experience is with the Xfinity app! Get 24/7 real-time support, pay your bill, view plan details, get outage updates, and more. Download the free Xfinity app, or scan the QR code with your smartphone.
Need additional support? Ask Xfinity Assistant.
