Getting your LG television to recognize the correct source the moment you power it on eliminates the frustration of navigating through multiple inputs. Setting the default input on LG TV models is a straightforward process, but it requires understanding the specific menu structure of your remote and settings panel. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough to ensure your TV always boots to the desired device, whether it is a cable box, a gaming console, or a streaming stick.
Understanding Default Input Settings
On many televisions, the concept of a "default input" is often confused with the "Home" or "Smart" menu. The Home screen is the main dashboard you see after the TV boots, while the default input is the specific HDMI or AV port that the TV displays immediately after the initial power-on sequence. If your television remains on when you use an external device, you likely want the input source to match that device. LG sets the last active input port as the memory state when the TV is turned off, meaning the TV remembers where you were last. However, you can lock this to a specific port to prevent the screen from going black if the connected device is powered off.
Changing the Input Source via the Quick Settings Menu
The fastest method to change the active signal your TV displays is through the on-screen Quick Settings menu. This menu is designed for immediate adjustments and provides a direct path to selecting your preferred input. Follow these steps to manually switch the signal and influence the behavior of your television.
Step-by-Step Guide
Turn on your LG television using the remote control or the power button on the set.
Press the Input or Source button on your remote control. This button is usually located near the navigation pad.
A menu overlay will appear on the screen, listing all available inputs such as HDMI 1, HDMI 2, USB, or RF.
Navigate through the list using the arrow keys and select the device you want to use.
Press OK or Enter to confirm the selection and set it as the current input.
Configuring the Settings Menu for Startup
If you prefer to access the configuration through a graphical interface, the Settings menu allows for deeper customization. Here, you can verify which port is currently recognized and adjust related settings. This method is useful for reviewing your connection status before setting the default.
Accessing the Settings
Grab your remote and press the Settings icon, which looks like a gear.
Scroll down and select All Settings to open the main configuration panel.
Look for the General section and click on External Device Manager .
Within this menu, you will see options related to HDMI-CEC and the input selection process.
Setting HDMI Signal Plus as Default
Many modern LG TVs include a specific setting called HDMI Signal Plus or HDMI Ultra High Speed to ensure the TV is searching for the strongest available signal. Enabling this ensures the TV is always looking for a high-bandwidth connection, which is essential for 4K content. If this setting is off, the TV might fail to detect your external device, causing it to skip to the next available input.
How to Enable
Navigate to Settings General External Device Manager .
Look for an option labeled HDMI Signal Plus or HDMI Ultra High Speed .
Toggle the switch to the On position.
