Universal Remote Controls - How to select the default device for your TV

This guide is a brief introduction on how to select your default TV device.

When is this useful to know?

This guide is helpful when encountering the following issue;

• When turning on your TV, your TV starts playing your digital TV channels, a soundbar, a blank screen, or something else - and not the device that you usually use (set-top box, Sky, Virgin, etc)

Why does it do this?

Most modern TVs have multiple devices or options for watching the TV. Some of these are built-in, such as freeview/digital TV, and others are devices that are plugged into HDMI ports, such as Sky boxes, DVD players, or games console.

This issue occurs when your TV is turned on and it doesn't know what device/channel you want to watch. Do you want to watch built-in freeview, your DVD player, or your Sky box? 

How to fix it

Method 1) Change the physical HDMI port of your device

A lot of TVs have a default HDMI port, if a device is plugged into this HDMI port then the TV will always power on with this device active. This is usually HDMI port one, but it does depend on the brand and TV model.

If you are comfortable removing/reading devices to your TVs HDMI ports, then this can usually be tested using trial and error. Alternatively, we would recommend referring to your manufacturer's instructions their technical support line, or their online support articles.

Method 2) Change the setting for this option in your TV menu

Many TVs (especially more modern versions) will have the option to select your preferred/default device/HDMI port in the TV options. This is commonly under headings such as "Power on preferences", "Default device", or "Default HDMI".

Whether your TV has this setting, what it is called, and where it is located, differs greatly depending on brand and TV model. We would recommend referring to your manufacturer's instructions, their technical support line, or their online support articles.

How do I know what TV HDMI port my preferred device is currently plugged into?

Please do the following;

• Locate the HDMI cable that's in the back of your Sky box
• Follow the cable until you find where it's plugged into the back of your TV
• Next to where your cable is plugged into your TV there should be a port number, for example "HDMI 1"

Links to common manufacturer's support pages that provide solutions to this issue

• Panasonic (go to subheading "How do I get my TV to default to my Sky, Virgin or Set-Top Box when I turn the TV on?")