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How to Use a Nintendo RF Switch

The RF switch on the back of a Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) allows you to switch back and forth between either an RF coaxial cable connection or a RCA A/V cable connection. However, this A/V connection is slightly different than the now familiar red, yellow and white cables. This cable connection is a single cable that provides both audio and video signals in the same cable. It is no longer used by televisions so if you are looking to hook up your Nintendo to a new TV you will only be capable of using the RF coaxial cable side of the connection switch.

Things You'll Need

Nintendo Entertainment System
Coaxial cable

Instructions

- 1
  Connect a coaxial cable to the RF coaxial cable connection for the RF switch hookup (if you are using a newer television). If you have an old television (20 years or more) hook up the RCA single A/V cable into the RCA cable connection.
- 2
  Plug the opposite end of the coaxial cable into the "In" port on your television. If you are using the RCA connection, insert it into the single RCA cable input on your TV.
- 3
  Power on the TV and the Nintendo system. Adjust the switch to the RF coaxial cable side if you are using a coaxial cable. Change the switch over to the RCA connection side if you are using the older audio/video connection. You can move this switch back and forth at any time, even while the NES is powered on.
- 4
  Change the TV to either channel 3 or 4 and the Nintendo gaming content will appear on the screen.

Classic Console Games