I'm trying to get the output of my laptop (old Compaq Presario) onto my TV using s-video connectors. I've got the picture on the TV, in colour, but the picture quality is lousy with 'snow' like it needs tuning in.

Do I have a dodgy cable you reckon or is there something else going on?

s-video picture will be pretty crap but should not be snowy. I would try a different TV first, then try a new cable, s-video should not need tuning. Let us know what you kind out.
:)

S Video should be higher quality than composite (yellow) video. You need to make sure your TV properly supports it, and that your video out on the laptop is "broadcasting" in PAL, and not NTSC as this may cause issues.

If in doubt, try a new cable.

Well since composite is broadcast quality, and s-video is a slightly higher quality version, it certainly shouldn't be snowy. I would recommend trying a different cable if available, and try a different device with an S-Video out (e.g. DVD player). This should identify if its the laptop or the TV at fault.

If the laptop is at fault it could be the graphics card settings (PAL or NTSC - should be PAL/I in the UK).

thanks, i'll try some of your suggestions.