Using HDTV as monitor?? Any help?

SNWB · November 3rd, 2003, 10:13 PM

I am looking to buy an HDTV Widecreen/Rear Projection...

and I want to know if I can plug my computer into it and surf the internet from my couch with a wireless keyboard and mouse?

If this is possible, do you recommend an HDTV 45"-65" and under $3000.

Secondly I need to know how to do it...right now I just have an onboard graphics processor...that goes to my HP f70 LCD 17" monitor.

Tell me all you know about this,
thanks,
--sAm

c44151 · November 3rd, 2003, 10:43 PM

I would say yes as long as it has a tv output I have done it with my computer although it works great for movies web searching might be another question.

butch81385 · November 3rd, 2003, 10:52 PM

right now i have my computer hooked up to 2 monitors and a 20" tv. i dont know how much difference hdtv would make, but i am not able to easily read smaller website font on my tv...
just make sure you have tv out (usually s video or maybe a/v) and that your tv has the appropriate input capabilities. if you do this and are gonna get rid of the lcd, let me know...

Urban_Squrill · November 3rd, 2003, 10:53 PM

This weekend I will hook up my computer to my friends 65'' hdtv. I will report back when I do.

MDS · November 3rd, 2003, 11:00 PM

We have a JVC 56" HDTV with DVI in and it works better then the 36" tv I tried it on text still not as good as a monitor but is clearly readable. It is a model AV56WP74 that we got at best buy for around $1700.

BTW make sure you get one that has Digital Capabilities with DVI as you will be able to tell the diff. between sviedo and composit video vs. DVI. Also you will need a video card with DVI out

SNWB · November 3rd, 2003, 11:45 PM

Thanks for the great input guys...so for those of you that have tried this on an HDTV, have you tried with split screen? Can you have the computer on half of the screen, and watch regular tv programming on the other half??

Thanks Again,
--sAm

MegalosSkylaki · November 4th, 2003, 09:08 PM

Err..have you considered Projection Monitors ? They can be used either as TV's with a TV-tuner card/box, or computers monitors and have both inputs.

I would assume cable TV can be plugged into them through their coaxial connectors. A VIVO card could probably also be used.

They have come down in price, and several are available -like one by Epson for $1,000.

Ther do need projection screens which cost $300 --$500. Lamps cost about $300-$400 if they burn.

However, the Projection monitors are small--about DVD or audio-receiver size --unlike a huge Projection TV.

I'd double-check all this with a competent dealer or someone whose done it, as I have not.

Good luck,

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOG

SNWB · November 5th, 2003, 01:30 AM

Thanks for the info about the prejection screens...I am acctually looking for a large screen (50" or bigger) to go in the family room. And I'd like to operate a computer and surf the net with it as well....and I'm looking for something what will give me the best picture quality when viewing both regular TV (DVD/HDTV) and all computer programs.

thanks,
--sAm