[rocketkarl]

There seems to be lots of discussion about using an HDTV as a computer monitor, but not alot of empirical data. I'd like to hear how people's setups work with this.


It sounds like best of the best is DVI from PC to HDTV - but that's expensive on both sides (vid cards & TVs) - not to mention the cables - or the video switcher needed to toggle DVD, HD Cable box, and PC. I'm sure that DVI looks great, but I'm more curious about whether some cheaper methods work decently enough.


Currently, I'm using S-video out from a Voodoo 3000 card on a PC, to a regular 32" analog TV, with a wireless surfboard (keyboard with built in mouse). Graphics are fine for most applications, and text is usually fine.


I plan to start by seeing how good old 800x600 looks on an HDTV, through S-vid. After all, I don't want the resolution too high, or I won't be able to read anything from the couch. But, if that dosen't look good, has anyone tried converting the VGA to components, and then into the HDTV? Can you get 16:9 that way?


If none of those methods work, and I have to get a new video card, but still don't want to splurge on an HDTV with DVI, has anyone found a vid card with component out? How's that look?


Thanks much.

 

[bullgates]

Hey Karl,



Try the Home Theater Computer Forum......... There is a ton of info that you will find helpful in there.



bg

 

[rocketkarl]

Thanks Bulldogs. I must be blind, I looked through the forum lists several times before I saw that one.

 

[arungupta]

The monitor picture quality depends on the connection you use. The choices from best to worst are:


DVI - best

VGA - close second

Component

S-video

Composite - Worst


DVI and VGA connections are good for text work. Component and below are only adequate for watching video - at lower quality.