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Question

Can a TV be used as a computer monitor?

Apr 1, 2016 3:36PM PDT

I would like a larger monitor and the thought crossed my mind that a redundant TV could fill that role.
Question 1; Is that possible?
Question 2; Is it as effective as a purpose built monitor?

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Yes, with caveats.
Apr 1, 2016 3:55PM PDT

The one recurring thing is that the PC overscans on HDMI connections. You need to ask the TV maker if the model has a Just Fit, Full Pixel setting (the name varies so I can't list them all) PLUS ONE MORE THING. Does the setting stick when you power down and up.

Last there's another nuance about TVs as displays. Many will not enter sleep mode because, well TVs weren't thinking about such use. Another question for sales and the maker.

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TV as a computer monitor.
Apr 2, 2016 2:24AM PDT

Looks like its time to get the grandson over. Many thanks.

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Answer
yep, that is what I have
Apr 2, 2016 12:59PM PDT

My living room tv has a computer attached to it since I am a cord cutter. The only problem I had when installing it was resolution because it was not filling the screen. Had to try different ones even though I was connected via hdmi before finding one that worked. Now I can sit in my recliner and do exactly whatever I normally do on the computer in my computer room. During slow part of shows, I can tab over to my email and surf while listening to the show.

Anyway starting to get offtrack. You did not mention what type of tv. If crt - then maybe not. If lcd, plasma or one of the others, then you should have no problems.