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General discussion

using an hdtv as a monitor

by migalfest Jun 7, 2007 11:57AM PDT

I have a dell dimension 4600c, I don't know which video card is installed, and I want to use my sony kdf50e2000 50 inch hdtv as a monitor.I currently hav a MAG 17 inch monitor model 786n hooked to my computer. I know that I may need a dvi to hdmi cable cable in order to connect the tv, but I don't know if I have a dvi output from my computer. How can I tell if I have a dvi output on my computer? I have checked my manual and have not been able to determine which video card is installed or what the output to the monitor is. Please help me if you can. Please let me know if more info is needed and how to get the info needed.

Discussion is locked

3 Posts

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Here is what a dvi connector looks like.

by ahtoi Jun 7, 2007 4:03PM PDT

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Visual_Interface

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4600c only has vga output

by ramarc Jun 8, 2007 12:10AM PDT

you'll need to add a "low profile agp" card like this geforce 6200: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814121542

you'll probably have to remove the card's bracket.

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I wouldn't bother

by jackson dougless Jun 8, 2007 1:22AM PDT

HDTVs are certainly better as monitors than your standard def TVs, but they aren't designed to handle still images like monitors are. They also have fixed resolutions they can display things at.

Unless you bought one of those models that specifically state it's an HDTV AND an LCD monitor, save yourself some money, a lot of wasted time, and frustration and just abandon the idea now. I know you probably want to be able to play with your very expensive new toy, but get yourself a game console or high-def DVD player and some high def titles to use with it. You're going to be very disappointed with the results of trying to use it as a monitor, assuming you even can.

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