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General discussion

Using LCD TV as computer monitor?

Sep 24, 2005 9:32AM PDT

Well, I'm saving up for a computer and I'd love to have a great huge monitor, and it seems as if large LCD TVs are a lot cheaper than Computer Monitors (32" LCD for $1200 while a 24" Dell Monitor already runs around $900 at cheapest)

I've been reading that using a TV as a monitor, even an HDTV LCD, is horrible for computers. But I've also read that it all depends on the screen resolution.

OK, my real question is:

If the image quality is worth it, what should I look for in an LCD TV that would make using it as a computer monitor an enjoyable experience?

Discussion is locked

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Dell TV's
Sep 27, 2005 6:12AM PDT

I plan on doing the same, Dell 19'' LCD TV from samsclub is 598 w/shipping. That's the cheapest 19'' LCD you're gonna find that has a decent picture. The dell kiosk was using this exact TV for their monitor on a laptop and then switched to an HDTV broadcast. Both were gorgeous. I am saving for the monitor and should have it within a month or two. Nothing beats seeing it for yourself!.

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TV for computer
Sep 27, 2005 9:07AM PDT

My 2-cents: Computers need a progressive scan display. The Dell TV comes equipped with an internal scaler that converts signals either for TV or computer, which is why it works for both uses. Just because a TV looks good and the resolution is good doesn't make it usable for a computer. You can, however, use a regular TV for a computer if you use an external scaler to get the proper display for what a computer needs. Check it out before you end up with a 40" $1200 paper weight.