Does it make sense to use a computer with HDTV?

Keeper Dave · 05-11-2009, 05:16 PM

We will be getting a Panasonic TC-L37G1 soon after they come available. I'm thinking of connecting a PC to the TV and also to our audio system so we can use streaming music stations. I'm pretty good with computers but know nothing about HD televisions. I'll probably upgrade an old computer I have with a new motherboard (with HDMI output) and processor. I figure we could watch BluRay movies if I install a BluRay drive and also video saved to the hard drive. I'm thinking maybe we could control the computer via a wireless mouse and keyboard as it's only 10 feet from our living room table to where the computer would be.

I've looked around and know this is done, but I worry that we might end up falling into some deathtrap caused by my ignorance. I don't want to make the system too complicated and cumbersome for my wife to use as a regular TV either.

Does this make sense to do or might I be better off just getting a BlyRay player and keeping it simple?

Thanks very much for any help, input and/or advice.

Dave

**PFC5** · 05-11-2009, 07:32 PM

If you are looking for just BD playback and web browsing you might to better to just get a PS3 and buy the Bluetooth keyboard & mouse and use that for BD movies, game console, and web browsing for less than it will cost to build such a system. It will be easier and no additional software would be required for BD movie playback.

Hope this helps!

DonnyDC · 05-11-2009, 08:53 PM

This topic is probably better suited to the HTPC(Home Theater Personal Computers) forum
http://www.highdefforum.com/computers-htpcs-44/

Keeper Dave · 05-11-2009, 10:17 PM

Aah.

Thanks very much. I'll browse there a bit and maybe get my answers without having to bother folks with my questions.

Thank you!

Quote:

Originally Posted by DonnyDC

This topic is probably better suited to the HTPC(Home Theater Personal Computers) forum

BGrutter · 05-12-2009, 10:37 AM

Personally, I think this topic could be well suited for eithe location. Particularly being that viewing distance (in my mind) is probably the biggest factor. I say that because he already has a computer set up. No, he'll just need to buy a drive and software (I would assume it'd be slightly cheaper than a PS3). However, if your web browsing will be limited to basic use, I too recommend the PS3. It looks nice, starts much more quickly than a PC, has a gaming console, and is extremely user friendly. Those are of course just some of the extra things you get.

Still, if you'd rather stick with a PC, it sounds like you have your basis covered. Other than the software (something I would not have thought about), it should be rather straight forward.

**PFC5** · 05-12-2009, 01:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGrutter

Personally, I think this topic could be well suited for eithe location. Particularly being that viewing distance (in my mind) is probably the biggest factor. I say that because he already has a computer set up. No, he'll just need to buy a drive and software (I would assume it'd be slightly cheaper than a PS3). However, if your web browsing will be limited to basic use, I too recommend the PS3. It looks nice, starts much more quickly than a PC, has a gaming console, and is extremely user friendly. Those are of course just some of the extra things you get.

Still, if you'd rather stick with a PC, it sounds like you have your basis covered. Other than the software (something I would not have thought about), it should be rather straight forward.

He is also looking at upgrading his motherboard (which would likely mean memory along with the processor/CPU he mentioned also), so just adding the drive would not do it alone with the BD playback software. Of course if he needs a more powerful computer anyway for other than BD playback, then that is a factor too.

Viewing distance would be important to be able to read the screen from the viewing distance so you are correct for sure in mentioning that (which I didn't).

I think it is fine here also while debating the possible uses in general. If he goes with a PC then he would likely get better answers in the HTPC section once that decision is made.

BGrutter · 05-12-2009, 02:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PFC5

He is also looking at upgrading his motherboard (which would likely mean memory along with the processor/CPU he mentioned also), so just adding the drive would not do it alone with the BD playback software. Of course if he needs a more powerful computer anyway for other than BD playback, then that is a factor too.

Viewing distance would be important to be able to read the screen from the viewing distance so you are correct for sure in mentioning that (which I didn't).

I think it is fine here also while debating the possible uses in general. If he goes with a PC then he would likely get better answers in the HTPC section once that decision is made.

My mistake. I misunderstood the original post. I took it to mean that he was already upgrading the computer, but was considering also throwing in a BlueRay player. Whoops.

Side note: I was in the same situation about a year ago. I went with a PS3 and have ABSOLUTELY no regrets. However, i've now become slightly addicted to Call of Duty.

**PFC5** · 05-12-2009, 02:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGrutter

My mistake. I misunderstood the original post. I took it to mean that he was already upgrading the computer, but was considering also throwing in a BlueRay player. Whoops.

Side note: I was in the same situation about a year ago. I went with a PS3 and have ABSOLUTELY no regrets. However, i've now become slightly addicted to Call of Duty.

Yeah, I am addicted to COD also. I had not gamed since the first Nintendo, but I am back at it with COD myself.

BGrutter · 05-12-2009, 05:42 PM

I hope this isn't against the rules, but if your into CoD, you should check out ShadowCompanyHQ.com. It is a clan/community of players that I belong to. We have about 350 active members assigned to different squads. We have a lot of structure and we focus on respect and having fun. I know this sounds like a sales pitch, but this is exactly how I would describe our group.

My PSN ID is DocDrill. Add me if you like, and that goes to anyone here. Always looking for new people to play with.

To the OP, I'd highly recommend the PS3. Great fun.

vexion · 05-12-2009, 06:04 PM

Along the same lines, I already have a computer with a BD drive and several 1080p ripped movie files. I've also just purchased a new Panasonic TC-P50S1.

Is there an easy way to watch my 1080p movie files directly on the TV, without fiddling with any cabling, and since I don't own a separate Blu-Ray player to hook to the TV? Will the TV's SD card slot enable me to drop the movies onto an appropriately-sized SD card and play them off of the card? Does the TV have sufficient codecs (or whatever) for playback of .avi or .mp4 files? Is there any simple way to stream wirelessly from my computer?

Thanks in advance!

As well, here are links to the specific TV at CNET and Newegg, respectively, for the sake of the specs.

**PFC5** · 05-12-2009, 06:12 PM

What do you do to join and is there any fee?

BGrutter · 05-12-2009, 10:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PFC5

What do you do to join and is there any fee?

No, not at all. Just take a look at the website and read under the rules and such. You'll simply post a Boot Camp request (I know, it might sound cheesy, but for organization sake, we run it under a military structure). If you look at the roster tab and check out Call of Duty World at War, you'll see how people are assigned to different squads and such. I'm currently the XO of W@W Division 1st Battalion (1st is for North America and 2nd is for Europe and such). All the ranks are explained much better on the website. We have a wide range of really good players to guys that really just like to have fun, guys that want to compete in game battles on a daily basis to guys that just like to play with an organized group a couple times a week, and guys that want to develop advanced tactics to guys that really just want to play with a teammates that actually work together.

I know I'm rambling, but I'd never had so much fun gaming as I do when I play with the friends I made playing after joining this community.

Also, we have guys from 50+ years old all the way down to 16 (we have a few younger than that, but they have to be vouched for). Average age is probably about 22-25 I'd say.

Anyway, take a look and tell me what you think. I'll chech back here and my inbox in case you or anyone else has any questions.

GymBrat98 · 05-13-2009, 04:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vexion

Along the same lines, I already have a computer with a BD drive and several 1080p ripped movie files. I've also just purchased a new Panasonic TC-P50S1.

Is there an easy way to watch my 1080p movie files directly on the TV, without fiddling with any cabling, and since I don't own a separate Blu-Ray player to hook to the TV? Will the TV's SD card slot enable me to drop the movies onto an appropriately-sized SD card and play them off of the card? Does the TV have sufficient codecs (or whatever) for playback of .avi or .mp4 files? Is there any simple way to stream wirelessly from my computer?

Thanks in advance!

As well, here are links to the specific TV at CNET and Newegg, respectively, for the sake of the specs.

It should, since it can display AVC/H.264 format. I have a Panny BD35, and it takes SD cards as well. You should also be able to view the file through your pc usb port too. Do you have Vista?

vexion · 05-15-2009, 08:06 PM

Yes, I have Vista.

05-11-2009, 05:16 PM	#1
Keeper Dave A couch and an HDTV to go please. Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 12	Does it make sense to use a computer with HDTV? We will be getting a Panasonic TC-L37G1 soon after they come available. I'm thinking of connecting a PC to the TV and also to our audio system so we can use streaming music stations. I'm pretty good with computers but know nothing about HD televisions. I'll probably upgrade an old computer I have with a new motherboard (with HDMI output) and processor. I figure we could watch BluRay movies if I install a BluRay drive and also video saved to the hard drive. I'm thinking maybe we could control the computer via a wireless mouse and keyboard as it's only 10 feet from our living room table to where the computer would be. I've looked around and know this is done, but I worry that we might end up falling into some deathtrap caused by my ignorance. I don't want to make the system too complicated and cumbersome for my wife to use as a regular TV either. Does this make sense to do or might I be better off just getting a BlyRay player and keeping it simple? Thanks very much for any help, input and/or advice. Dave

05-11-2009, 07:32 PM	#2
PFC5 Super Moderator Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 34,082	If you are looking for just BD playback and web browsing you might to better to just get a PS3 and buy the Bluetooth keyboard & mouse and use that for BD movies, game console, and web browsing for less than it will cost to build such a system. It will be easier and no additional software would be required for BD movie playback. Hope this helps! __________________ Denon AVR-887 Klipsch RP-5 Pwred Towers (mains) (525 watts peak each 12"Subs) All Klipsch RC-25(ctr),(2)SS1(surr),(2)SS1(rearSurr) Toshiba (2)HD-A20,PS3,BD35 For SACD/DVD-A Samsung HD-841 Panny 50pz80u plasma SETTINGS RCA HD50LPW162 50"DLP w/HD2+ SA 3250HD 47" LCD+Yamaha5790+HD-A1(bedroom) Harmony 680 + (2) 670s (amazing remote/support) Game room with Onkyo receiver & B&W Speakers The_Cable_Game Take the high ground and be happier PSN: PFC5

05-12-2009, 10:37 AM	#5
BGrutter High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Kansas City, MO Posts: 242	Personally, I think this topic could be well suited for eithe location. Particularly being that viewing distance (in my mind) is probably the biggest factor. I say that because he already has a computer set up. No, he'll just need to buy a drive and software (I would assume it'd be slightly cheaper than a PS3). However, if your web browsing will be limited to basic use, I too recommend the PS3. It looks nice, starts much more quickly than a PC, has a gaming console, and is extremely user friendly. Those are of course just some of the extra things you get. Still, if you'd rather stick with a PC, it sounds like you have your basis covered. Other than the software (something I would not have thought about), it should be rather straight forward. __________________ Sceptre 42" 720p LCD (X42GV) Vizio 37" 1080p LCD (VO37LF) Panasonic SA-HT740 Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8300 Sony 40gig PS3

05-12-2009, 05:42 PM	#9
BGrutter High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Kansas City, MO Posts: 242	I hope this isn't against the rules, but if your into CoD, you should check out ShadowCompanyHQ.com. It is a clan/community of players that I belong to. We have about 350 active members assigned to different squads. We have a lot of structure and we focus on respect and having fun. I know this sounds like a sales pitch, but this is exactly how I would describe our group. My PSN ID is DocDrill. Add me if you like, and that goes to anyone here. Always looking for new people to play with. To the OP, I'd highly recommend the PS3. Great fun. __________________ Sceptre 42" 720p LCD (X42GV) Vizio 37" 1080p LCD (VO37LF) Panasonic SA-HT740 Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8300 Sony 40gig PS3

05-12-2009, 06:12 PM	#11
PFC5 Super Moderator Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 34,082	What do you do to join and is there any fee? __________________ Denon AVR-887 Klipsch RP-5 Pwred Towers (mains) (525 watts peak each 12"Subs) All Klipsch RC-25(ctr),(2)SS1(surr),(2)SS1(rearSurr) Toshiba (2)HD-A20,PS3,BD35 For SACD/DVD-A Samsung HD-841 Panny 50pz80u plasma SETTINGS RCA HD50LPW162 50"DLP w/HD2+ SA 3250HD 47" LCD+Yamaha5790+HD-A1(bedroom) Harmony 680 + (2) 670s (amazing remote/support) Game room with Onkyo receiver & B&W Speakers The_Cable_Game Take the high ground and be happier PSN: PFC5

05-11-2009, 08:53 PM	#3
DonnyDC High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 2,385	This topic is probably better suited to the HTPC(Home Theater Personal Computers) forum http://www.highdefforum.com/computers-htpcs-44/

05-12-2009, 06:04 PM	#10
vexion How can anyone watch standard def? Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 16	Along the same lines, I already have a computer with a BD drive and several 1080p ripped movie files. I've also just purchased a new Panasonic TC-P50S1. Is there an easy way to watch my 1080p movie files directly on the TV, without fiddling with any cabling, and since I don't own a separate Blu-Ray player to hook to the TV? Will the TV's SD card slot enable me to drop the movies onto an appropriately-sized SD card and play them off of the card? Does the TV have sufficient codecs (or whatever) for playback of .avi or .mp4 files? Is there any simple way to stream wirelessly from my computer? Thanks in advance! As well, here are links to the specific TV at CNET and Newegg, respectively, for the sake of the specs.

05-15-2009, 08:06 PM	#14
vexion How can anyone watch standard def? Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 16	Yes, I have Vista.

Similar Threads to Does it make sense to use a computer with HDTV?
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Study Predicts Blu-ray Cannot Save Disc-Based Media	Lee Stewart	High Definition Media	260	02-18-2009 02:44 AM
Need help with blurry text on my CRT HDTV	darien95	Computers/HTPCs	7	11-18-2008 07:30 PM
Help me connect my Computer to my HDTV!	jfoerch	Computers/HTPCs	34	06-06-2008 12:11 PM
HDMI 1.3 - Is It Necessary?	Lee Stewart	High Definition Media	35	01-24-2008 09:40 PM
Blu-Ray player: will it sale?	dontknowjack	Blu-Ray Players	121	06-02-2006 08:22 PM
Is it really better?	david Devonick	SD DVD Players and Discs	22	03-03-2005 05:22 PM