tv/computer/movies/etc. system?

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Shane_Allen

New Member
I got the idea to buy a TV a bit ago and then I thought I should get one that I could use for a computer monitor when I'm not watching a movie or tv or playing a game on it. Then I realized my laptop sucks and I should get a new computer. So here's what I'm thinking...

Is it feasible to have a set-up of one HDTV screen, a speaker system and a tower all of which is capable of normal computer functions (PC gaming, programs, internet, etc.), blu-ray/HD DVD playing, television (cable, like with an onscreen guide or tivo or whatever) and PS3-able without having to unplug a bunch of stuff and switching a bunch of settings? And have the mouse/keyboard/remotes/controllers all be wireless?

The point is to just have one tower and one screen for as many functions as possible. The most important thing is that the same screen runs my computer display and tv and movies, but usually you see someone with a computer, a tv and the tv has a ps3 attached or a cable box and dvd player attached. I just want to push it all together, with as few cords as possible.

I'd be buying the stuff one at a time, screen then tower then speakers over a period of time of possible a few years. Is there any general advice you guys could give?

Like what's this TV card I heard about? I think I'd need one of those, or is there a site that you can just watch any tv show on, like south park and the discovery channel?

Thanks.
 
Well to answer your question. Yes to almost all. There is a way to do most of those things to make life easy. I'm sorta running the setup of what you are trying to accomplish. Hope I can help you out alittle bit.

The main answer to most of your problems will be the tuner card.

You will need your 1)Tower 2) HDTV 3)Game console 4)TV service provider (comcast maybe?)

I recommend that you get a Media center OS. You dont need one but it helps alot!
  • XP Media Center
  • Vista Ultimate w/ Media Center

Remote and Tuner Card
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2905639&CatId=1425
The link above is just an example. There are different models and makes. I trust Hauppauge but i have a dif. model.

With this remote, tuner card, and Media OS you can watch, record tv, multitask on your desktop all at the same time. Ohh yea, if you dont have enough cash or time to splurge on an Media based OS then dont worry, the tuner card should come with a software that will allow you to view TV on your desktop.

As for the game console, you'll just have to plug it in to your tv, most likely your new HDTV should have 2 or more A/V and HDMI connections aswell as a PC monitor Connection by VGA component.

And if you are looking for a good wireless keyboard and mouse. Try this.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=LPKqGw-tNgE

Now I know most people recommend Logitech over Microsoft Hardware any day but I bought that exact keyboard and mouse a couple months back for exactly 85 bucks NIB (retails at 169.99) off ebay and I love it!
 
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you dont need vista ultimate, all vista versions come with media center, home premium is what i have and love it
 
vista business edition doesn't have the media center, or the dvd maker software...you need to get vista home premium or ultimate to have those features.
 
Shane_Allen said:
Thank you. I understand what I'm dealing with here now. Does the card replace the need for a cable reciever box completly?
Click to expand...

no it doesnt. You will need a cable box (if you have cable) and you will need a cable wire running from the box to the tuner card on your desktop computer.
 
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