I have a stupid question so don't laugh

[camaro]

Alright, you know how you need HDTVs to play DVDs and digital cable at higher resolution. And there are currently 3 standards 480p, 1080i, and the best 720p. So what happens when I play DVDs or connect an XBOX to my monitor that can show higher resolutions. Is the monitor the same thing as HDTV? I know the computer resolutions it can support, but how does that translate into the 3 standard ones used for HDTVs? If I pop in a DVD into my DVD ROM will it play it at 720p? I'm just wondering cause I don't really feel like spending money on an expensive HDTV, but I can just use my monitor if it can do the same thing.

They are not the same. HDTV resolution is a different aspect ratio I think, so you still end up with the black bars if you go wide mode.

How would you hook up your X-Box to your monitor? Do you mean through your video card input? It would be the same as hooking it to a TV.

[camaro]

They have something that connects the monitor to the XBOX. So I was wondering if I get a higher resolution when playing XBOX games on the monitor. Same with DVDs. I know I'll get the black bars in widescreen mode, but will it be at higher resolution then a TV?

[cyphen]

it may interest yoo to know that many HDTVs can actually be used as a computer monitor as well.

[Siliconjunkie]

It doesnt make alot of difference. It just gives it to the HD set in component. Save your money and hook it up with s-video. We tried the HD thinger on my HD set, no different.

[Bovon]

Originally posted by camaro
I have a stupid question so don't laugh

[Solid Snake]

The composite connector (yellow RCA) carries about 480 lines of resolution maximum. It doesn't matter how many lines your monitor device has, using this connection will never give you more than 480 lines (NTSC). The same goes with S-Video although this connector will give you less color bleed and a sharper image. To take full advantage of your HDTV, you will need to use progressive scan connectors (red, green and blue RCA).

[camaro]

What about playing DVDs in the DVD-ROM?

[Solid Snake]

The limitation still applies to composite and S-video.

[Gomer]

you will need to use progressive scan connectors (red, green and blue RCA).

AKA Component Video I think.