HDTV Forum

I am in the market to buy a computer that will allow me to watch me movies in 1080p. My budget for this computer is $1500. HP has an HD computer that fits my budget but the problem is getting a straight answer from them. When I ask them if I will be able to watch movies at 1080p they insist that it all depends upon my RCV and Monitor.

I have a problem with that answer. Here is why: My RCV is a pioneer Elite that allows 1080p. Its the VSX-82TXS, My monitor is the Pioneer Elite PRO-FHD1, its 1080p. My HD DVD player is the Toshiba HD-1A. With this set up I can watch HD movies at 1080i only. So my monitor and RCV is not the only determinate factors in getting 1080p. To corroborate this, Toshiba list the output resolution of their Laptops hooked up to TV monitors. The listings are 720p, 1080i and 1080p depending on the prices. Toshiba is way out of price range by the way.

If there is someone who has a 1080p computer or who is knowledgeable about this I would truly appriciate some advice from you. Thanks in advance.

The piece you need to focus on is the video card. If the video card can output 1080p, you should be all set. Note that to get a true 1080p "full HD' signal, it should support an output resolution of 1920x1080.

Another thing to consider is the content you will be outputting. I assume the movies you will be watching will be from an HD DVD or Blu-ray drive in the PC? If so, you will need an HDCP-compliant HDMI or DVI connection from the PC to your TV to enjoy full resolution. Otherwise the content is protected such that the PC will output a lower resolution, or no picture at all.

BTW, in the setup you mentioned, the Toshiba A1 can only output 1080i, so that is your limiting factor.

Cheers,

- Shane

Thanks very much Shane. That is exactly the information I am looking for. Your reply is a 100% helpful.