PC to HDTV Adaptor???

[lyonhart]

I am trying to connect the VGA output of my notebook to the componant video in's of my 38" RCA HDTV.  Is there some risk to doing this?  I have a lot of movies made in the Divx format, and I would like to utilize the notebook for playing them.  I have a projector adaptor that converts from VGA to S-Video.  It's OK, but I am really looking for a direct cable connection from the PC's VGA to componant outs.

Tonight after a lot of searching, I found many different seeming "solutions" on the web, at many differnt prices.  The amount of information is getting very confusing. The best, simplest, and most affordable one I THINK, is a PlayStation 2 adaptor for 40 bucks. It has 10' very heavy duty cables, and the user reviews said it was like going from night to day on their HDTV's.  But, is it really the same thing coming straight out of a notebook VGA port?

One website was offering a $100 RCA powered adaptor, and had a very long explanation (with many warnings) of why you need it, because if the TV does not recieve a 60hz signal, it can damage the inputs.

Well, my notebook, (or any PC) certainly puts out a 60hz signal.  I also have "PowerStrip" a small utillity that lets you fine tune your computer's video output, and solves any overscan issues.

What do you think???  There are a number of Divx compatible set-top boxes coming out now, but I would think my notebook would be a great customisable playback device for all the different video formats coming out now........Terminator 2 in WM9 HD on my HDTV system??

[StarvingForHDTV]

I have this:

http://www.ati.com/products/hdtvadapter/index.html

I don't know if it would work for you or not.  It costs $29 + cables.  You would need a compatible ATI video card to use it though.  

When I tried using 1080i output for my TV, the refresh rate was set to 30hz.  This was totally unacceptable to me.  I would think you would be better off if your TV accepts native 720p.  480p uses 60hz, and was easier on my eyes, though it's a low resolution image.

Overall I don't think the adapter was worth my time or money.  Your results may vary.

Good luck,

Starving