Video From an Old Computer to a T.V.
September 9, 2008 10:28 PM Subscribe
How do I go about channeling video from a computer with just a VGA output to a T.V. that only takes component and composite inputs?
I have a ton of downloaded video content that I'd like to be able to watch on my T.V. However, the videos are on a relatively old computer that only has a VGA output. I recently had the bright idea to go out and buy a VGA to component cable and only later did I discover (thanks to askmetafilter) that the computer must have T.V.-out capability (which, of course, it does not).
After a little more combing through previous askmetafilter posts, I've now arrived at two options: a converter or a new video card. But, which would be a better option?
I've come across two converters, this and this. However, these are just slightly above my budget and an older but capable video card appears to be a more economic choice.
My only other problem? I do not know how to install hardware on a desktop. After a search for cheap cards on newegg (here), I am at a loss as to which configuration will work with my specific computer. Would it be all too difficult to install the video card if I find some handy instructions online?
So, the gist of my question is: what is the better choice? Will the more expensive converter provide reliable/better video, or will the cheaper video card be the better alternative? Or have I got my options all wrong, and if so, are there any other options I'm not thinking of? I basically would like to strike an ideal balance between cost, video quality, and ease of use.
Hivemind, please come to my rescue!
I have a ton of downloaded video content that I'd like to be able to watch on my T.V. However, the videos are on a relatively old computer that only has a VGA output. I recently had the bright idea to go out and buy a VGA to component cable and only later did I discover (thanks to askmetafilter) that the computer must have T.V.-out capability (which, of course, it does not).
After a little more combing through previous askmetafilter posts, I've now arrived at two options: a converter or a new video card. But, which would be a better option?
I've come across two converters, this and this. However, these are just slightly above my budget and an older but capable video card appears to be a more economic choice.
My only other problem? I do not know how to install hardware on a desktop. After a search for cheap cards on newegg (here), I am at a loss as to which configuration will work with my specific computer. Would it be all too difficult to install the video card if I find some handy instructions online?
So, the gist of my question is: what is the better choice? Will the more expensive converter provide reliable/better video, or will the cheaper video card be the better alternative? Or have I got my options all wrong, and if so, are there any other options I'm not thinking of? I basically would like to strike an ideal balance between cost, video quality, and ease of use.
Hivemind, please come to my rescue!
RGB to Component video takes a bit more, namely a VGA to component video transcoder
Read here: http://www1.electronichouse.com/columns/gear/7069.html (scroll down, it's at the bottom).
posted by defcom1 at 11:00 PM on September 9, 2008
Read here: http://www1.electronichouse.com/columns/gear/7069.html (scroll down, it's at the bottom).
posted by defcom1 at 11:00 PM on September 9, 2008
Best answer: I definitely recommend the video card route. if you are REALLY uncomfortable with buying/installing it yourself, you could maybe ask someone you know that is a PC gamer and/or a techie type.
The most important part of buying a video card (other than your requirement of TV-out) is the type of slot that it will fit in. Depending on how old your computer is, this may be PCI, AGP, or PCI express (in order of oldness).
The video card I have on the machine that I am using for a similar purpose has only the S-Video type of connector, but also came with an adaptor to go from S-Video to composite. It's not the best picture quality, but it works.
posted by ArgentCorvid at 6:35 AM on September 10, 2008
The most important part of buying a video card (other than your requirement of TV-out) is the type of slot that it will fit in. Depending on how old your computer is, this may be PCI, AGP, or PCI express (in order of oldness).
The video card I have on the machine that I am using for a similar purpose has only the S-Video type of connector, but also came with an adaptor to go from S-Video to composite. It's not the best picture quality, but it works.
posted by ArgentCorvid at 6:35 AM on September 10, 2008
I'd say a video card with TV out would be your best bet. I've used both ATI and nvidia cards with TV out, and I think nvidia drivers/software offer more flexibility when it comes to adjusting the picture on your tv. If you have a used computer parts store near you, you can most likely pick up an older card up for cheap. If your TV doesn't have S-video, but the card does, you can buy s-video to composite adapters. (Also, don't overlook how you plan to handle the sound).
Other options that may work for you:
DVD player that handles DIVX.
Modded XBOX
posted by Otis at 6:46 AM on September 10, 2008
Other options that may work for you:
DVD player that handles DIVX.
Modded XBOX
posted by Otis at 6:46 AM on September 10, 2008
This thread is closed to new comments.
To your tv can easily be accomplished with a cheap video card which supports s-video/composite. It's not the nicest picture though, you will get 640x480 looking ok, 800x600 or 1024x768 seem to work, though it's not very sharp.
Installing a new video card is very very simple. Open PC (After turning PC OFF!), take out old video card, insert new card. Plug in monitor to new card. Boot windows. It may look ok, may not. Go to manufacturer's or Nvidia or ATI website. Grab newest drivers for your card. Install drivers.
I recommend an nvidia or ati based card (doesn't matter who actually makes it). Then get the drivers which support TV out in their options.
I don't know about ouputting component via the breakout cable... hopefully somebody else does, I will keep looking!
posted by defcom1 at 10:52 PM on September 9, 2008 [1 favorite]