27 inch Gateway Destination Monitor as 2nd Monitor

[apoppin]

I really need some advice about building a home theater/gaming system.

I am looking at a refurbished (Grade A) 27 inch Gateway Destination Monitor for really cheap as a SECOND monitor for gaming and DVDs. The resolution is only 600x800 so it wouldn't be good for general computing or graphics. Still it is a lot better than any (normal) 27" TV I could buy (for a lot less money).

Here's my problem - I only have a Radeon 64 VIVO (which does NOT support dual monitors). TV out would not be an option since the monitor is only SVGA. . . .

What's the best (cheapest) way to go?

1) Is there a switching box that allows for 2 monitors to be hooked up to one computer?

2) What about a cheap PCI video card?

3) To watch Television, would I need a TV tuner card?

 

[ArkAoss]

well a cheap pci, would be nice, and this being in general hardware would be even better,
And about the tv tuning. unless the destination, has a tuner built in, you'ld need a pci capable tv out card, that wouldn't mind playing second fiddle ( I have an ATI AIW pci, but it will not be the secondary video card, and I'm not sure if my Voodoo3 agp will allow itself to be the low one either. (not that I want to loose it's 3d capabilities.

 

[tontod]

Yeah, you can pick up a switchbox to use both monitors. This site has some KVM switchboxes.

 

[loup garou]

Doesn't the Destination Monitor have a built-in TV tuner? If not, you might have a bit of a hard time using a PCI card with it as a second monitor. When I tried using a PCI card/monitor combo for a secondary display, I couldn't use it for DVD playback or TV with my TV tuner because it didn't support overlay. I don't know if this is a problem with all PCI cards as secondary displays, or just the combo I was using. Maybe someone else can give you a definitive answer.

Just some words of warning.

Good Luck!

 

[apoppin]

<< . . . and this being in general hardware would be even better,>>

Thanks, ArkAoss. It IS in General Hardware. However, the guys in OT are very very knowledgeable about home theater and often do not visit the GH Forum.

This is not JUST a technical question - it is an &quot;idea&quot; of getting into High(er) Definition TV for much cheaper.

werk, the Destination Monitor does NOT have a TV Tuner built in. I would also need to get a PC TV tuner (I think - I can't imagine using my VCR in combo with my TV out on the Radeon 64 VIVO since the Monitor input is only SVGA).

Besides, I am desperate for quick info. I have to make a decision very quickly.

Thanks for your replies and interest.

tontod, thanks for the link!

 

[apoppin]

From reading your posts here and in General, I decided it was a good idea and ordered a 27 inch refurbished Grade A Gateway Destination Monitor for $319 (plus tax).

Now my biggest problem will be getting it in my car (might have to take it out of the box or stash it in the trunk).

I will post and let you guys know how it works as a second monitor.

If you see any flaws in my plan - PLEASE let me know. I can back out of the deal without penalty BEFORE tomorrow.

Thanks.