How can I get video from my PC to my TV?

[RoConno]

I have a Panasonic TH50PX75U Plasma HDTV and a Onkyo TXSR605 A/V receiver, and I would like to stream video from my desktop PC or my Gateway T6345-U Laptop to the TV. My Laptop has a VGA output port, not an HDMI like the documentation states, and my old desktop does not have any extra output ports for video or audio. It's an old home built PC with an ECS RS-400A MB. I do have a wireless router, but none of my home theater equipment has wireless or Ethernet capability. I can't figure out how I would go about doing this or what additional hard/software I would need to get the job done. Would someone please make some suggestions as to how I can accomplish this?
Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

 

[sivart]

I would buy a $30 video card with HDMI for the old desktop and move it next to the TV.

 

[Chess]

What sivart said is probably the easiest... Especially if you arent worried about quality or streaming of 1080p

 

[kalrith]

What are the rest of your desktop specs? What other sources do you have connected to the TV? What files are you trying to play, and what resolution are they?

If your desktop is decent enough, then you'll probably be fine if you get a 4550 video card or better. When they go on a good sale, they can be had for $18 after mail-in rebate and cash back (I know, because I recently bought one ).

 

[Sureshot324]

A PS3 or xbox 360 can do a good job of this if you don't want to always have to keep plugging your pc directly into the tv.

 

[B00giE]

Get the radeon and connect it to your receiver via HDMI. If you have HDMI handshake issues just connect it directly to the TV. It's nice running it through the receiver though because that way you can use one remote (instead of having to switch video inputs with the TV remote when you want to use your HTPC)

 

[SphinxnihpS]

PS3 + PS3 Media Server ftw

 

[sivart]

PS3 + PS3 Media Server ftw

True, but then you have to have another PC running 24/7 (or at least remember to boot it when you want to watch through the PS3)

Plus, wireless will give you issues with HD material and PS3 media server, if you can do it wired, great.

 

[s44]

Yup, either convert the desktop to HTPC with a 4xxx/5xxx/Geforce210/GT220 or get a console as a streaming device.

 

[Tristicus]

I'd go the HTPC way.