Computer help about monitors?

Help With Computer Monitors?

• Hello, First let me thank you for visiting my question. I Am wondering if an HD LCD computer monitor would be compatible with my computer that does not output hd graphics. I want to get an hd monitor so i can use it for HD movies and Xbox, but i don't know if my computer will work on it. I was imagining that there would be a square image of the computer os with two empty spaces on either side, kind of like when you watch Standard definition video on your hd tv at home. Thanks for the help!

• Answer:

  Honestly, it all depends on what type of connection your computer supports. Almost every computer supports VGA connections, and most monitors have this type of connection. If you have a graphics card that is post 2004, you will likely also have a DVI connection, which is the primary type of connector for modern monitors. Finally, some monitors use a connection type called HDMI. This is common on televisions, and one of my monitors have it, but you need a very modern and fairly high end graphics card in order to have this connector at your disposal. Although I am not 100% sure, you should be able to use the monitor, but perhaps not at its optimal resolution or display. Chances are, however, that if you bought your computer within the past 5 years, you shouldn't have any problems with modern monitors. In the end, it all comes down to if you physically have the ports. Look at each of the pictures and compare them to what is on the back of your computer. the monitor should list what it supports. VGA / DSUB: (WARNING: This connection looks very similar to a serial port. be sure to count the holes.) http://www.tvone.com/images/1t-vga-cattx-rear.jpg DVI: http://www.atmarkit.co.jp/fsys/cableconnect/05disp_video/03dvi_d-box-l.jpg HDMI: http://a248.e.akamai.net/pix.crutchfield.com/ca/learningcenter/home/HDMI-jack-large.jpg