How to Use Your LCD TV as a Video Monitor

Unlike a plasma television that offers the danger of burn-in, you can learn how to use you LCD TV as a video monitor. It makes for a clear and crisp picture to go with yoru computer or video games. The versatility of an LCD TV is perhaps what makes it most attractive to many buyers. A few tips on how to use your LCD TV as a video monitor will help you see just how great an LCD television can be in your home.

LCD screens actually have their roots in computer monitors. The wild success of LCD computer screens has led to the development of larger screens to use as television sets. Many of the characteristics are the same, but in order to compete with plasma, the televisions have actually developed higher quality pictures in the last couple of years.

A word of advice, though: if you are planning to use your LCD just as a computer screen, consider actually buying an LCD monitor. If you do not, you will end up paying for a tuner, AV inputs, and other television features that you don't need. On the other hand, if you are gaming on your LCD screen, a big 30 inch screen can be impressive when you show it off to your gaming buddies.

The first step in learning how to use your LCD TV as a video monitor is making sure you have the right television. In order to make the switch from TV viewing to monitor for your computer or games, your television needs to have a VGA or other options for connection to a PC or gaming system. If it does not, then you are going to be very disappointed.

Make sure your computer is near your LCD television. You do not want to have to run cables and wires all over the house to accommodate your computer usage. Additionally, it needs to be close enough that your view of the monitor will actually be reasonable when using the computer. You would be surprised at how many people say they want to use the LCD screen for their computer monitor, but forget to put the computer near the television.

Next, in learning how to use your LCD TV as a video monitor, you need to make sure you have all wires and cables run that you need so you can switch easily. Run cables through the walls or conduit to both your computer and the cable input for your home. That way when you decide to switch your LCD screen between television and computer use it will be smooth. If you are really savvy, you can also set it up so that a switch or channel change will move you from computer or video monitor to television screen without a lot of work.

Learning how to use your LCD TV as a video monitor is valuable. Since the picture is so clear and well contrasted, you will reduce eye fatigue and squinting headaches brought about by traditional monitors. Just make sure you have the right television and are prepared. Then, you will be all set for dual use of your LCD TV.