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    t61p, is its vga port an input or output?

    Discussion in 'Lenovo' started by derlin, Oct 24, 2008.

  1. derlin

    derlin Notebook Consultant

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    Hey guys,

    I'm trying to figure out if my VGA port on my t61p is an input or output. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

    Also, I'm trying to use my laptop's lcd monitor as a monitor for my ps3 because I don't have a tv to go along with it. (I know this question may as well go in the gaming section, but i thought i might ask anyways.)

    Comment's on doing this? I've heard mixed reviews about video quality.


    Thanks guys!
     
    derlin, Oct 24, 2008
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  2. jonlumpkin

    jonlumpkin NBR Transmogrifier

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    The VGA port is an OUTPUT. It is generally impossible to drive a laptop LCD with an external source (e.g. PS3) because they don't have the necessary scalers/graphics processors built in.

    I would recommend that you get a 20"-24" LCD with both a VGA and a DVI/HDMI input. You can connect your T61p to the VGA port for an external and/or mutli-monitor setup, and the PS3 to the DVI/HDMI input and then switch between them with the monitor. It is very important that you get a monitor that is HDCP COMPLIANT, otherwise the PS3 will refuse to output to that monitor. This is probably the best solution for you.

    You should be able to find a decent 20" LCD for ≈$200, and a 24" LCD for ≈$350. You may want to look for a model with speakers as well to simplify the solution (you may need an RCA to 1/8" stereo cable and/or a DVI to HDMI adapter for this to work).
     
    jonlumpkin, Oct 24, 2008
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  3. derlin

    derlin Notebook Consultant

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    thank you so much, as for getting a new monitor...i may have to look into getting a job b4 that happens.

    Thank you for your help though!
     
    derlin, Oct 24, 2008
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  4. jonlumpkin

    jonlumpkin NBR Transmogrifier

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    The other possible option is to get a TV tuner card. If you get one with A/V inputs you can plug your PS3 into your T61P. However, this will still likely set you back $100, will only be of average quality (standard def only, upscaled by software), and won't give you the flexibility that an external monitor would give you.
     
    jonlumpkin, Oct 24, 2008
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  5. AznRacerNSX

    AznRacerNSX Notebook Evangelist

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    honestly save up for a 24 inch or greater monitor... i repeat 24 inch or greater.

    Also make sure it has 1:1 Pixel mapping because 1080p is 1920 x1080 where as... 24 inch monitor or greater does 1920 x 1200 or greater...

    i prefer playing my ps3 on 24 inch mon.than 46 inch 1080p tv.... you can sit so much closer!
     
    AznRacerNSX, Oct 24, 2008
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