New TV with wireless connection

by Joe
(Calgary,CA)

I am looking to purchase a new TV. I haven't watched TV for about 10 yrs although I use computers a bit. I am looking for a TV which can connect with my computers - preferably in wireless mode.

I want to play movies on my computer and use the TV screen as the monitor. I don't want to purchase extra speakers at this point so the TV should have good inbuilt speakers.

What are my options? Please advise.

Thanks

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Hi

A simple question, but not such a simple answer.

Wireless connections to TVs are still relatively new and they may not always provide the capability you require.

I'll summarise a few points which may point you in the right direction.

1. Many new TVs offer wireless connectivity to your local network. For example, the Panasonic VIERA TC-P50G25 plasma TV or the Samsung UN46B8000 LED TV (optional adapter required). However, this is mainly for connecting the TV to your internet connection for updates and some limited internet-based features.

2. To stream movies from your PC to the TV, there is a relatively new standard called DLNA. If the TV supports DLNA, you can setup your PC as a DLNA server and your TV will be able to find and play files from your PC. The two TVs mentioned above can do this - and many newer models will support this.

3. Another way to play content from your PC on your TV is to use Windows Media Center and a Windows Media Extender. For example, an Xbox360 can be used as a wireless extender and the Toshiba 46UX600U 46-Inch 1080p 120 Hz LED HDTV has built-in extender functionality that works directly with Windows 7.

4. There are also various products like the Atlona AT-HDAIR Wireless Adapter which can send your laptop screen to any HDTV using wireless technology.

5. Wireless networks can struggle to transfer high-definition data - therefore HD material may not play back very well.

6. The easiest (and most reliable) way to send your laptop screen to your TV is to use a cable with a dedicated PC input or HDMI port on the back of the TV.

Sorry this is a bit brief, but this is a large subject! Which reminds me, I think I need to write some guides on this.

Hope that helps to make things a little clearer.

All the best.

Paul (Site Editor)

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