Buying a computer system/advise on buying a new laptop

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Expert: - 1/7/2010


Question
I am thinking of buying a laptop that comes with a HDMI port, but havent decided on which one yet.  I would like to connect the laptop to my current Sony LCD TV (HDMI port) to view videos that I have downloaded from the internet.  Is it possible to do so directly or do I need special software for this purpose?  Please advise.  Thank You.  

Answer
If you have a laptop with an HDMI output (or any other form of compatible video output), you don't need special software beyond the graphics drivers (Which are included with the system, and updates are free from the chipset manufacturer (be it Intel, nVidia, or AMD)). If there isn't any special requirement beyond the HDMI output, I would simply look for models with that feature, its a feature likely to be found on upper mid-range systems, which means the rest of the hardware should be above and beyond your requirements.

If you have further questions, feel free to ask.

-bob

Buying a computer system

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Bobbert

Expertise

I have nearly two decades of experience in IT, computer repair, and related fields and will attempt to provide the most solid, brand-agnostic advice when it comes time to purchase a new computer, or upgrade an existing machine. I can answer anything from the seemingly basic to the downright complicated - and will do my best to provide this information in a clear and concise manner.

Experience

I have been an enthusiast of PC's for many years, and can answer questions about the purchase/use of a new computer or the purchase, installation, and use of upgrades for existing computers. There probably isn't a whole lot related to the home computer that I haven't seen over the years.

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15+ years of experience

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