TV Resolutions and refresh rates

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Satch

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#22543 31-May-2008 11:11

I've got a HTPC running into my Sony Bravia via HDMI. The resolution of my Bravia is 1366 x 768.

I've currently got it running at 1280 x 720 @ 50Hz, but text outside of Vista Media Centre is less than ideal.

The closest resolution via display properties on my HTPC is 1360 x 768. But when I chose this resolution, the only refresh rates available are 25, 29, and 30Hz. And when I do change to this resolution, I get a weird flashing type effect when changing between the desktop and Vista Media Centre, and for some reason my screensaver stops displaying my photo slideshow.

What should I be running things at to get the most optimal display in VMC and on my desktop when browsing the net etc? I do not play games so this is not a consideration (if it even makes a difference...)

eXDee

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#134598 31-May-2008 13:47

What is the video card?

Even our crappy ATI 9200SE can output 1366x768 via VGA if you override it in the drivers.

Are yours up to date?

Satch

1985 posts

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#134605 31-May-2008 14:49

I've got a 8500GT with the latest Nvidia drivers.

gkar

2 posts

Wannabe Geek

#134902 2-Jun-2008 12:34

What should I be running things at to get the most optimal display in VMC and on my desktop when browsing the net etc? I do not play games so this is not a consideration (if it even makes a difference...)

That is why I have declined upgrading to an LCDTV display to date. The issues with most displays, unless you are talking X/D-Series Bravias, F8 (I think) in the Samsungs etc. don't allow a user to operate the TV with a 1:1 pixel map. Which means just that you are attempting to use it outside it's native resolution (think what it's like using a PC LCD monitor off it's native res & how poor the test definition is in comparison to it's native one.

It gets even murkier when you consider some panels display 1:1 pixel mapping over VGA but not HDMI & attempting to get an answer out of the manufacturers is near impossible. I gave up.

I haven't found any means to workaround this issue, I'm afraid.

Is the text that bad to read? Or is it just out of focus & legible (ie. will it suffice over the long term)? I am thinking of buying a 37" display off Dick Smiths special price but am hesitant about the 1:1 issues.

sbiddle

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#134904 2-Jun-2008 12:52

This problem should hopefully go away as we move towards full HD panels.

The real problem is that 1366x678 is a "hack" when it comes to resolutions. It is not true 16:9 and requires scaling inside the TV.

Virtually all TV's will give you 1:1 pixel mapping over VGA and for many people VGA is the simplest and best way of getting your PC into your TV screen. Manufacturers need to get a lot smarter - HDMI should be a true plug and play solution that gives you a perfect picture but unfortunately it's far from..:-(

gkar

2 posts

Wannabe Geek

#134909 2-Jun-2008 13:00

@ sbiddle,

Man you're quick. I was coming back with a more defined expanation other than my dumbed-down metaphor. From one of you're other posts, actually.

http://pixelmapping.wikispaces.com/Pixel+mapping+explained

sbiddle

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#134914 2-Jun-2008 13:22

I've just been reading this month's Skywatch - it's good to see even Sky TV don't understand HD! They have a column that lists the minimum requirements for a HDTV and one is "Screen Resolution 1366x768 pixels minimum or 1920 x 1080 pixels".

What a shame all those people with 1280x768 panels will think their TV can't do HD!

1gkar

722 posts

Ultimate Geek

#134973 2-Jun-2008 16:39

I've just been reading this month's Skywatch - it's good to see even Sky TV don't understand HD! They have a column that lists the minimum requirements for a HDTV and one is "Screen Resolution 1366x768 pixels minimum or 1920 x 1080 pixels"...

What else would you expect from a company that edits a highlights' package from this year's best sports result for a Kiwi: the Indy500 & edits out two of the most dramatic events of the race. I'm referring to Danica Patrick's exit from the race & Scott Dixon's pitcrew getting him out in 1st position at the final round of pitstops. Duh!

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