Use vga splitter/booster for PC to LCD?

[tyler711]

I'm a computer nerd, but relatively new to HT. We just bought a new sony 40" LCD with VGA input (haven't gotten it yet, but my friend has the same one so I've messed with it).

My problem is this: I would like to connect my computer to my DTV so I can play DVDs, movies, music, etc over the tv. I have 2 monitors on my computer. I have a 25' VGA extension wire, but by testing it on my computer monitors, I can see that it clearly causes ghosting and poor quality. It is an older cable of unknown quality, but seems very hefty and high quality by looking at and holding it.

I was looking at a product like this, a VGA splitter/signal booster.

My seconday monitor (15" lcd), when I set the resolution to 1360x768 (DTV native resolution) can still display the picture, only deformed. I was thinking I could use my primary monitor as usual, then split the secondary monitor signal between the DTV and the 15" monitor. When I wanted to use the TV, I could crank up the resolution, but still be able to see a distorted picture on my monitor so I could see what is on the TV.

Would that splitter successfully boost the signal to travel over a 25' vga cable? This seems easier that buying a very high quality VGA cable and possibly a signal booster, as well as having to go behind the PC and switch the montor cables every time I want to use the tv.

Sorry about the book, just want some clear opinions before I start dishing out precious bucks (I'm a high school kid, I can't afford all this!)

Tyler

 

[BMXTRIX]

My opinion?

It is in the cable.

A decent VGA cable won't give you issues and it sounds to me like you are not having a problem with a poor or weak signal. Most PCs give out a VGA signal that can travel 50+ feet with no issues at all. So, it really, truly, sounds like a cheap cable causing you headaches.

I would spend 50 bucks on a better cable long before buying the distribution amplifier (D/A) you are looking at.

Then, if you still had an issue, I would look at getting a decent D/A from a company like Extron who has been in the pro signal distrubtion arena for years. Some great used stuff from them on eBay all the time. Business closes up - look, cheap pro equipment!

 

[tyler711]

Thanks. I guess I'll go with a better cable. Could you recommend a decent 25' cable that I could use? Or I could get a 15' to go with the 10' Belkin I have (which has no visible signal loss). Any cables on amazon or ebay that you've had good luck with? I don't want to have to return it if it is not of ample quality.

tyler

 

[jaxvon]

Here ya go: http://www.impactacoustics.com/product.asp?cat_id=1205&sku=09461

They should also have a discount through that link for you being an Audioholics member. If they don't then give them a call so you can get the discount! I think it's 20% on video cables.

 

[tyler711]

Thank you sir! I can't wait for this tv to come....

I'll order a male to female though, but would I lose quality using the cheaper 5 foot vga cable that comes with the TV at the end of the extension?

 

[jaxvon]

Perhaps. If you need more length, then just order the longer length from Impact Acoustics. The less connections there are, the less points of possible failure.

 

[tyler711]

Alright, I'll order the male to male then. I just thought an extension could be used in the future if I needed it, but if the situation arises, I could just buy a gender changer. Hopefully I will have this TV for many years, though.