New iMac does 720p or 1080i via VGA ?

[netnut]

I am considering switching from an HP running MCE 2005 to an iMac for my Media Center. I don't need a DVR function but do need HD o/p.

I have a SONY VPL-VW10HT front projector that accepts a 5RGB/VGA input and will do 720p and/or 1080i if fed that signal via VGA. It lacks DVI.

I went to the Apple Store and asked if the low-end iMac ATI adapter can output 720p/1080i and the sales guy first said no, you need an HD tuner (!) and then said yes, "since 720 is less than 800 and it can do 800" (!!).

So before I plonk down a grand I wanted to know if I could drive the external projector while still using the attached display in its native resolution.

A second but less important question is I assume it will play ripped Network mounted DVD's ?

thanks!

Netnut
Mac Newbie, own one MAC mini/G4

 

[Grimace]

Sorta. The DVI (not VGA) out on the iMac will do "up to" its native resolution. The supported resolutions of the Sony are your limitation.

When connected, the iMac will see what resolutions the secondary display supports. You just have to turn off mirroring.

 

[paetrick]

I am considering switching from an HP running MCE 2005 to an iMac for my Media Center. I don't need a DVR function but do need HD o/p.

I have a SONY VPL-VW10HT front projector that accepts a 5RGB/VGA input and will do 720p and/or 1080i if fed that signal via VGA. It lacks DVI.

I went to the Apple Store and asked if the low-end iMac ATI adapter can output 720p/1080i and the sales guy first said no, you need an HD tuner (!) and then said yes, "since 720 is less than 800 and it can do 800" (!!).

So before I plonk down a grand I wanted to know if I could drive the external projector while still using the attached display in its native resolution.

A second but less important question is I assume it will play ripped Network mounted DVD's ?

thanks!

Netnut
Mac Newbie, own one MAC mini/G4

With the specs of the new imac, you will be able to run 1080p material without a problem. Just connect trough the mini-dvi and if your hd tv supports 1080p it will play it at full resolution, else just 720p or 1080i. But the computer sure can handle it !!

 

[netnut]

With the specs of the new imac, you will be able to run 1080p material without a problem. Just connect trough the mini-dvi and if your hd tv supports 1080p it will play it at full resolution, else just 720p or 1080i. But the computer sure can handle it !!

Just want to make sure that with the mini-DVI to VGA converter, the adapter will output 720p and/or 1080i. ATI adapters using this chipset do support these resolutions on PC's.

My projector (SONY 10HT) does not support querying by the adapter, so the resolution will need to be forced on the adapter.

Netnut