How can I convert the rca video out or s-video out of my satellite receiver to rgb on my lcd monitor?

Answer 1

Not recommended! Average standard NTSC broadcasts have a maximum resolution ratio of 500 lines. To convert composite video signal to “computer” would require an up-converter. Additionally, every time a signal is processed (converted) some information is lost, thus reducing the useable picture display quality. It’s not cheap to up-convert anyway. To compare the difference between NTSC and LCD, one must be familiar with what is referred to as device Native Resolution.


Native Resolutions:

NTSC Broadcast Native Resolution = 500 lines

LCD Native Resolutions
All LCD screens can actually display only a single given resolution referred to as the native resolution. This is the physically number of horizontal and vertical pixels that make up the LCD matrix of the display. Setting a computer display to a resolution lower than this resolution will either cause the monitor to use a reduced visible area of the screen or it will have to do extrapolation. This extrapolation attempts to blend multiple pixels together to produce a similar image to what you would see if the monitor were to display it at the given resolution but it can result in fuzzy images.
Here are some of the common native resolutions found in LCD monitors:
• 14-15": 1024x768 (XGA)
• 17-19": 1280x1024 (SXGA)
• 20"+: 1600x1200 (UXGA)
• 19” (Widescreen): 1440x900 (WXGA+)
• 20” (Widescreen): 1680x1050 (WSXGA+)
• 24” (Widescreen): 1920x1200 (WUXGA)
• 30” (Widescreen): 2560x1600

Answer 2

There's no doubt about it. S-Video would be better. If you have a really top notch RCA cord, then perhaps the difference wouldn't be overly noticeable. But almost certainly the picture will be heaps clearer, sharper and brighter. Just remember that the S-Video cord does not transmit sound, so you'll still need the RCA cord.

Answer 3

You can get such a device, but it is expensive, and it will not improve the picture quality. If your LCD monitor has no s-video or composite input, but has DVI, it may be easier to find an s-video to DVI adaptor (but still it's expensive).

See http://www.hdtvsupply.com/svideotorgbhv.html
http://search.store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/nsearch?catalog=yhst-25967117716530&query=s-video+to+DVI&Go.x=19&Go.y=13&Go=search

Answer 4

Woudnt matter, picture will probebly look worse. S-Video is better then regular RCA Video.