I have the Samsung HLR6178 DLP model that can display true 1080P via the VGA port.

My plan is to buy or build a computer to connect to my DLP for the sole purpose of viewing true 1080P content via WMVHD or QuickTimeHD or Divx etc..

I really dont know much about computers so I just dont know what I will need or how much it will cost. I need enough power so that it will play 1080P with ease, no skipping or freezing.

Is this something I could do in the $500-$600 range or no?

Thanks for the help guys.

Are you absolutely sure that the Samsung can display 1080P through the VGA port reliably? When I was following the Samsung and Sony threads over at AVS, there seemed to be some question as to whether it would really work reliably. Some were able to get it to work and others had all sorts of problems.

I would suggest that you go over to the AVS Forum and do a key word search on some of the Samsung TV threads. Some of those threads are hundreds of pages long.

Good luck to you.

ya im pretty sure the 6178 model hasnt had any problems. i believe the 6168 is the one that had the problems.

If you do a google search for HTPC, you will find a lot of info for building one. As for the cost, that depends on what hardware you decide upon. You will need to do some research as there is no simple ansewr to your question as for me telling you to do a..b...c...and you will have an HTPC up and running smoothly.

You can build a HTPC in the $600 range, but most likely it won't fit your requirments for performance. If your not computer savy, there are lots of online etailers that can provide decent systems starting around $1,000 and higher.

If you google "HTPC" or "media center pc" or "home theater computer" etc.... you will find lots of hits. http://www.ecollegepc.com is an example of a company that makes good Media Center pc's at had to match prices that are customizable.

Most likely I'll build my own, but I've built pc's for years so it is pretty easy for me. HP makes some decent media center pc's now, but are a bit pricey.