A friend of mine just bought an HD TV and I do all his computer tech support as it is, so I'm looking for a way by which he can play video files directly on the TV (no DVD/disc preferentially). I know there are DVD players that are "DiVX compatible" but most of my stuff is HD .mkv content, and we'll both be using the TV, but when I'm not around I need the /simplest/ way for him to watch what he wants.<br>
<br>The way I see it:<br><br>a) He has a laptop (brand new, we bought it about a week ago), and of course they only have the VGA input so would this make sense to pop files onto the laptop and do a TV OUT to watch? Wouldn't a VGA->HDMI connection cut quality? I am just guessing this isn't the /optimal/ method, but I could be wrong.<br>
<br>b) Preferred solution: A simple device I can purchase that will store video files and allow for him to directly plug his TV in via HDMI, select the video file desired and watch it, bada boom bada bang?<br><br>I admit I have barely glanced at threads on the list pertaining to ION, atom, etc. frontends and if any of these are reasonably priced ($100-$250 range?) and can do what I'm asking here, then great, appreciate any recommendations.<br>
<br>P.S. It's fine if the device runs via linux, I can surely set up everything and maintain it if need be, but of course the MAIN thing here is that the interface and viewing experience is pretty simple. I don't know if this is getting into "build a myth BE/FE" territory or not, though I'd rather avoid that as again, this guy needs coaching on how to select the right disc with his multi-disc receiver, heh...<br>
<br><br>Thanks fellas<br>Bob<br>