Q for the computer dudes...
 

Here's the deal, I was originally thinking about buying a laptop, so I wouldn't have to keep moving from the family room to the office to check mail, but I don't like the added $$ involved. Tell me if you think this will work: Would I be able to run an s-video cable from my current video card to my LCD TV and view what's on my computer that way? In addition, I would need to be able to have a wireless keyboard and mouse that will reach approx. 20 feet. Right now I just have the standard wireless setup that only reaches 6-8 feet I believe. Maybe if I hooked up a BT keyboard/mouse setup?

Thoughts...

As long as the distance wasn't too far, it should work. I had my PC connected that way for a while. I used a MS wireless KB/mouse combo without an issue. I put the receiver on top of the TV. I'd probably use BT if I did it again.

Cingular 8125 phone, get's all your e-mail right on it and you don't have to leave the couch. :)

Haha.

Your solution may work but distance is going to be an issue I think, unless your office and family room are really close together. Give it a shot at least, beats blowing 3G's on a laptop.

get yourself a bberry and spare yourself the headache of all that nonsense.

Not sure that it's really "nonsense". Here's another side benefit; I have aquarium 3-D as a screensaver on my computer, and I could pipe that over to the TV and have a 60" Aquarium in my family room ;)

I have an aquarium screensaver as well. It looks awesome on 60".

"stay away from the nonsense" to an IT guy, like myself, means go with the simplest solution that will fit your needs so taht you don't spend more time suporting the solution than enjoying it... no insult intended :)

Actually, I like to have both but that is because I also travel. Desktop stays in office for prolonged use, etc. editing papers, using excel, etc......

Got laptop for travel, but use it alot in family room for quick checking of e-mail and quick browsing.....my wife will see something on TV and wants me to look it up on the internet, etc. Besides, you don't need to spend $3K on a laptop just for internet browsing/e-mail (we know all you going to do is moderate xoutpost.com to death :) )

However, I do live in a 2-story house and office and family room is far away from each other....since you do have the option, you could run a S-Video cable, but I would try that first to see if you the video resolution is acceptable.....I have used S-Video cable from my laptop to my friend's 50" Sony Plasma screen and still not as clear as a dedicated LCD monitor or current laptop screen.


The Bluetooth mouse/keyboard is doable.

Picture please ;)

Correct me if I'm wrong, but this seems like a pretty "simple sloution". One s-cable + a BT KB/Mouse. Buying a Blackberry would require an expensive initial outlay for the unit + a monthly expense in addition to my current cell bill. Replacing existing cell phone is not an option because my current Moto E815 snaps into my X5 ;)