Watching HD on your PC
Well we already know that computers aren’t ready for proper new format HD video yet, but there are still plenty of ways to check out the improved clarity of HDTV without splashing out on an HD Ready TV by using your computer instead. However, watching HDTV content is pretty system intensive so you’ll need to make sure your machine is up to it. About the minimum spec you’ll need is an iMac G4 (although G3 users can use the latest Quicktime) or a Windows 2000/XP PC with a 2.0GHz CPU, 256MB RAM and a 64MB video card. Screen-wise you’ll need a display that is capable of 1024 x 768 resolution. This delivers a better than standard definition picture but isn't really true HD.
Ideally though you’ll need something a bit better to enjoy the full benefits of HD downloads: a screen with a resolution of 1600 x 1200 (now one of the most common) will let you enjoy up to 720p videos, but you’ll have to invest in a something widescreen (plamsa/LCD) to go up to 1080p properly. PC specs should really be in the region of: Windows XP powered by a 2.4GHz CPU, 512MB RAM and a 128MB graphics card.
