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asodamiac · Dec 25, 2007, 11:34 PM

Hey guys, I've been thinking about getting a Dell 3007WFP-HC monitor sometime next year (just waiting for the iMac's to refresh). I've read that the monitor only had 1 HDMI port and 1 DVI port. I'm assuming that I'll be connecting with the monitor to the iMac through the DVI port and so that should leave the HDMI port free for an XBOX 360 right?

If I am able to connect the iMac and XBOX 360 to the monitor in this way, how would I switch between the iMac and the XBOX 360? Are there different "settings" on the monitor like a TV that has different input options? Do I need a certain adaptor to switch between the iMac and the XBOX?

And has anyone used the 3007WFP-HC to use with consoles? How was your experience?

Thanks,

Jason

mduell · Dec 26, 2007, 12:37 AM

Yes, if you connect the Mac via DVI that will leave the HDMI port open. There's a button on the monitor to switch between inputs, just like on a TV.

Even an Xbox 360 without HDMI will work with the Dell WFP monitors, since they also have component inputs. Note also the 3008WFP was just released, with DisplayPort (the next generation interface for computers and monitors) support.

chefpastry · Dec 26, 2007, 01:28 AM

I have a 3007WFP-HC. There is only one Dual-Link DVI port and nothing else. I don't know of any easy way to connect an Xbox 360.

Dell is supposed to be introducing a new 30" monitor with much more inputs that you will be able to use with an Xbox 360. Gateway has one available now with all sorts of inputs, too.

ajprice · Dec 26, 2007, 05:38 PM

Dell 2407 - DVI, VGA, Component, Composite, S-Video.

Xbox 360 works just fine.

Cadaver · Dec 26, 2007, 08:12 PM

The iMac, AFAIK, wont drive a 30" display at native resolution. I do not think the iMac's mini-DVI port supports a dual-link connection.

mduell · Dec 27, 2007, 10:35 AM

Originally Posted by Cadaver

The iMac, AFAIK, wont drive a 30" display at native resolution. I do not think the iMac's mini-DVI port supports a dual-link connection.

You're right, but unlike the 30" ACD, the 30" Dell will accept 1920x1200 and display it natively or stretched (your choice).

ajprice · Dec 27, 2007, 12:38 PM

Why do you want a 30" if you're not able to use its resolution?

If you want 1920x1200, get a 24" screen, if you want a 30" screen, have a look at an LCD TV. A 30" screen without the machine to run it at full resolution is a waste.

Andhee · Dec 27, 2007, 02:36 PM

I think you should go for a HD projector if you're wanting to do some insane gaming, and your imac would most probably be able to plug itself into that. It'll be more fun having a 60" screen anyway ;p

Originally Posted by ajprice

Dell 2407 - DVI, VGA, Component, Composite, S-Video. Xbox 360 works just fine.

I have one of those, but 20inch! Woo for us!

Bwa · Dec 28, 2007, 09:35 PM

Originally Posted by ajprice

Why do you want a 30" if you're not able to use its resolution?

If you want 1920x1200, get a 24" screen, if you want a 30" screen, have a look at an LCD TV. A 30" screen without the machine to run it at full resolution is a waste.

Or he could buy something like the 28" ViewSonic - 1920x1200 for ~$650.

asodamiac · Dec 29, 2007, 07:09 PM

Sorry guys, I was gone for a while.

I didn't know the iMac is unable to run a 30" display at native resolution. Now I'll have to re-think things. Hmm...

asodamiac · Dec 29, 2007, 07:21 PM

Maybe I'll go with a MBP. That can run a 30" screen at full potential, but I really don't need another laptop... Decisions decisions!

ajprice · Jan 1, 2008, 11:28 AM

Well we can't tell you what Mac to get, but if you want to plug an Xbox 360 into an external display with it, the biggest resolution an Xbox 360 can display is 1080p, which is 1920x1080 and would be either 1 to 1 with a slight letterbox or slightly stretched to 1200 high on a 1920x1200 screen, like it is on my Dell. Whats your main reason for getting a 30"?