Thread: How can you tell if your computer supports a high definition monitor?

I have an old computer. It is a 2001 gateway and it runs windows xp, and I was thinking about buying a hd monitor for it. Would this computer support the monitor? Or maybe could I hook it up to a hdtv? How can I find out if they are compatible?

High-definition means at least 1280x720, or 1024x768 (both are considered minimum for 720p). For about two decades now, we've readily had "high-definition" monitors available.

What you mean is a "full-HD" monitor, one with 1920x1080 or higher resolution.

Your computer should be able to handle it; it probably only has a VGA output, since DVI was still very new in 2001. Most new computer monitors have both DVI and VGA inputs, or HDMI and VGA. Just plug a VGA cable into your monitor and computer. Then in the Display Settings, change your resolution to 1920x1080 or 1920x1200, whichever is the resolution of your monitor.

If those options aren't available, then you might need to update your graphics drivers: look up the model number of your graphics card on the manufacturer's website and they should have a link to download the new drivers.