I just got a 48 inch 1080p hdtv and I am using it as my main monitor . My question is do any of you use your tv as a monitor ? It is so much better than using a normal sized display .
It's probably fine for casual use but HDTV's are made for video and are generally a poor choice for a monitor. The pixel density on that 48" is very low and if you're planning to sit close then the eye fatigue would be pretty bad.
I have a 32" 1080p TV that sees occasional use as a backup monitor. It works well, but I agree with blueroom in that I find it is best when used at a distance of three or four feet.