HDTV Readability

[whatlifeforme]

I am using an HDTV with my macbook in my dorms... at uni. it is not very readable, though.

1) Cannot Change Resolution (is this not possible with TV's?)
2) Can Only Change Text Size in Browser

How would I change the text size of the menu, etc?

Besides for multimedia usage, it seems just about impossible to use an HDTV for a display - particularly when viewing from a distance.

 

[GGJstudios]

A HDTV isn't going to have as high a resolution as a computer display, so text will be fuzzier on the TV.

 

[obsidian1200]

A HDTV isn't going to have as high a resolution as a computer display, so text will be fuzzier on the TV.

Not entirely true. The 21.5" iMacs have a 1080p (or 1920x1080) resolution, just like 1080p HDTVs.

And yes, to the OP, you can change the resolution to fit the maximum resolution supported by the TV. Assuming your HDTV is 1080p, the 1080p (or 1920x1080 in computer resolution) should be available, and the macbook should automatically use this resolution when you plug it it. If it doesn't, go to System Preferences -> Displays, and then select your television display. It should list off different preferences in terms of both TV (720p, 1080i, 1080p, YMMV) and computer monitor resolutions (1280x720, 1920x1080, again YMMV). If your HDTV is only a 720p model, then the 720 resolution would be your best bet. I find text on the 1080i settings (most 720p TVs can do 1080i) to be unreadable.

 

[GGJstudios]

Not entirely true.

For what it's worth, I wasn't referring to an iMac display or even the OP's internal MacBook display. I was referring to external displays made for use with computers. Yes, I know there are some HDTVs that have a higher resolution than some displays, but the MacBook can drive an external display up to 2560 by 1600 pixels, which you won't find on most HDTVs.

 

[obsidian1200]

For what it's worth, I wasn't referring to an iMac display or even the OP's internal MacBook display. I was referring to external displays made for use with computers. Yes, I know there are some HDTVs that have a higher resolution than some displays, but the MacBook can drive an external display up to 2560 by 1600 pixels, which you won't find on most HDTVs.

Sorry, I didn't mean anything by the comment. I just wanted to make sure the OP was aware that his TV could match a computer display, granted it is 1080p, since his concern was partially being unable to change the resolution on his TV. Anything to avoid confusion.