Monitor resolution ?

Hello Geeks,

I am in the market for a new monitor. I may want to buy a 19" widescreen.
What I need to know is if I buy a widescreen monitor with maximum resolution of 1440 x 900 will I have to upgrade the video card in my PC if my computers max resolution is 1280 x 1024? Do all standard 19" monitors have a maximum resolution of 1280 x 1024?

Also, is it really important to have both a DVI, and a VGA input video signal? What is this DVI ? Beside the contrast ratio ( 700:1 ) and the response time (ms) are there any other major factors I need to look for in my new monitor.
Please keep in mind that I am in the low $200.00 price range, not counting any rebates. I am cautious about rebates.

Any input from you all Geeks is mighty appreciated.

Blue

 

What make and model video card do you currently have?

 

You need to specify the video card model. I would imagine the card will support that resolution, since 1280x1024 has more pixels than 1440x900. DVI is a good thing to get if you plan on keeping the monitor for awhile, since it is compatible with high def signals and graphics cards nowadays are only coming with DVI-out (although u can buy cheap little converters.) Another thing you might want to consider is viewing angle. You want a monitor with the largest possible viewing angle so that you can see the screen from a wide variety of angles.

I own this monitor, I highly reccomend it, although its not widescreen
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16824116052

Heres a widescreen one for 228 USD that is also very good
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16824116373

When buying a monitor, make sure to stick with good brands. The poor brands may be cheaper and often have the same specs as the better brands, but the OFTEN have dead pixels (even good brands do sometimes)

 

I've got an Acer- OK'ish... would recomend ViewSonic- best value for the money