Using HDTV as monitor

This is NOT a feasibility question, it's about real world experience using an HDTV as your main monitor. I have an LG 42" LCD screen with a zillion inputs, digital and analog. I can hook up the set easily. TV native resolution is 1440 X 1080 and my video card can handle that.
Has anyone tried using a BIG screen as their monitor for a long period of time?
Any problem with eye strain? Does it make you queasy like the new 3D stuff does? Are the colors good enough? Do you get sofa cramps? Is it just too good to believe? Seriously, what are the LONG term results?
I ask because although the tech parts are a piece of cake the machinery involved is HEAVY. I don't want to move all that stuff and be disappointed.

 

I haven't done it yet, my 42" plasma (Zenith, 600 Hz) is still on layaway.

In my case, I have my little desk with monitor next to the dresser, and the TV sits atop the dresser. I've got everything in the bedroom adjoining the basement, since I'm not done finishing the basement just yet.When I used to boot XP, I did use my JVC 36" 30i flat screen tube with higer resolution (1024x728) as a regular sometimes, but mostly for gaming. At less than that resolution, the letters got fuzzy. I will say this, as long as you are at the right distance, wireless keyboard and all, it's pretty cool to see everything HUGE.

Now that I run Vista regularly, I actually push 480i through it, but it's useless when viewing a browser (740x680 max). Works well with Netflix fullscreen, though. Funy thing that XP could run higher resoloutions on that 30i TV, but Vista cannot. Maybe 7 could, but I doubt it. Seems Microsoft, or ATI doesn't expect anyone running Vista to still have a tube TV, and I'm not into writing custom drivers. :mad

By the way, if anyone sees a wireless "Trak-Ball" (Logitech M570) style mouse on clearance somewhere, please let me know.

Personally, I can't wait to pick up the plasma in February!!

 

I have been using a 42" sharp TV for a monitor on my Linux machine, for almost a year now. No problem with eye strain. I do have a Logitech Wireless combo keyboard and mouse. My screen resolution is set at 1024X768 and the TV is set to stretch to fill the screen. It really works great, I don't get any neck strain looking through bifocals looking at a small screen closeup anymore. :cool

 

Rhinoguy- Been using my Samsung 42" plasma as a monitor with my HTPC usually for a few hours a day for about a year now. 1024x768 res, wireless keyboard w/built-in trackball. No issues, no eye strain, great for games, web browsing, streaming net content.
Running Win 7. Vid card is a HD6850.

mekanic- wife has a M570 she uses with her laptop. She loves it.

Sam

 

I have to confess I haven't used my new home theater build for Word or Excel yet. Although your setup should be good for gaming or video, reading e-mail or typing your resume on a 42" screen will ultimately depend on personal preference.

If couch surfing, you may want to consider a wireless keyboard with a built-in touch pad (similar to a notebook PC keyboard). Attempting to use a mouse with both a lamp and a beverage on the end table could end up being a messy proposition.