connecting my hp computer monitor as a TV

[questionsquestions]

I am completely stupid when it comes to electronics. I was wanting to save money and use my unused computer monitor as a TV in our camper. My husband is unsure if that can even be done. So I am trying to find out. My computer monitor is approx 4 years old. Is this possible and how do I go about doing this?

[budwzr]

No, that won't work.

Computer monitors do not have a tuner, nor do they have video IN connections.

[jagabo]

You need an external tuner with the appropriate outputs for the monitor. Something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Mygica-LDA-9000-Standalone-Digital-Monitor/dp/B004AH6HM4/

[redwudz]

If you have a laptop with a VGA out and the monitor has a VGA input (15 pin rectangular), maybe. You would need VGA cable and a USB tuner for the laptop. Something similar to this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815116031&cm_re=usb_tv_tuner_for...-031-_-Product

Most TV stations in the US now are digital, so the tuner would be for OTA (Over The Air) digital TV. Reception is a bit more difficult in remote areas.

The other issue is power for both the monitor and laptop. Do you have an inverter to change the 12V vehicle power into 120VAC that the monitor and probably the laptop need to run?

It would probably be easier to just get a cheap TV at Walmart or similar. If you can find one that runs off of the 12VDC vehicle power it would be better.

And welcome to our forums.

EDIT: What jagabo mentions would likely be a better choice, but you would probably still need 120VAC power.