Do you need a digital recording device such as a TiVo or a DVR?

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Did you know that you can watch previous played TV shows from your computer for free, so now when you miss your favorite TV show you don’t have to wait for the re-runs. This can reduce the need to go out and buy and/or use a digital recording device. Let‘s face it times are rough, and honestly you really don’t need one.

The benefits of watching shows from your computer are numerous.

Some of the benefits include the following:

You don’t have to work around TV availability. For example, if you have roommates like I do, then you need not worry about finding time to watch the shows that are important to you, they can still watch the TV and you can use the computer.
You can watch the entire episodes whenever is convenient for you with no need to download.
You can pause, rewind, fast-forward, just as if you were watching it on a TiVo, DVR or some other recording device.
If you have a laptop you can watch your favorite shows anyplace that has internet access (any room in your house, family/friends houses, coffee shops, hotels, even some camping sites have internet access).
Most channels have your favorite full episode shows available for you to watch online.
Another advantage to having a laptop if it has an HDMI or S-Video then you can connect your laptop directly up to your TV.

Using your TV as an extended Monitor

Did you know that most newer laptops come with an HDMI port and if your TV also has an HDMI port then you will be able to use our TV as an extended monitor. Yes, HDMI cables can be a little pricy, but it is a one time cost verses the price of other recording devices.
If you have an older laptop/TV do not fear because most older laptops and TV’s have an S-Video cable that you can use as well. Granted, the S-Video only carries the picture and not the sound. So, if watching movies when grabbing the popcorn be sure to grab yours external speakers as well.

See below for a sample list of websites where you can even watch movies for free. Also, if you buy the proper membership you can view movies from Netflix.com instantly (although availability to which movies you can do this with are limited it is still worth checking out).

Other reasons you may want to hook your laptop up to your TV

Watching all of those digital photos that are on your laptop. Why try to crowd around a small laptop with family and friends when you can show your slideshow on the big screen TV.
Surfing the internet with family/friends.
Playing video games.
Because it is fun and you can.