Splitting Screen

[krbaker]

Is there a device that splits a big screen into multiple screens from different inputs? basically providing for picture in picture for non-pip ready tv's.

[BADuHamel]

Is there a device that splits a big screen into multiple screens from different inputs? basically providing for picture in picture for non-pip ready tv's.

You could try connecting a Mac/PC to your television via a DVI-to-HDMI cable and then use a video tuner/capture card with PiP capabilities from there and watch television through the computer, that's the only way I can think of to achieve that on a TV without built-in PiP.

[MrBoylan]

Is there a device that splits a big screen into multiple screens from different inputs? basically providing for picture in picture for non-pip ready tv's.

Yes, devices like that exist but they're not that cheap as they're usually designed for security and video distribution systems or for broadcast mixing/monitoring, not for home use. I don't know of any inexpensive ones intended for home use.

You can look for a DVR or tuner that has the PiP function built into it. Some DISH DVRs have PiP with three built-in tuners (one OTA, two satellite). Some cable DVRs with built-in tuners may include a PiP function as well. The device will need to have two tuners in order to do PiP.

Is this to watch two different live TV shows? Or to watch TV in one window while watching (say) a DVD in the other window? What are you trying to accomplish exactly?

Regards,

-Chris

[krbaker]

I have 2 main desires. The first would be to split the screen with one side being live tv and the other being my computer input. so I can surf and work while I watch. the second would be to view 2 live tv inputs (primarily 2 sporting events) at the same time. Watching NFL/Nascar on Directtv has been resolved by ordering their packages. but that only provides for NFL games. If I want to watch college basketball and an NBA game, can't do it. I already have the 2 inputs. I use Directtv and a local HDTV antenna for local channels plus can run a line for a secondary receiver if necessary

[krbaker]

And.....although cost is most definitely a consideration, I would be interested in options to review. I have a significant investment already in my setup so in the grand scheme, it may not be out the door.

[MrBoylan]

And.....although cost is most definitely a consideration, I would be interested in options to review. I have a significant investment already in my setup so in the grand scheme, it may not be out the door.

Here's one for $3500. Here's another one for over $4,000. There are cheap ones like this one but they offer no support for HD inputs.

This one from GoMax (MX 1010) sells for around $1000 but I don't think it's available in the US.

You would think that this would be a basic feature in video processors, but I don't know of any that include it. And I only know of one AVR (Audio/Video receiver) that included the feature, the Sony STR-DA5200ES which is now discontinued (but Crutchfield has a "scratch-n-dent" one for $679).

If you need PiP, your best bet might be to buy a new TV that has it included. But make sure you can do PiP from a PC input (VGA and/or HDMI). Some PiP features work only with the on-board tuners, and some don't support PiP from a VGA input, even if the TV does include a VGA input.

Anyway... good luck.

-Chris