One Windows 8 Hassle Solved: Media Center Will be Free (if You Upgrade)

Two months ago I advised all fans of Windows Media Center to avoid upgrading to Windows 8, for the simple reason that Microsoft would not be bundling the beloved software with the new OS -- and instead charging extra for it after the fact.

Judging by the number of comments and recommendations that post received, readers shared my outrage.

I'm happy to report that Microsoft has apparently shifted gears, giving the people what they want (kind of) and dialing back the greed.

16 PC Mysteries Solved!

Why does my Windows desktop look weird on my HDTV?
It can be terribly frustrating to run a cable from a good HDTV to a PC graphics board and get skewed proportions, faded colors, and slightly blurry images.

Your HDTV might not perform well as a monitor for several reasons. First, many HDTVs aren't designed to display fine details (such as text and lines) at close distances, but to display smooth motion and vibrant colors from distances of up to 5 feet away. Some HDTVs are configurable for use as PC monitors, however, so check to see whether your HDTV has an 'Alternate Monitor' display setting, or something similar.