I have a Motorola VIP1200 set top U-verse converter and a display with SVGA and HDMI. The VIP1200 seems to have a couple of connection options (S-video and a HDMI port). Is connecting them simply a matter of getting the right HDMI cable?

Assuming your TV is HDMI input only you'll need a converter.

Once you've installed the converter it will be very easy just plug them together set your TV's input to what ever HDMI port you've plugged in. on your PC desktop rightclick go to properties and enable the second display.
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Are you connecting the svga out of the laptop to hdmi of tv via a converter? This set should have an svga input on it. try connecting this directly to svga on computer. Computers and converters and hdmi inputs on tvs are always a challenge. Newer laptops have hdmi outputs on them and are seem to work better.

reset the uverse box. try resolution output settings from box. reseat the hdmi with tv and box.

Yes there are a couple of settings which you must change in order for your computer to register your external monitor. on the desktop right click with your mouse and go to personalize, once that opens on the lower left corner click on display, now on the top left corner about the (5) fifth option it should say change display settings, click there. If you do not see two monitors displayed, click on detect, and once you see two monitors click on apply. Now if you want to extend your desktop to the second monitor simply go to the multiple monitor drop down menu and click on extend these displays, and viola there you have it. Be aware these settings are only meant for Windows 7.

You should be able to connect. I don't have a Motorola vip 1910 exactly but I did a little research and it seems like you should be able to no problem. I set up <a href="http://netplasia.com">hdmi video cards</a> and it was fairly simple.

Yes. You will need a HDMI to DVI-D converter or cable to connect them. Be aware that you won't have any sound though as the monitor (unlike flat panel TVs) hasn't got any built-in speakers.

NOT a sharp remote

you can buy a svga to hdmi converter cable.

With an HDMI cable connected, the cable box determines the picture size. The settings on the cable box must be changed in order for you to get the correct picture size. I have some experience with Motorola cable boxes; usually to access the settings you turn the box OFF and then press the menu or settings button on the box to bring up the display menu. Hope this helps!