LCD Controller and DVD Decoder

Ok I've done some searching and let's see if I have come to the correct conclusion. I will be using a p200MMX, and I wanted to use a ATI card for decoding DVD and as a TV Tuner. I will be using a LCD that has and External controller card. Becuase I'm using this type of LCD setup, does it mean that I have no way of feeding the video signal from the ATI into the LCD controller. I also plan on buying 2 5" LCD for the back seats, maybe the PSONE. Would I just be better off buying an addtional one for the front as well, eliminating the LCD/external controller combo, and then using the ATI composite out (split 3 ways) to feed the LCD's? If I do go this route, what type of quality can I expect compared to using the laptop LCD?

Also as another option, I may have access to a PII450. So If I use this and use the LCD/controller combo, use software decoding for DVD, and use a dedicated TV Tuner, will I be able to view DVD and TV on my LCD. I could then feed a TV signal into the 2 addtional 5" LCD's, but how do I get DVD to those units?

I know that may question is that of a "newbie", but I have thoroughly searched the old msgs, and in some cases I have read contradicting statements, so I am just trying to verify that I have a correct understanding, before I go out and purchase any additional equipment.

Thanks

I'm not sure I get your predicament....your external LCD controller - does it not accept VGA input and output to the LCD? And why is this a problem with your ATI card?

Meatballman this is correct, my controller has 2 outputs and no input. The outputs a (1) ribon cable directly to the LCD and a normal VGA out to connect an external monitor. In terms of the ATI , I don't have it yet, and I want to make sure that I know exatcly how everything will work before I purchase anything.

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Originally posted by berniejr
Meatballman this is correct, my controller has 2 outputs and no input. The outputs a (1) ribon cable directly to the LCD and a normal VGA out to connect an external monitor. In terms of the ATI , I don't have it yet, and I want to make sure that I know exatcly how everything will work before I purchase anything.

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If it is external, there must be some sort of input...how does the controller receive the information from the computer? I'm thinking that the VGA port on it is actually an input, and the ribbon to the LCD is the output.

Meatballman, the card is an internal PCI card. The thing is that it can support the LCD and/or an external monitor.