video out to TV - playing avi files - why can I play mpg but not avi?

[PeterDragon]

convert it the avi to mpeg.

I know I COULD do that, but it is a crappy divx - not worth the conversion. I just wanted to know why avi's don't work.

try looking for videocard options on the laptop. you'll probably find something.

please continue to explain

go to display ->settings->advanced. There is probably something about using 2 monitors, or changing to external monitor. This is not on by default - you've got to turn it on.