Electronics: Gaming, computers, home theatre, CELL phones.

[fenders53]

I thought this might be a good place to discuss home electronics.  I have what I am sure are a few very simple questions for you techies.  

My stepfather is 94yrs old.  He has always enjoyed Vegas type gaming.  He can't travel much now other than a weekly trip to the local casino.  For years he played slots and cards on his laptop for hours at a time, almost daily.  A year ago he gave me his laptop.  Told me he couldn't comfortably focus his eyes on the screen anymore.  I know he can see his TV well enough because he watches Cowboy shows all day long.  My mother said he is really bored and wished he could play video slots.  I am sure this is possible but unsure of range so I thought I should ask before we buy equipment.  I want be sure.   

He has a 46" smart TV.  Has a Roku box on it.  We are going to get him a new laptop and screen share to the TV.  Any laptop should do right?  It will need to support DVD because all of his current games are on CDs.  Downloading a few newer games would be fine if they exist.  I want to do this wireless and his chair is about 12ft from the TV.  No range issues?  It will be reliable?   

If this works out I might add some simple arcade type games.  He's a good man and no reason for him to be bored if I can fix it.

[mid range]

I would try a local community college or even 4 year school. Their IT department typically has tutors or student assistants. There should be someone who would help inexpensively, and be willing to go to his home. They will be familiar with laptops and streaming services in the area and many other things. Pay a little, save time and possibly money later, just a thought. Also ask friends and family if they might know such a person who works in this field.

Larry retired IT guy who never got into the PC world much.

[crimsonghost747]

Unfortunately I'm completely lost when it comes to smart TVs, seeing as I haven't owned a TV in over a decade.
The internet will be full of instructions and youtube videos on how to make this work and what you need. Whichever store you buy from will also have sales people who can help you out if you go to the store.

[fenders53]

Thanks. I did look around the net and range is the only question remaining. If I go to a real electronics store one of the kids will know. It's just a key stroke or two in Windows to share the laptop screen to TV.