Hey guys,

I've been using my laptop more and more to stream Netflix movies to the wide screen, or Hulu, or whatever.
The thing is my kids are tying up my laptop watching movies too much and keeping me off the BOTD forum!
So I'd like to get a bare bones laptop or notebook to dedicate to the TV for streaming video.  
What would you suggest, and where?  

Thanks!  

Well if its just for streaming the cheapest route would be a PS3 or Xbox360, you can stream netflix, hulu, youtube, along with movie files stored on any networked PC off of them.

There you go, that's why I'm asking, I had no idea.  Will those work on my wireless network?  I'm guessing so.  That's a good suggestion.

PS3 has built in wireless, the 360 will require an add on adaptor to use wireless.

Now the downside, with the 360 you need to have a gold live account($50) a year. For the PS3 you run an external program like Play On ($40) When using the PS3 to do it, it requires that a computer somewhere on your network is turned on. Rumors been going around for awhile that neflix and hulu will be coming direct to the ps3 with no extra software requirments I don't know if thats going to happen though.

I've used PlayOn myself and it works pretty good.

Just need to decide which system you'd prefer, 360 is cheaper although depending on which model and factoring in a wireless adaptor and live subscription not dramatically so. PS3 has the added benefit of being a bluray player if you don't already have one, and being more reliable then the xbox.

I don't want to pay a yearly fee for TV, that's why I don't do cable.  
I think that means the PS3 would be my only choice.  
Interesting info, thanks.