This is a software/hardware problem. I am unsure as to why, but when I attempt to view any type of video with xine or mplayer, I cannot see it on my regular monitor. I use a Dell laptop, but have it docked most of the time when at home (use USB keyboard, USB trackball, external speakers, and have it wired to my SamSung 17" monitor). However, the video works fine on the laptop's monitor. I figured this was something to protect people from plugging in a VCR and recording a DVD (or any regular .avi/.mpeg/.wmv). Is there a way around this - as the 17" monitor I can view from any angle and distance, whereas my laptop monitor is not as fun when there are multiple people watching the movie.