Possibility of using old crt tube lamp as computer (raspberry, arduino) monitor

Old TVs are generally only good for older gaming consoles, 8-bit computers, and some 16-bit computers with low resolution. Don't throw away the TV though, because it's part of history. Lots of people are interested in collecting old TVs. Donate it to a thrift shop if you want to unload it fast.

Theoretically, you could convert any signal to the TV with the right assortment of RF modulator, cables, converters, SCART connectors, etc, but that's expensive and it's easier to stick to systems that naturally output to RF or composite video in 4:3 standard definition.

The problem with a Raspberry PI is it outputs in digital HDMI. You may be able to find an old Raspberry PI that has composite output, but you still need to convert it with an RF modulator. VCRs with RF output contain an RF modulator, so they are frequently used to convert composite to RF.

The second problem is resolution. If you want to do anything with text, you'll have a terrible time reading it. If your goal is gaming or media streaming, those will work.

  • Raspberry PI A or B with composite output
  • Atari 2600, 5200, 7800 (RF output)
  • Sega Master System (RF output), Genesis (RF output), Dreamcast (composite output)
  • NES (RF output), SNES (RF output), N64 (composite output), Gamecube (composite output), Wii (composite output)
  • Playstation 1 or 2 (composite output)
  • Commodore VIC-20 (RF output)
  • Commodore 64 or 128 (RF output)
  • Amiga 500 or 1000 (RF output with a special cable)
  • Atari 400 or 800 (RF output)
  • Atari STFM (RF output, it may not work if your TV is PAL and can't do channel 32)
  • Tandy Color Computer (composite output)
  • Tandy 1000 (composite output)

Those old computers have very limited functionality for modern use. They're essentially only good for games. There is a subculture among the classic gaming community who like to connect their old consoles and 8-bit computers to antique televisions. They will also have lots of knowledge about how to do this.

Two forums I'm a member of could help:

/r/AskElectronics Thread