VGA ports and using Laptops as Monitors

[puudleduudle]

Okay, so I need some clarification. I just got my new PC in the mail, but I don't have a monitor yet. Since I know it's possible, I was planning on using my laptop as a monitor. All I need is a $20 VGA cable, right?
My laptop (HP G50) has a VGA port, but I just need to know if all I need is a VGA cable. Will my laptop have to have some sort of software/hardware that allows it to be used as a desktop? Will I have to take my laptop apart (from lurking some forums, some people had to do that)?

Off Topic:
By the way, thanks to everyone who is helping me with this new PC. I started off with barely knowing anything, and with some research and your help, my new PC is amazing (I'm sure). Just answer this one question, and I'll be done with the Tech Corner.

[SnOwBunZz]

The only thing you indeed need to have to hook your laptop up to a monitor is the cable. Chances are you won't even need to buy it, or only a converter.

However, you will need to adjust your primary screen in your laptop settings, which is located at the screen resolution settings in windows.