different codecs for desktop vs laptop

This is probably normal, but, although I have Final Cut Express 4.0.1 installed from the same DVD on both my laptop (MacBook Pro 4,1) and my desktop (MacPro 3,1) I get fewer codecs and more limited codecs on the laptop (Easy Setup Screen). I don't know if it's a function of my RAM or my CPU's or maybe even the video hardware on these two different machines. But I wanted to find out how to get more codecs into the laptop, if possible. The laptop will do only up to 1440 x 1080 while the desktop will take me to 1920 x 1080. Maybe I'm at the limit, but am asking just in case there is something to be done.