How To Run 2 Screens From One Pc

[Mercury]

I want to run 2 screens from one PC. Say 2 Excels open, one on each PC or one across the two screens, if I so wish.

I guess I need something, but what ?

[garyh]

You need a graphics card with 2 outputs, most have that now. Check the back of your computer you may already have one and just need a second monitor. Different size monitors will work but 1 the same is better.

[BB1950]

Do a search on YouTube for dual monitors. There are lots of videos that show you the various connections, cables, adapters, and procedures. Very easy! My technophobic friend was able to do it.

[newbegin4]

If your current video card doesn't have two monitor outlets, no fear. So long as you have a spare PCI slot, just buy a second video card. I've been using dual monitors for years. Lately, computers have been switching over from analog connectors for the monitor cords to some new type of digital connector. So make sure that the connector outlets match. I had that problem here. The solution was to buy a special adapter, but it wasn't easy to find locally.

As to using the monitors, you need to right-click on your desktop, choose Properties > Settings and configure from there (these instructions are for XP, you operating system version may be different).

Good luck!

[richardjomtien]

You can buy a VGA adaptor, this allows you to plug your moniter into any usb port on you computer. They cost about $90 to $100 Australian should be easy to find there. You just download the software and it's very easy I did it last week.

USB to VGA Adapter:

The USB to VGA Adapter is a high quality USB to video converter that allows the user to connect any VGA equipped monitor or projector to a USB 2.0 port on their computer. The attached display can be used to extend or mirror the computer's display or even as the primary viewing screen. Laptop users that already utilise their VGA port for a second screen can now add a third using this adapter.

Search on google.

[misterme]

If you're using a laptop, you dont' need anything. Even the cheapest laptop running windows should be able to handle this.

Plug in your external monitor. Holding down "Function" Press "F5" about 4 or 5 times. Ta'daa. multiple monitors. :jap:

If you're on a desktop, I have no clue

[welo]

Good advise so far. I would use the USB-to-VGA adapter as last resort, USB is not really fit to handle all the data from a video signal and stresses the CPU AFAIK.

Modern desktop graphics cards often come with two outlets, see here

The white connector is called DVI (digital, more modern), and the blue one is a classic VGA connector.

Your monitors will also come with one of those connectors (or maybe even offer both).

There are adapters to convert between these two connectors

HTH

welo

[regedit]

UltraMon.

[BB1950]

UltraMon.

Not necessary, a carry over from the old Windows 95/98 era. A virtual monitor which is clumsy (at best) to use.

The video card drivers and Windows have all the necessary software.

The OP did not mention the platform (laptop, desktop, etc), operating system, or video adapter (in the desktop scenario). There are several ways to set it up via the default software (less than 5 minutes). But first it needs to be connected up with the proper hardware, which the OP has to determine the appropriate, cables, adapters, or if he/she has only one monitor plug, the appropriate graphics adapter. The YouTube videos, offer excellent insight into that. Any computer/repair store can also assist the OP in determining the hardware needed. The OP also needs to discuss with the store technician as what kind of video (games, multimedia, or business) will primarily be used, to also make the best determination of hardware requirements

As welo correctly pointed out, a USB to Video adapter should be considered only as a last choice option. Graphics processing take a HUGE amount of processing power, especially the Aero mode of Vista and Windows 7. All modern graphics adapters use a GPU (Graphics Processor Unit) which relieves the load from the CPU. These GPUs also get quite warm, hence there is some kind of cooling system on the adapters (as observed in welos photos).

Once the hardware is connected, the second monitor can be set up so that it mirrors the main monitor, or be an extension, to the left, right, above, or below the main monitor. You simply drag items to the other monitor.

Edited July 22, 2010 by BB1950

[phazey]

You could always try MaxVista - I've used this for a 4 monitor solution. Why not Try the free demo if it suits your needs.

http://www.maxivista.com/multi_monitor.htm