Connecting a Monitor/Projector to Your Laptop

• Getting Set Up

    Advancements in processors, other hardware, and operating systems (OSs) now make multitasking easier than ever. A typical computer session may include browsing the Web while downloading music, or editing a photo while virus scan runs in the background. For example, Intel's latest mobile processors allow laptop users to simultaneously run multiple, resource-intensive programs while consuming very little power.

Because of the increase in energy efficiency and performance, laptops in general have become smaller, thinner, and lighter. Most new models come equipped with dual monitor support and accelerated video technology, making connecting an additional monitor a simple operation. 

Why use a second monitor?

   Dual monitor configurations make complex projects easier to work on. Graphic designers, for example, often have several editing programs running at the same time. Adding an additional monitor doubles visual "real estate," giving users more room to work and play. Your desktop view can either be replicated on the second screen or stretched across it to form a larger work area.

Smaller laptop screens are great for traveling, but can be hard on your eyes for extended use. Connecting a full-size monitor to your laptop computer allows you to choose screen resolutions and refresh rates that cause less eye strain.

Whether you plan to make a presentation, are working on a massive project or your laptop screen suddenly stops working, learning how to connect a monitor to your laptop can save you a lot of time and frustration.

Connect a monitor to your laptop

    Laptops usually have one or more digital visual interface (DVI), video graphics array (VGA), or separate video (S-Video) ports. DVI ports are used to connect some flat panel LCD displays, while VGA ports can connect either LCD or older style CRT monitors. In addition to monitors, S-Video ports can also be used to connect video cameras, DVD players, and TVs.

If you have an older laptop that does not have a monitor port, you can purchase a USB 2.0-to-SVGA video adapter. The adapter plugs into one of your USB 2.0 ports. With it, one or more LCD or CRT monitors can be connected to your computer. They are reasonably priced and can be found online or through your local computer dealer.

Let's get started.

• Shut down your laptop and unplug it. Set the monitor next to the laptop on a secure surface.
• Determine which type of connector your monitor has and plug it into the corresponding port on the back or side of your laptop. DVI ports are usually white, and most VGA ports are blue (refer to your laptop owner's manual if necessary). If your monitor uses a different connector than what is available on your laptop, you can get an adapter to make them work. Tighten the connector screws, and then turn on the monitor.
• Plug your laptop in and turn it on. If the monitor does not show your OS loading, go to the next step.
• On your laptop keyboard, locate the FN key and the display function key (typically F5, F7 or F8), which usually has a picture of a monitor or the words CRT/LCD on it. To activate the monitor display, hold down the FN key, then press the display function key. It may take a few seconds for the monitor to respond. Refer to your laptop owner's manual if you have trouble locating or using the display function key.

Configure the screens

    Most laptops mirror your desktop on the second monitor by default. By changing a few settings, you can extend your desktop across both monitors, allowing you to drag open programs from one screen to the other.

In Windows Vista*:

• Right-click on your desktop and select "Personalize" then "Display Settings."
• Arrange the two virtual monitor displays by dragging the boxes to correspond to the location of your actual monitors. For example, if your laptop is located on the left of the monitor, drag the two boxes so that Monitor 1 is on the left and Monitor 2 is on the right.
• Select the additional monitor from the drop-down menu, check the box beside "Extend the desktop onto this monitor" then click "Apply."
In Windows XP*:
• Right-click on your desktop, then select "Properties." In the Display Properties dialog box, click the "Settings" tab.
• Arrange the virtual monitor displays if necessary. Select the additional monitor, check "Extend my Windows desktop," then click "OK".
Connecting a monitor to your laptop is that easy. Other OSs such as Linux use slightly different software configurations, but they are very similar overall. Experiment with different settings and monitor combinations to get the most out of your new dual-screen workstation.