Can I Use Two Monitors on One Machine?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and methods of using two monitors with a single computer. Participants explore various hardware options, including video cards, splitters, and KVM switches, as well as practical considerations for setup.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to use two monitors from one machine to avoid moving between workstations.
  • Another participant mentions that many newer video cards support dual-monitor setups and suggests searching for a VGA splitter.
  • A different participant recommends either acquiring a graphics card with dual VGA outputs or using a Matrox DualHead2Go as potential solutions.
  • One suggestion is to use a KVM switch, although there is debate about its capability to extend the desktop across monitors.
  • Some participants clarify that KVM switches typically allow selection between monitors rather than extending the desktop across them.
  • Another participant notes that a VGA splitter could also work, and mentions the possibility of using multiple keyboards and mice with the setup.
  • A participant shares their experience of using two keyboards and mice simultaneously, indicating a practical approach to the setup.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of KVM switches for the intended purpose, with some asserting that they do not allow for desktop extension. There is no consensus on the best solution, as multiple options are discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss various hardware options without resolving the specifics of compatibility or performance limitations. The effectiveness of KVM switches versus splitters remains unclear, and assumptions about user needs vary.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in setting up dual monitors from a single computer, particularly those looking for practical solutions and hardware recommendations.

Tony11235
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I'm wanting to have two monitors run from the same machine, mostly because I hate having to move from my couch to my desk, back and forth. And when I do, i have to unplug the monitor I have at my couch, and replug the monitor at my desk. Are there adapters such as screen spliters, maybe? I don't see why there wouldn't be.
 
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Most newer video cards natively support dual-monitor or many-monitors. It's fairly common now-a-days. I'm not sure what the name of the cable you get is though... I'm sure if you search for a SVGA splitter or something along those lines, you can find them.
 
You either need a graphics card with dual vga heads or get the Matrox DualHead2Go. If you don't have an expense video card and don't need high end graphics it would probably be cheapers to get a new video card with the dual vga heads for less then $100. The DualHead2Go is $150.

http://www.matrox.com/graphics/offhome/dh2go/home.cfm
 
You can probably use a KVM (keyboard-video-mouse) switch for your purpose.

- Warren
 
chroot said:
You can probably use a KVM (keyboard-video-mouse) switch for your purpose.

- Warren

But aren't those for multiple computers, single-monitor/keyboard/mouse?
 
chroot, a KVM won't allow you to stretch your desktop across both monitors. It will only allow you to pick which monitor gets the signal.
 
dduardo,

That seems to be exactly what the OP is asking for. He doesn't want a huge desktop spanning two monitors. He wants to be able to use the same computer from either of two workstations across the room from each other.

- Warren
 
Pengwuino said:
But aren't those for multiple computers, single-monitor/keyboard/mouse?

Many KVMs have several inputs and several outputs, and can operate as a crossbar switch, connecting any input to any output.

- Warren
 
Either one, kvm or vga splitter, would do I think. I'll just do some searching and see what's not so expensive. Thanks for the replies.
 
  • #10
A VGA splitter is very cheap. If you're already using a wireless mouse and keyboard, you might just have to move those around. You can also consider plugging two USB keyboards and two USB mice into your computer simultaneously, then using whichever you prefer at the time.

- Warren
 
  • #11
I already use two keyboards and two mice simultaneously. The first pair using the original keyboard and mouse plugs. The second pair using a single USB adapter. My extenders are like 10 feet long lol.
 

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