Connecting two monitors to your computer allows you to run several different applications or programs at the same time. Modify system preferences and options to change the way data is displayed on the second monitor.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Windows 8
Step 1. Find a free DVI, VGA or HDMI video adapter port on your computer
Step 2. Plug the appropriate cable from the second monitor into an available port on your computer
If this port is already in use, you may need to purchase an adapter or special splitter cable. For example, if you have two DVI monitors and only one DVI port, buy a DVI to VGA adapter to use the available VGA port.
Step 3. Wait for Windows 8 to automatically detect and connect the second monitor
Step 4. Swipe from right to left and then tap the "Devices" section
If you are using a mouse, hover your cursor over the lower-right corner of the screen, then lift it up and click on Devices
Step 5. Tap or select the "Send to Screen" section
Step 6. Choose a way to transfer the image based on your preference
For example, if you want the image from the first monitor to be duplicated on the second, select Duplicate. If you want to open multiple programs and deploy them to both monitors, select Extend.
Step 7. Save your settings and then close the Transfer to Screen window
Both monitors are ready for use.
Method 2 of 4: Windows 7
Step 1. Find a free DVI, VGA or HDMI video adapter port on your computer
Step 2. Plug the appropriate cable from the second monitor into an available port on your computer
If this port is already in use, you may need to purchase an adapter or special splitter cable. For example, if you have two DVI monitors and only one DVI port, buy a DVI to HDMI adapter to use an available HDMI port.
Step 3. Right click on the Windows 7 desktop
Step 4. Click on "Screen Resolution"
The Display Settings dialog box appears.
Step 5. Click on the image of the second monitor
Step 6. Change the display settings to your liking and choose a transmission method from the Multiple Displays drop-down menu
For example, if you want the image from the first monitor to be duplicated on the second, select Duplicate These Screens. If you want to use both screens, select Expand These Screens.
Step 7. Click Apply and then select OK
Both monitors are ready for use.
Method 3 of 4: Windows Vista
Step 1. Find a free DVI, VGA, or HDMI video adapter port on your Windows Vista computer
Step 2. Plug the appropriate cable from the second monitor into an available port on your computer
If this port is already in use, you may need to purchase an adapter or special splitter cable. For example, if you have two DVI monitors and only one DVI port, buy a DVI to VGA adapter to use the available VGA port.
Step 3. Wait for the computer to automatically detect and connect the second monitor
The New Display Detected dialog box appears.
Step 4. Adjust display settings for the second monitor
For example, if you want to enlarge your work area, select Extend my desktop onto this monitor. If you want the image from the first monitor to be duplicated on the second, select Duplicate.
Step 5. Click OK
The second monitor is now ready for use.
Method 4 of 4: Mac OS X
Step 1. Find a free DVI, VGA or HDMI video adapter port on your computer
Step 2. Plug the appropriate cable from the second monitor into an available port on your computer
If this port is already in use, you may need to purchase an adapter or special splitter cable. For example, if you have two DVI monitors and only one DVI port, buy a DVI to HDMI adapter to use an available HDMI port.
Step 3. Wait for the computer to automatically detect the second monitor
Step 4. Click on the Apple menu and select "System Preferences"
The "System Preferences" window will open on the screen.
Step 5. Click on "Monitors" and then go to the "Layout" tab
