How to Setup Multiple Monitors

Various Connector Types
Setting up the Second Monitor andf Setting Display Styles

This article provides information on the various connectors used when setting up monitors and the guides by operating system on how to set up dual/multiple monitors and change the display style.

Various Connector Types

Connect the monitor cord(s) from the monitor(s) to the laptop or desktop.

Table 1: Video Connections

Display Port	Display Port is a new digital standard for connecting monitors to computers and has the capability to provide a scalable digital display interface with optional audio and high-definition content protection (HDCP) capability. Display Ports usually resemble USB Ports with one side angled. A Display Port cable should be used if Display Port connectors are available on both the computer and the monitor.
DVI	Digital Video Interface (DVI) is the digital standard for connecting monitors to computers. DVI connections are usually color-coded with white plastic and labels. DVI cables provide a higher quality signal than VGA cables. A DVI cable should be used if DVI connectors are available on both the computer and the monitor.
VGA	Video Graphics Array (VGA) is the analog standard for connecting monitors to computers. VGA connections are commonly color-coded with blue plastic and labels. A VGA cable should be used if DVI connectors are not available on either the monitor or the computer.
HDMI	High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is the current digital standard for connecting all kinds of video devices. HDMI cables provide the same quality of video signal as DVI. However HDMI can provide sound through the cable but the Video Card has to support the Audio through HDMI function in order for it to work.

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Setting up the Second Monitor and changing Display Style

Please select the article below for the specific instructions for your operating system. These articles will cover the set up and display style instructions. In addition to these guides further information on Dell Monitors can be found on the Monitor Support page

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Monitor Support page More information and support for your Dell monitor, laptop or tablet screen can be found on our Monitor Support site.

Article ID: SLN129825

Last Date Modified: 04/16/2018 10:17 AM

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