Maximize your productivity and gaming potential by setting up multiple monitors with ease. Whether you're using a desktop PC or a notebook, this video guides you through the process, from checking video card compatibility to connecting through various cables like VG, AD, VI, HDMI, or display port. Learn how to effortlessly configure your monitors, whether you prefer a duplicate setup for uniform content or an extended desktop for a larger workspace. Dell's step-by-step instructions ensure your external monitor is seamlessly integrated, and for any queries, connect with us through social media or the Dell community forum. Subscribe, like, and unlock the power of multiple screens. For further information on monitor conections and setup, please visit this article: How to Connect a Monitor to a Dell Computer.
Multiple monitors give you more screen space, and here are some basic setup tips. Monitor setup is pretty straightforward; however, there are different types of connectors and configurations. There are two types of transmission: digital and analog, and the video port on your computer needs to match an available video port on the monitor. For example, there’s USB-C with DisplayPort or Thunderbolt, HDMI, DVI, VGA, and SVGA, among others.
There should also be the appropriate amount of video outputs. It's best to use a compatible cable to connect your computer to the monitor according to the owner’s manual, or by following the steps outlined in the website article. There's even information on adapters and converters. Practically, all modern computers can support at least two monitors, but you can always check how many display ports are on the back of your graphics card, or refer to your PC’s owner’s manual.
The proper positioning of your screens and matching their specifications is beneficial. For the ultimate viewing experience, position your monitors ergonomically, with the primary monitor at eye level and centered directly in front of you. Arrange secondary monitors at the best angle possible, maximizing easy visibility while minimizing neck strain. If using only one additional monitor, it’s recommended to arrange both at a slight angle, simulating the appearance of a single wider screen.
To get the most cohesive experience, use monitors with similar technical specifications. Having the same resolution, panel size, and refresh rates is ideal, as this ensures color consistency and reduces potential issues with scaling and eye stress. Let’s go over how to calibrate your monitor and adjust your PC's display settings. Right-click anywhere on your desktop and select “Display settings”.
In the next window, choose the display layout by clicking on “Extend these displays”. “Duplicate” will show the same information on all screens. “Extend” to utilize all available screens to act as one big single screen, and “Show only” to display video only on the selected screen. Decide which of your screens you’d like to be the main display, then select the screen you want to be calibrated.
Scroll down to adjust the brightness, toggle the “Night light” option on or off, and access the “HDR” options if your displays are compatible with High Dynamic Range technology. In the “Scale & layout” section, change the size of the screen text and apps, adjust the resolution, and play around with the screen orientation. We suggest using the recommended options whenever available. With any new piece of hardware, it’s always a good idea to update your drivers.
Windows search and select “SupportAssist”. Expand the home page and click on “Run” under “Get drivers & downloads”. SupportAssist will check for pending updates and, once ready, click on “Update”, tick the “Select all” box, and then click on “Install” to get all the critical and recommended updates.
For laptops, keep your PC connected to a power source throughout this entire process. Wait for SupportAssist to complete the installations, and afterwards, restart the system if necessary. If you have any questions about multiple monitor setups, contact us via one of the options on our support website.
