How to Use VGA & DVI

Computer with dual VGA and DVI ports

Windows-based computers can be equipped with a video card or integrated video ports that allow you to connect two monitors to the computer. You can configure the monitors to display a continuous desktop so that you can drag your mouse from the far edge of one monitor continuously to the far edge of the other. You can also configure the monitors to duplicate the same display on both monitors, which is useful if you want to perform actions on your computer and allow others to follow along by watching the second monitor. Different computer and video card manufacturers offer different connection options. Some provide two VGA ports, some provide two DVI ports and some provide one of each. If your computer has one of each, you can use a VGA and a DVI monitor to enable the dual display.

Instructions

1. Turn off the computer and monitors.

2. Connect the VGA-based monitor to the computer. Plug the VGA connector on the cable from the monitor into the VGA port on the computer.

3. Turn on the VGA-based monitor, then turn on the computer. When Windows starts, the operating system will recognize the monitor and prompt you to enter display settings. Enter settings according to the monitor manufacturer's directions.

4. Turn on the DVI-based monitor. Plug the DVI connector on the cable from the monitor into the DVI port on the computer.

5. Windows will recognize the second monitor and will open a monitor configuration window. If you have installed a third-party video controller, Windows will generally open that software by default.

6. Choose the configuration, continuous or duplicate, that you prefer, and enter the display settings for the second monitor according to the manufacturer's directions. This completes the process.

Tips & Warnings

• The directions described apply only to Windows-based computers. Different directions apply to other operating systems such as Linux or Mac OS X.

References

• Article on Dell Computer website about using VGA and DVI