How to Switch Notebook to Computer Monitor

Your notebook's VGA output port is located on the back or on one of the sides.

Although notebook computers are convenient devices that allow freedom of movement, their screen sizes are small, relative to desktop computers. If you are working or surfing the Internet at home or the office, you can connect your laptop to a computer monitor of any size using a VGA cable. By adjusting your notebook's monitor settings, you can obtain a mirror image or an extension of your notebook's screen.

Instructions

1. Turn the power off on your monitor and your notebook.

2. Insert one end of the VGA cable into your notebook's VGA output port; insert the other end of the cable into the monitor's VGA input port. The output port on your notebook is typically located on one of the sides or on the back of the device, while the input port on your monitor is typically located on the back of it.

3. Turn the monitor and notebook on. Your monitor should display the message, "No Signal Detected," or something similar.

4. Configure your notebook display settings by clicking on the "Start" button, which is located in the bottom left corner of the screen. From the menu, select the "Control Panel" option and click on the "Appearance and Personalization" icon.

5. Click "Adjust Screen Resolution" under "Appearance and Personalization." From the "Multiple Displays" drop-down menu, click "Duplicate These Displays" or "Extend These Displays." The "Duplicate These Displays" option creates a mirror image of your notebook display with the desktop monitor; the "Extend These Displays" option extends your notebook monitor onto the desktop monitor and syncs the displays.

6. Press the "OK" button in the bottom left corner of the window to save and apply the settings.

References

• Microsoft: Move Windows Between Multiple Monitors
• PC Magazine: VGA Definition