How to Bring Up Dual Monitor Options

When it comes to increasing productivity, a dual monitor setup is by far one of the more effective approaches. While the Windows operating system will typically detect and use a second monitor without any user effort, you must configure the dual monitor options in Windows to get the most use out of each unique setup and preference. Bring up your dual monitor options by launching the Windows Display Settings component from the Start menu.

Instructions

1. Click "Start." Type "Multiple Monitors" in the "Search Programs..." box and press "Enter." This opens a "Change the appearance of your displays" window. This screen shows both monitors in boxes next to the "Detect" and "Identify" buttons. The box labeled "1" is the primary, and box "2" is the secondary.

2. Click to expand the "Multiple displays" menu. This provides you multiple options for configuring your dual monitor setup. Select the "Duplicate these displays" option if you would like the same image to appear on both monitors simultaneously. Select the "Extend these displays" option if you want a separate image on both monitors.

   You can also select the "Show desktop only on 1" or "...only on 2" options to disable one of the dual monitors.

3. Click to highlight box "2," and then click the "Resolution" menu. In the event your secondary monitor has a different native resolution than your primary, this allows you to select a different resolution. Click to choose the resolution containing "(recommended)" to change to the native resolution.

4. Position the boxes on the screen so their orientation in Windows is similar to the way the dual monitors are oriented on your desk. This process is important for ensuring a smooth transition when moving your cursor between each screen. Do this by holding down the left mouse button while dragging and moving either box 1 or 2. For example, if your primary monitor is on the right side, then move box 1 to the right side in Windows.

   You can also adjust the height of each monitor. For example, if the secondary monitor is larger or on a taller stand, move box 2 up higher in position to match the height difference as it appears on your desk.

5. Click the "Apply" button to save your settings. If you changed your screen resolution, click the "Keep Changes" button on the confirmation dialog. Click the "OK" button to close the Screen Resolution window.

References

• Microsoft: How to Connect Two Monitors to One Computer
• Microsoft Windows: Work and Play Better With Multiple Monitors; John Swenson