Configure Multiple Monitors In Windows XP

Windows XP makes it possible for you to increase your productivity by using multiple monitors to expand the size of your desktop. With the use of up to ten individual monitors connected to a single computer, you can create a desktop that is large enough to hold numerous programs or windows.

You can easily work on more than one task at a time by moving items from one monitor to another or by stretching them across numerous monitors.

Configure Multiple Monitors:

One monitor serves as the primary monitor, and this monitor displays the Logon dialog box when you start your computer. In addition, most programs will display windows on the primary monitor when you initially open them.

You can select different screen resolutions and different color quality settings for each monitor. Multiple monitors can be connected to individual video adapters or to a single video adapter that supports multiple outputs.

1. Click Start--> and then click Control Panel.

2. Click Appearance and Themes--> and then click Display.

3. On the Settings tab--> click Identify, to display a large number on each of your monitors. This shows which monitor corresponds with each icon.

4. Click the monitor icons and drag them to positions that represent how you want to move items from one monitor to another--> and then click OK or Apply to view changes.


Change Primary Monitor:

1. On the Settings tab of the Display Properties dialog box--> click the monitor icon that represents the monitor you want to designate as the primary monitor.

2. Click to select the Use this device as the primary monitor check box.

Note: This check box is unavailable when you select the monitor icon that is currently set as your primary monitor.

View Same Desktop in Multiple Monitors:

1. On the Settings tab of the Display Properties dialog box--> click the monitor icon that represents the monitor you want to use in addition to your primary monitor.

2. Click to select the--> Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor check box.
After you enable this feature, you can drag items across your screen onto alternate monitors. Or, you can resize a window to stretch it across more than one monitor.

Move Items Between Monitors:

1. On the Settings tab of the Display Properties dialog box--> click Identify to display a large number on each of your monitors. (This shows which monitor corresponds with each icon).

2. Click the monitor icons and drag them to positions that represent how you want to move items from one monitor to another, and then--> click OK or Apply.

3. Drag an item on your desktop across your screen until it appears on the alternate monitor. Or, you can resize a window to stretch it across more than one monitor.