How to Install Dual Monitors on a Dell

When you purchased your Dell computer, you may have been presented an option for dual monitor support. If you selected this option, a graphics card with two monitor outputs was installed on your Dell computer. If you did not choose this option, however, you are not out of luck. You can easily add a second monitor connection to your Dell computer with a VGA/DVI-to-USB adapter.

Instructions

1

Shut down your Dell computer.

2

Plug your primary monitor's data cable to the appropriately sized connection on the back of your Dell computer. If your monitor uses a VGA connection, connect it to the VGA port on the back of your computer. If it uses a DVI connection, connect it to the DVI port on your computer. If you are unsure of the connection type, just line up the same sized connections. They are different enough that a quick visual inspection tells you which connection to use, even if you are unsure if its VGA or DVI.

3

Plug your second monitor's data cable into the second monitor port. If the connections are dissimilar, use a DVI-to-VGA adapter to change your monitor's DVI connection to a standard VGA connection.

If you do not have a second monitor connection, plug a VGA-to-USB adapter into an available USB port and plug the monitor's data cable into this adapter.

4

Plug both monitors into a wall outlet and power on your computer. Windows 7 automatically recognizes both monitors and any adapters installed.

5

Right-click an empty area of the desktop and select "Screen Resolution."

6

Click the "Multiple Displays" drop-down menu and select "Extend These Displays" to expand your desktop.

7

Click "OK" to complete your dual monitor setup.