Setting up a second monitor for your windows OS pc is quite simple. Most of the time it is only plug and play. If you are having a hard time doing so, this post will guide you every step of the way.
I recently both a second monitor that I will connect to my windows laptop. Just like you, setting it up to work seamlessly with my pc is one of my concerns.
The good thing is after several trials I was able to make it work. I documented the process that I have done so can follow it.
How to Setup the second monitor on Windows PC or Laptop
Hopefully, by following the steps in this post, you will also be able to connect your new monitor to your pc or laptop easily.
Step 1. Assemble the components of your Second Monitor
Follow the user manual on how to set up the components of your monitor. Usually, the quick setup guide is included in the box of the hardware.
In my case, I bought a Samsung monitor. According to its user manual, I have to assemble the stand first, then affix it to the rear of the monitor. Take note that the assembly process differs with respect to the design of the stand and also of the brand.
Step 2. Connect the HDMI and power cables
Check the locations (usually at the back of the monitor) where you can connect the power cable and the HDMI cable.
Afterward, connect the other side of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port of your laptop or desktop.
Make sure that the two ends of the cable are properly fixed and not wobbling.
When everything is set, Turn on the second monitor and your windows pc
Tip 1: Based on my experience, I was able to connect the cable properly however the screen keeps switching on and off.
What I did is interchange the HDMI connection. Aside from that, I make sure that the cable is fixed and not wobbling.
Tip 2: newer versions of laptops often have HDMI ports. However, if your laptop does not have an HDMI port you need to buy a port adapter to convert it to a USB type C or A connection.
Step 3. Select the source device for the second monitor
Basically, the source device will be your laptop or desktop. What You need to do now is to check the user manual of your monitor so you can set the source display for the latter.
Again this depends on the brand of your monitor. The brand that I am using is Samsung.
Step 4. Output the display of your pc to the second monitor
When your windows-based laptop or desktop and your second monitor are connected properly via the HDMI cable. The next step that you need to do is output the display of your windows pc to your second monitor.
Look at the “function key” or “Fn” on the keyboard and the designated hotkey from F1 to F12 to toggle the display output of your windows pc.
When you press the designated hotkey. The pop-up window will allow you to select the different display options. You can set the display on pc screen only, duplicate the screen on your pc, extend the screen of your pc, or use only the second screen as your sole display.
I suggest that you explore these options to be familiar with them.
Tip: If you are using an ASUS laptop, you can toggle the display by pressing the “fn” button plus the F8. Underneath the f8 letters, you will see an image that looks like a pc screen and a projector.
Step 5. Set the location of your second screen on your windows pc
This part is necessary because you need to let your windows pc know the physical location of the second screen. Whether it is on the left-hand side, top, or on the right-hand side of your pc.
The reason is so you will know which side of your pc screen to move your mouse for it to travel to the second screen. Right-press on your desktop and hit “display settings.”
You will be able to see monitor 1 and monitor 2 on your screen. Similar to the photo. Monitor 1 is the screen of your windows pc and monitor number 2 is the second screen.
Using your mouse, drag monitor number 2 relative to the physical location of your second monitor.
In my case, the location of the latter is on the left-hand side. So I drag monitor 2 to the left-hand side as well.
After you finished dragging monitor 2 similar to the physical location. You have to hit the “Apply” button. Close the window and try to move your mouse towards the direction relative to your second monitor. You will see that the mouse can now travel to the second screen.
Keep in mind that you have to repeat “Step 5” of this guide every time you will change the location of your second monitor.
Here is another example. I move my second screen above my windows laptop after installing a North Bayou F80 monitor arm. As a result, I repeat the “Step 5” process and drag the second screen (monitor 2) on top of monitor 1.
Conclusion
Setting up your second monitor for your windows PC is overwhelming if you do not know the steps on how to make it work. However, once you are familiar with the process, you will realize that it is easy. Anyway, I hope this guide has somehow able to help you setup your second monitor for your laptop or Windows PC.
