How do you set up dual monitors with a laptop?
Sometimes one screen is just not enough, and users have to compensate for this lack of space by either adding a second monitor or upgrading their current one. A set-up with two monitors and one laptop is called Daisy Chaining and, although it might seem a bit complex to recreate, it is actually quite easy: you just need DisplayPort to make the magic happen.
The first step is to ensure that your laptop features a DisplayPort connection and that at least one of the two monitors features a DisplayPort In and a DisplayPort Out. The second display only needs to feature a DisplayPort In. Next, check that all DisplayPorts are at least version 1.2 or superior (if not, the set-up won’t work properly). To have the perfect visualization and extra comfort, the two monitors should have the same height adjustment stand in order to create a seamless landscape in front of you.
Now we’ll go through all the steps of set-up. You’ll see that it follows the logic of chaining, in and out, like a wave. Let’s dive in!
1. How do I connect two monitors to my laptop and use both screens?
After positioning the laptop and the two monitors as you prefer, according to the task you need to do, use a DisplayPort cable to connect the laptop to the first monitor’s DisplayPort In. Then, from its DisplayPort Out, just connect the second monitor with another cable via its DisplayPort In.
You will see that this set-up will free your work or gaming desk from clutter, using only two cables to achieve full capabilities to work on different applications.
Are you looking for the perfect monitors to recreate this set-up? The LCD monitor 24B1U5301H with USB-C Docking features DisplayPort In and out, MultiClient Integrated KVM switch, and an integrated 5 MP webcam. This Philips monitor is a perfect match for the LCD monitor 242B1 with PowerSensor. Are you looking for a bigger landscape? The LCD monitor 27B1U5601H with USB-C Docking features DisplayPort In and out, MultiClient Integrated KVM switch, and delivers Crystal clear images with Quad HD 2560 x 1440 pixels. Its working partner is the LCD monitor 275B1 with PowerSensor, which also features Quad HD 2560 x 1440 resolution for Crystal Clear images.
2. Do I need a docking station for two monitors?
No, you don’t. As stated, you can work perfectly well with a laptop and two monitors thanks to a daisy chain set-up. Some people like to have a docking station because they want a wide array of ports that are always available, but you don’t need anything more than DP in and out. However, if you would still rather have a docking station, a nice match would be a LCD monitor 24B1U5301H and LCD monitor 27B1U5601H.
3. How do I split screens between laptop and monitor?
From your laptop settings, after connecting it to the monitors, you can choose the monitor order according to the physical set-up. Here you can decide if you want to see the same content on all screens, split content, or just use the monitors as they are. Commanders change according to the Operating System and which version you are using but not the visualization opportunities offered.
You now have all the knowledge necessary to create your own dual monitor set-up. You’ll soon see just how easy it is to run all the applications you need.
For the Philips Monitors, Click here.