Two monitors have become a standard configuration, mainly as consumers realize how simple it is to see all essential applications in one glance. You do not have to be irritable while switching between windows.
Additionally, your productivity increases! Typically, setup is a simple process that involves simply plugging in the second monitor and turning it on.
If your pc or primary monitor comes equipped with two VGA ports, you may merely plug one VGA adaptor into each port and begin. Regrettably, few computers come equipped with dual VGA connections.
The accessibility of VGA ports is one of consumers’ most frequently encountered issues. Thus, in this article, we will discuss the connection of a second monitor with only one VGA Port.
An extended desktop enables you to replicate your primary desktop, extend it to two or more monitors, or have two different outputs on each monitor.
Multiple monitors require in a variety of work contexts. Whether you’re a developer or an artist, employing two monitors boosts productivity and tends to bring your work to life.
Suppose there is just one VGA port, and it is already in use. What should you do? Don’t be disheartened because a dual-monitor setup isn’t impossible.
What is a VGA Splitter?
A VGA splitter resembles a letter ‘Y,’ with one male VGA connector on one edge and two female VGA connectors. When purchasing a VGA splitter, the VGA cables must connect the splitter to the displays offered separately.
What Are Video Cards?
Video cards are a level above splitters in that they allow you to connect two displays to a single computer without sacrificing the high-resolution video.
The most straightforward video cards provide a single VGA and one DVI port. Connect the DVI cable from your display to the DVI port on the video card if you have a VGA monitor and a DVI monitor. Video signals send using VGA connections.
How to Extend Two Monitors Using Only a Single VGA Port?
It’s typical to have only one VGA port, and if you examine your computer now, there’s a good possibility you only have one. Simple fixes mention below to Connect a Second Monitor With Only One VGA Port.
By Changing Video Card
The simplest and quickest approach to configure a dual monitor with a single VGA connector is to upgrade your video card. However, this replacement may be time-consuming, costly, or require the assistance of a specialist.
If you are a tech fanatic, you may appreciate its relevance. Replace your old video card with one that supports two VGA ports. It may require time, knowledge, and financial resources.
Therefore, if you are willing and specific that you will do fair trials to both VGA ports, experts recommend that you upgrade the video card. While this is a permanent fix, it can be somewhat costly.
By Using VGA Splitter
You’ll need a VGA or Video Graphics Array to accomplish this, but because most PCs only have one VGA connection, you need to purchase a VGA splitter.
However, if your money is restricted and you want more options, a VGA splitter is the way to go. However, please consider that it requires a significant amount of power to operate.
Setup The VGA Splitter
- To begin, power down the monitor and computer. Remove the monitor’s VGA cable from the VGA port.
- Now, connect the splitter’s female ports to the two VGA cables and the monitors’ male ports to the splitter.
- It would be better if you now placed the VGA splitter’s single cable into the computer’s VGA port.
- It would assist if you plugged the USB wire from the splitter into the USB port on the PC.
- Now that the computer and monitors are powered on, you can configure the additional desktop to your specifications.
Best Way To Configure The Two Monitors
After connecting the two monitors, it’s time to set up the dually extended desktop. To configure a dual-monitor setup, follow the instructions below.
- Toggle to Start and then Control Panel. Select the Personalization option from there.
- Following that, click the Adjust Screen-Resolution option. It enables you to set the monitors according to your specifications.
- To view your two monitors, tap on the Detect option. They will label them with the numbers 1 and 2. After that, click the Multiple Displays tab and the Extend Displays option. Keep in mind that this will enlarge the display on your primary monitor.
- On the other hand, if you want the two displays to mirror, you must select the Duplicate Display option. It’s worth noting that if you’ve chosen Extended Display, you can reorganize your monitors simply by dragging their icons.
By Connecting HDMI to a USB
- You’ll still require an HDMI cable, but you’ll also need another piece of equipment: a USB to HDMI adaptor.
- It is great if your laptop lacks an HDMI port, as this device enables you to attach your computer to a second display equipped with an HDMI connector through a USB cable.
- Attach the USB end to a USB port on your computer. Then attach an HDMI cable (which is typically not provided with an HDMI adapter) between the adapter and the monitor’s port.
By Using USB-to-VGA Adapter
If your computer only has one VGA connection, you can connect additional displays through a USB-to-VGA converter. The display works in the same manner as any other plug-and-play monitor.
Additionally, the adaptor allows you to expand the desktop across two monitors. Follow the steps mentioned below to connect :
- USB-to-VGA adapters are available at most electronics outlets. Select an adapter that specifies that it provides extended desktop functionality. It enables you to stretch your desktop across two monitors and drag windows across them.
- Additionally, the adapter may include software that expands your configuration options for your monitors, such as the ability to rotate them or modify the resolution on each panel.
By Utilising HDMI Connectivity
- HDMI cables are convenient, particularly for newer PCs and home theatre systems. The majority of monitors will also include an HDMI connector.
- Therefore, if you have an extra HDMI cable, you can plug one end into the HDMI port on your computer and the other edge into the HDMI port on the second monitor.
- As with the VGA connection, you must navigate to ‘Display Settings .’It enables you to rearrange your monitors according to their configuration.
- When using an HDMI connection, you can mirror or extend your screen.
By Mirroring Your Monitor
- Specific computers recognize the new display immediately. The second monitor will display a mirror image of your computer’s desktop wallpaper if this occurs. If this does not happen, have no fear.
- To begin, navigate to the second monitor and select the input source.
- Then, on your primary display, right-click on the desktop wallpaper. Choose either ‘Screen Resolution’ or ‘Display Settings,’ depending on which is available.
- By clicking this, a window will open that displays two views of the monitors. Depending on your configuration, you can drag and drop these icons to reorganize your monitors.
- For instance, if your primary monitor is on the right, ensure that the screen icon labeled ‘1’ is adjacent to the screen icon labeled ‘2’ on the right.
- After arranging the screens, scroll down to ‘Multiple displays .’You can opt to mirror displays from this menu.
Frequently Asked Question
Do I Need 2 Display Ports for 2 Monitors?
Two video-out ports are required to connect both displays. Four interfaces are available: VGA, DVI, HDMI, and Display Port. If you lack the requisite ports, an external connector/adapter will be required to connect the displays to the system.
Can You Use HDMI and VGA for Dual Monitors?
Most office dual monitor configurations use HDMI rather than VGA or DVI cords, though this is not always the case. If you’re looking to connect a computer with a monitor, the VGA connector is the best option. Before you begin configuring everything, arrange your monitors on your desk.
How Do I Use Two Monitors Without a VGA Port?
The best method for connecting to a VGA monitor without having a VGA output on your computer is to use a DVI-I to VGA converter; current graphics cards only have DVI-D ports, which do not allow VGA adapters.
Can You Connect a Monitor to Another Monitor?
Daisy-chaining, also known as multi-stream transfer, or MST (in the instance of DisplayPort technology), is a technique that involves linking a monitor to another monitor rather than directly to the video out port on your system. It’s an excellent technique to minimize cable clutter and increase the distance between your monitors and the source equipment.
Conclusion
Having two displays can significantly boost productivity. Additionally, if your computer only has one VGA connector, you can still enjoy this dual-monitor setup. This guide will show you the simplest and easiest way to connect dual monitors to a single VGA connection.
We cannot promise that a VGA splitter will provide a permanent solution, as it is merely a device that you can employ. They will perform admirably as long as they keep their quality.
On the other side, upgrading the video card would be costly, but it would be a one-time investment in optimizing your gaming experience.
Moreover, you can improve the efficiency of your dual monitor arrangement by adding a USB-to-VGA adapter, mirroring monitors, or attaching via HDMI and USB to HDMI.