How to use a laptop as an external monitor
Hardware compatibility check
Before using your laptop as an external monitor, it's important to check hardware compatibility. In particular, you should check if your laptop has a video input port that supports input from another source.
Steps to check hardware compatibility:
- 1. Check your laptop specifications: verify if your laptop has an HDMI, VGA or DVI port. If you have trouble finding your laptop specifications, you can search online using the laptop model and the words "technical specifications".
- 2. Verify the presence of a video input port: if your laptop has an HDMI, VGA or DVI port, check if there is also a video input port that allows you to connect another video source to your laptop. Most laptops do not have this feature, so you may need to purchase an adapter.
- 3. Purchase an adapter (if necessary): if your laptop doesn't have a video input port, you'll need to purchase an adapter that allows you to connect the other video source to your laptop. For example, if you want to connect a desktop PC to your laptop, you'll need a VGA-to-USB or HDMI-to-USB adapter.
- 4. Verify your operating system compatibility: make sure your laptop supports video input from another source. For example, if you're using a Windows 10 laptop, you should check if your operating system supports video input from another source.
Once hardware compatibility is verified, you're ready to use your laptop as an external monitor. Keep in mind that you may need to configure the video settings on your laptop to properly display the video input from the other source.
Connecting your laptop to a PC
To connect your laptop to a PC and use it as an external monitor, you'll need an HDMI or VGA cable. Make sure both devices are turned off before starting.
Step 1: Connect the cable
Insert one end of the cable into the HDMI or VGA port on your laptop, and the other end into the corresponding port on your PC.
Step 2: Turn on the devices
Turn on your PC and wait until it fully starts up. Then, turn on your laptop by pressing the power button.
Step 3: Select the video input
On your PC, right-click on the desktop screen and select "Display settings". In the settings window, select "Screen" and then choose the "Extend these displays" option from the drop-down menu.
You can now use your laptop as a second monitor to display more information simultaneously.
- Example: If you're working on a PowerPoint presentation on your PC, you can use your laptop as an additional screen to keep your email or other important information open while you work on the main presentation.
Configuring Display Settings
After connecting your laptop to an external monitor, you need to configure the display settings to use it as a second screen. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Open Display Settings
Click on the Start button and search for "Display Settings". Click on "Display Settings" in the search results.
Step 2: Select Extended Screen Mode
In the display settings, select the "Screen" tab. Under "Multiple displays", select the "Extend these displays" option. This allows you to use the external monitor as an extension of your laptop desktop.
Step 3: Configure Resolution and Orientation
Under "Resolution", select the resolution of the external monitor from the drop-down menu. Typically, there are several resolution options to choose from, but it's important to ensure that it is compatible with the external monitor.
In addition, if the external monitor has a different orientation than the laptop (for example, if it is positioned vertically), you can change the orientation under "Orientation".
Step 4: Set Primary Screen
If you want to use the external monitor as your primary screen instead of your laptop, you can select the "This is my main screen" option under "Multiple displays". This will move your taskbar and desktop to the external monitor.
Step 5: Save Changes
After configuring all the settings, click "Apply" to save the changes. The external monitor should now be used as a second screen for your laptop.
- Remember that some video cards may have additional settings that need to be configured to properly use an external monitor. Refer to your laptop manual or contact technical support if you have any questions or issues.
- Also, keep in mind that using an external monitor may require more processing power and affect the battery life of your laptop.
Using Your Laptop as an External Monitor for Your PC
Once you understand the necessary requirements, you can use your laptop as an external monitor for your PC. Here's how:
Step 1: Connect the Devices
Firstly, make sure both devices are turned off and unplugged from the power outlet. Then, take an HDMI cable and connect it to the HDMI port on your laptop and the HDMI port on your PC.
Step 2: Configure Settings on Your PC
Turn on your PC and access the hardware settings. Select "Display" and look for the "Multiple display" option. Here you should see a list of available displays, including your laptop and PC monitor.
Select "Extend these displays" to use your laptop as an external monitor for your PC. This will allow your PC desktop to expand onto the laptop screen as well.
Step 3: Configure settings on your laptop
Turn on your laptop and press the "Fn + F4" key combination (or any other key combination assigned by the manufacturer) to switch the video mode to "HDMI". Alternatively, you can look for the video mode in the system settings.
This way, the PC's video signal will be transmitted to the laptop through the HDMI port.
Step 4: Use the laptop as an external monitor
After configuring the settings, your laptop should work as an external monitor for your PC. You can use the touchpad or mouse of the laptop to control the cursor on the screen.
In addition, if you want to use the laptop keyboard to type on your PC, you can enable this option in your PC's system settings.
Step 5: Disconnect devices
When you're done using your laptop as an external monitor, make sure to turn off both devices and unplug them from the power outlet. Also remove the HDMI cable from both device ports.
- Remember that using your laptop as an external monitor may require a good internet connection and adequate video card.
- Also, make sure you have enough desk space to safely and stably position both your laptop and PC.
Conclusion
Now you know how to use your laptop as an external monitor for your PC. This is a useful solution when you need a larger screen or want to work on two screens simultaneously without having to buy a new monitor. Remember to follow the correct steps to connect and configure devices. This way, you'll have a smooth and hassle-free user experience.
Michael Anderson - Software Engineer
My name is Michael Anderson, and I work as a computer engineer in Midland, Texas.
My passion is sharing my knowledge in various areas, and my purpose is to make education accessible to everyone. I believe it is essential to explain complex concepts in a simple and interesting way.
With GlobalHowTo, I aim to motivate and enrich the minds of those who want to learn.
