Dual monitor video card

Drew Ott

Drew Ott

Wish I were banned.
I have a video card which only has room to plug in one monitor. What is the cheapest way to gain the ability to get a second monitor.
 
You will need a high end add on video card. This also depends on how large a monitor you use as well. The Dell and Apple cinema 30" cinema displays require two outputs just to run the one monitor :)

You might try the nVidia GeForce 7900GT. This might be a bit much for your budget though. I'm not sure what cheaper cards support this feature.
 
Most mainboards (with onboard video) only allow you the option of using the onboard or a seperate card plugged into the AGP slot. Not both at the same time. Could be wrong about that.

You can find some decent dual videocards on eBay for between $50-$200. As Shaw mentioned nVidia is good.
 
I went to CompUSA and bought one of the CompUSA brand video cards. It has both a DVI and VGA port so I was able to hook two monitors to it. I got it when they had a sale going on and paid $30...I think the normal price is $50.
 
A good video card that offers dual monitor output if the Geforce FX 5200. It was an excellent card when it came out and it still works good. Obviously it's not top of the line anymore ( you know how technology is ) but I have it and it works great. I think it's between $30 and $50 dollars on Newegg
 
Hey Silver..that's the card I got. I just got the CompUSA version of it. And yes, it is a great card, not top o' the line, but works very well.
 
nvidias definitly rock. I have tried others and have never gone back since my first quadro. I have never had any compatibity issues ever with them.
 
Thanks for the advice guys.

I probably won't buy it over the internet and go to somewhere like CompUSA, Best Buy, or Fryes...
 
Most things from best buy, CompUsa and stores like that are generally overpriced. Plus they don't generally like to sell older equipment
 
I'm reading reviews on the 5200s you guys recommend and it says they aren't that great...

Also, where on the specs when I am researching will it tell me if it has dual-monitor capabilities?
 
The GEForce 6600GT is a solid option, I've had one for over a year now running dual 19" flat panels. Also works well with HL2/Counterstrike... :kali:
 
Would that work on my computer, because I have a 2 chipset motherboard, where the video card is attached... is there a way to just unattach it?
 
Not sure I understand.

Are you saying that your mainboard has video on it or that there is a videocard already inserted into the AGP slot? Have you opened the case to see your AGP slot? (Note: If you have a new computer opening the case might break the warranty.) :(

EDIT: Found this image on the net. The AGP slot is #4. If it's available then you just need to buy a dualhead card and place it there.

motherboard.jpg
 
You should be able to disable the onboard (built-in)video card in the bios if it doesn't automatically disable when you put in the AGP card.
 
Thanks guys.

I spent last weekend cleaning out all of my computers for dust, adding new RAM, cleaning the fans, adding better fans, adding DVD drives (which is much harder than it would seem)...

I don't even wanna peak inside one of my computers right now.
 
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