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General discussion

laptop into secondary input on monitor???

Jan 30, 2011 9:18PM PST

I have a Dell LCD monitor with multiple inputs: VGA, DVI-D, S-Video, Composite and Component. I'm currently using the VGA with my desktop, but would like to also connect my laptop, which has VGA and HDMI outputs. Which combination would be the most simple and inexpensive? I've already tried VGA to DVI-D adapters, but quickly learned that I need a converter, which is too expensive. Looking forward to your suggestions.

Discussion is locked

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What outputs does your desktop have?
Jan 30, 2011 9:23PM PST

For the laptop VGA to VGA seems simple. If the desktop has DVI you're done.

Kees

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VGA only
Jan 30, 2011 11:06PM PST

unfortunately

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Re: VGA only
Jan 30, 2011 11:12PM PST

Use a KVM-switch then. That serves to connect 1 monitor (that's the V for video) to 2 computers. Don't use it for K (keyboard). Your choice to use it for M (mouse).

I've never compared the price of a KVM-switch to a VGA-DVD-converter. So I don't know if that isn't too expensive for you also.

Kees

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KVM-switch is best?
Jan 31, 2011 1:13AM PST

Ok, I'm familiar with this, but I have to admit I'm surprised that this would be the simplest answer. I was guessing it would be best to get an adapter for VGA to S-video, or VGA to component, or something similar, and just wanted to make certain that adapters such as these are analog, and efficient for this application.
I'll look into the KVM. Thanks Kees.