Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

General discussion

Splitting a monitor output

Feb 15, 2005 8:21AM PST

I would like to split the monitor signal from the computer (15 pin SVGA), with one going to a monitor that is hooked into a KVM switch, the other to an LCD t.v., which has a monitor capable input.

I initially tried this with a monitor Y cable, but the monitor behaved erratically, as if it wanted to turn on and off. The LCD t.v. looked normal, except it flashed some signal "over size" which I haven't yet investigated.

Would a video distribution amplifier, for a 15 pin monitor cable be available for sale? One input, with two outputs? I assume this would solve it.

Al

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Just a thought
Feb 15, 2005 9:13AM PST

Any single video output going to two monitors will be supplying the same horizonal/vertical refresh and the same resolution. Devices such as you mention will provide some isolation and signal attenuation but I don't see that to solve a problem where two different signals might be necessary. You can run separate video cards or find one with multiple outputs that might suit you better. Hope that helps but I cannot answer your question directly.

- Collapse -
my system...
Feb 15, 2005 9:43AM PST

I forgot this portion....

I'm running an HP a730n, with 512 Mb DRAM, XP.

Could you recommend a video card with dual outputs?

Would the original monitor output run independently from the video card outputs, so if/when using the KVM, the monitor signal from the computer would be visible on the LCD t.v.?

Al

- Collapse -
Dual display video
Feb 15, 2005 11:15PM PST

I won't be able to recommend a specific card. You can do a google search for dual display video to get some ideas of what is available. If your PC motherboard has on board video, you will be limited to PCI cards. It is possible to have more than one in a system. I have a couple Radeon cards with both D-sub and DVI connectors. These will run 2 displays but not at different resolutions.