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Mr. DisplayLink goes to Linux

Today, DisplayLink announced it is planning to bring its technology to Linux.

Eric Franklin Former Editorial Director
Eric Franklin led the CNET Tech team as Editorial Director. A 20-plus-year industry veteran, Eric began his tech journey testing computers in the CNET Labs. When not at work he can usually be found at the gym, chauffeuring his kids around town, or absorbing every motivational book he can get his hands on.
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Eric Franklin

HP's recent DisplayLink adapter. HP

Windows and Mac users have been taking advantage of DisplayLink for the last couple of years. The technology allows users to connect multiple monitors--as well as docking stations and projectors--to a single system via USB only; no need for any fancy-pants graphics cards.

Today, DisplayLink announced it is planning to bring its technology to Linux. The company released a library that enables Linux developers to create X Servers, drivers, and other Linux applications, which will be compatible with products that utilize the DisplayLink technology.

According to Displaylink, the library is provided under the GNU Lesser General Public License v2 (LGPL), which enables software to be ported by the community to cover the widest possible range of processors, platforms, and applications.

This will purportedly enable companies to create products that will work on the full variety of Linux devices, such as Netbooks, notebooks, mobile Internet devices, mobile phones, embedded displays, embedded devices, and digital signage.

So, what does this mean for you? Well, if you use Linux, you'll soon have the capability to connect multiple monitors, docking stations, and projectors to your system. Not the most earth-shattering news, but it's nice to know DisplayLink deems Linux support-worthy.