Enable a second monitor

Having a second monitor is great for multitasking or for sharing your desktop on a second display, like a projector. Setting it up is quick and easy to do by following these simple steps.

Only certain computers are capable of supporting two displays. Make sure you have proper outputs on your video card, and that your card is able to support this feature.

  1. First ensure that the second monitor is attached to your video card and is turned on.

  2. Click the icon at the very right of the top panel and select System Settings.

  3. In the Hardware section, select Monitors.

  4. Click the rectangle that says your monitor's name, such as XYZ Brand 23. To enable it, change the setting at the top of the dialog from Off to On.

  5. Select the appropriate resolution that your monitor supports, refresh rate, and rotation (if necessary). If you are unsure which settings to use, then refer to your monitor's manual.

  6. If the monitor's virtual location does not match its actual location, drag the monitor's rectangle around to the appropriate location.

  7. To test the new configuration, click the Apply button. If it looks correct, close the window.

By default, different images are displayed on each monitor. To enable the same image across both monitors, check the box entitled Same image in all monitors and then click Apply.

You also have the option to create a shortcut to the Monitors application by enabling Show monitors in panel, which will then place itself in the panel.