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Monitoring

The document provides instructions on how to connect an external display to a laptop, detailing steps for both Windows and macOS operating systems. It covers various connection types, activation methods, and display options available once connected. Additionally, it addresses concerns about using an external display if the laptop screen is broken and mentions the use of docking stations.

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5 views13 pages

Monitoring

The document provides instructions on how to connect an external display to a laptop, detailing steps for both Windows and macOS operating systems. It covers various connection types, activation methods, and display options available once connected. Additionally, it addresses concerns about using an external display if the laptop screen is broken and mentions the use of docking stations.

Uploaded by

rblilunatrainingcenter
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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How to connect an external display to my laptop
Updated: 06/01/2025 by Computer Hope

All modern laptops can connect to an external display, such as a flat-panel monitor, projector, or TV. The
external display can extend your viewing area, giving you more space for applications, or mirror your laptop
screen (show the same thing on both screens). The following sections show you how to connect an external
display device to your laptop computer. To proceed, select your operating system from the list below and follow
the instructions.
 How to connect to an external display in Windows.
 How to connect an external display in macOS.
 Laptop connected to a docking station.
 How do I disable the auto-switch or specify an external display?
 Will a monitor work with my laptop if my laptop screen is broken?
 Related information.
How to connect to an external display in Windows
To connect the external display to a laptop, locate the correct port on the body of your laptop. Most laptops use
one or more of the following connections: HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), DisplayPort, or USB-
C (also Thunderbolt 3 or 4). Some older laptops use DVI (Digital Visual Interface) or VGA (Video Graphics
Adapter). These various connections are shown in the images below.
Most display devices are plug and play, meaning they work as soon as they're connected. However, some
require you to press one or more keys on the laptop's keyboard to "activate" them. This keyboard shortcut
varies depending on the laptop, but is often one of the following: press and hold the Fn key, and then
press F3, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9, or F10.
The activation function key usually has a picture of a monitor on or above it. If you can't find this key, consult
your laptop's manual. If you still need help, or need a copy of the device's manual, visit the laptop
manufacturer's website.
Change what's displayed on the secondary monitor
In Windows, press the Windows key+P to show the Project options (for controlling a projector or external
display).
 PC Screen Only - Only the primary display is active. The external display is not used.
 Duplicate - The same image is shown on both displays. If the displays have different resolutions, the
resolution of the smaller display is used for both.
 Extend - The external display extends the primary. Application windows can be moved from one display to
the other if you click-and-drag the window's title bar.
 Second screen only - The primary display (e.g., the laptop screen) is disabled, and only the secondary
display is enabled.
Tip
If your external display uses Miracast (HDMI over Wi-Fi Direct), click Connect to a wireless display to connect to
it.
How to connect an external display in macOS
To connect your MacBook or MacBook Air to an external display in macOS, plug it into an HDMI, Thunderbolt,
or USB-C port using the appropriate cable. If the external display doesn't show your desktop when you plug it
in, you may need to select it in System Settings. However, doing so depends on the version of your device's
operating system. To proceed, select your macOS version below and follow the steps.
Tip
Many modern laptops have limited ports. Consequently, you may need to add an adapter to facilitate
connectivity. For example, to connect a TV to an Apple computer, you may need an HDMI to Mini
DisplayPort adapter.
 macOS Ventura and Sonoma
 macOS Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, and Monterey
macOS Ventura and Sonoma
Below are steps for switching between displays in macOS versions 13 and 14.
1. At the top-left corner of the desktop screen, click the Apple icon.
2. Select System Settings from the Apple menu.
3. In the sidebar, scroll down and click the Display selector. Then, in the right section under Displays, click
your preferred external display.
macOS Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, and Monterey
Here is how to switch between displays in macOS versions 10 through 12.
1. In the menu bar, click the Apple icon to open the Apple menu.
2. In the Apple menu, click System Preferences.

3. Click the Displays shortcut icon.


4. In the new window to the right, click the appropriate display.
Laptop connected to a docking station
If your laptop connects to a docking station, there should be several video ports on the back of it for a monitor.
However, these ports vary from brand to brand. Depending on the docking station, the laptop may need to
remain open for a dual monitor display.
How do I disable the auto-switch or specify an external display?
Some laptops have an external display "auto-switch" feature, which can be configured in the BIOS (Basic
Input/Output System).
 How to enter and exit the BIOS or CMOS setup.
Will a monitor work with my laptop if my laptop screen is broken?
In many cases, yes. If only the laptop's screen is broken, an external monitor usually still works with your
laptop. However, if there are other malfunctioning components, such as the video card, the external display
may not work.
Related information
 How to display a computer image on a TV or projector.
 Can I use my laptop display for my desktop?
 My laptop computer screen is black.
 How to fix a broken laptop LCD.
 See the DisplayPort, DVI, external display, HDMI, and VGA definitions for additional information about
these terms and related links.
 Laptop help.
 Was this page useful?YesNo

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