Multiple Monitors

2 Monitors on Linux?

[piskie]

Does anyone know if it is possible to run dual screen in extended desktop mode on Linux

The ability to just plug in an additional graphics card with a monitor attached resulting in an extending desktop, is one of the few things Bill got right with Windows 98 onwards.

I would like to move to a Linux opperating system but would be loathed to give up multiple monitor facility.

Does anyone know if a Linux PC can do this?

[dingman]

I know it can be done. If I had the spare money lying around for an extra graphics card and monitor, I would. However, I also know that it isn't the easiest thing in the world to set up. Xfree86 has lots of good features, but easy, straightforward configuration is *not* one of them.

[littleman]

Found a howto [linuxlookup.com].

[SmallTime]

I have done it for some time, it has gotten easier with latest distributions. (Mandrake, in my case) The howto littleman pointed to looked helpful, be prepared to have to edit the XF86config file. I like the Matrox dual head videocard solution, but have also done it with two video cards, can be much more trouble.

[piskie]

Thanks all for your input.
Now I know it can be done I will take the plunge into the peoples opperating system.

I may be back for more help when I get into it.

[incywincy]

couldn't the same effect be achieved using a virtual desktop like VNC? What's the advantage of running multiple monitors?

[dingman]

No. You can't use software to add an extra hundred+ square inches to your display hardware. Just not possible.

[RussellC]

I did this on my test Linux box here with Mandrake 9.0 and the newest Linux nvidia Drivers. I'm pretty sure the nvidia help files that come with drivers explain what you have to change in the xfree86 file. It was only one or two lines to change to get it to work. I'm not sure what vid card you have but if i'm sure it would be the same for ATI cards, etc... as well.

[piskie]

Thanks for that RussellC

I am reconfiguring my hardware and now with the feedback from this post, I can incorporate the necessary requirements to achieve exactly what I hoped for.

Thanks all.