How Do I Connect and Set Up an External Monitor?

  1. Overview
  2. Peripheral Devices and Accessories
  3. How Do I Connect and Set Up an External Monitor?

For Windows Users

  1. Connect the Monitor:

    • Use the appropriate cable (HDMI, VGA, or DisplayPort) to connect the monitor to your computer.
    • Plug the monitor into a power outlet and turn it on.

  2. Detect the Monitor:

    • Right-click on the desktop and select Display Settings.
    • Scroll down to Multiple Displays and click Detect if the monitor isn’t recognized.

  3. Adjust Display Settings:

    • Under Rearrange Your Displays, drag the monitor icons to match their physical layout.
    • Choose Extend These Displays to use both screens independently or Duplicate These Displays to mirror the screens.

  4. Set Resolution and Orientation:

    • Scroll to Display Resolution and select the appropriate option for your monitor.
    • Adjust Display Orientation if necessary (e.g., Landscape or Portrait).

  5. Save Changes:

    • Click Apply to save your settings.

For Mac Users

  1. Connect the Monitor:

    • Use the correct cable (HDMI, USB-C, or Thunderbolt) to connect the monitor to your Mac.
    • Plug the monitor into a power outlet and turn it on.

  2. Detect the Monitor:

    • Go to System Settings > Displays.
    • Click Detect Displays if the monitor doesn’t appear automatically.

  3. Adjust Display Arrangement:

    • Under Displays, drag the blue rectangles to match your physical monitor arrangement.
    • Check Mirror Displays to duplicate the screen or leave it unchecked for an extended display.

  4. Set Resolution and Scaling:

    • Select your external monitor and choose the resolution under Resolution Settings.

  5. Save Changes:

    • Close the Displays window to save your preferences.
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