If you have a desktop computer (CPU) and a laptop, you may be wondering if it’s possible to connect the two and use your laptop as a monitor for your CPU. The answer is yes, it is possible, and it can be a convenient solution for those who want to use their laptop as a secondary monitor or for those who have a broken monitor on their desktop computer.
In this article, we’ll discuss the steps on how to connect your CPU to your laptop monitor and the different options you have for making this connection.
Why Connect Your CPU to Your Laptop Monitor?
There are a few reasons why you may want to connect your CPU to your laptop monitor:
- Your desktop computer’s monitor is broken or not working properly.
- You want to use your laptop as a secondary monitor for multitasking.
- You want to use your laptop as a larger screen for gaming or streaming.
- You want to use your laptop as a monitor for a presentation or meeting.
No matter the reason, connecting your CPU to your laptop monitor can be a useful solution.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the steps, let’s go over the things you’ll need to make this connection:
- A laptop with an HDMI or VGA port (or both)
- A desktop computer (CPU)
- A monitor cable (HDMI or VGA)
- A monitor connection software (optional)
Step 1: Check Your Laptop’s Ports
The first step is to check the ports on your laptop. Most modern laptops have an HDMI port, but some may also have a VGA port. If your laptop has both, you can choose which one to use based on the availability of ports on your desktop computer.
If your laptop only has one port, make sure your desktop computer has a corresponding port. For example, if your laptop has an HDMI port, your desktop computer should also have an HDMI port.
Step 2: Check Your Desktop Computer’s Ports
Next, check the ports on your desktop computer. Most desktop computers have an HDMI port, but some may also have a VGA port. If your desktop computer has both, you can choose which one to use based on the availability of ports on your laptop.
If your desktop computer only has one port, make sure your laptop has a corresponding port. For example, if your desktop computer has an HDMI port, your laptop should also have an HDMI port.
Step 3: Connect the Monitor Cable
Once you have determined which ports to use, connect one end of the monitor cable to your laptop’s port and the other end to your desktop computer’s port. If you are using an HDMI cable, make sure to insert it in the correct orientation.
Step 4: Configure Your Laptop’s Display Settings
After connecting the monitor cable, you may need to configure your laptop’s display settings to use it as a secondary monitor. To do this, follow these steps:
- On your laptop, go to the “Display Settings” by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “Display Settings” or by going to the “Settings” app and selecting “System” and then “Display”.
- Under the “Multiple displays” section, select “Extend these displays”.
- Click on “Apply” and then “Keep changes” to save the settings.
Your laptop should now be set up as a secondary monitor for your desktop computer.
Step 5: Use a Monitor Connection Software (Optional)
If you want to use your laptop as a primary monitor for your desktop computer, you can use a monitor connection software. These software programs allow you to use your laptop as a monitor without the need for a monitor cable.
Some popular options include:
- https://www.splashtop.com/wiredxdisplay
- https://avatron.com/applications/air-display/
- https://www.idisplayapp.com/
These software programs work by creating a virtual display on your laptop and connecting it to your desktop computer wirelessly. This can be a convenient option for those who don’t want to deal with cables or for those who want to use their laptop as a monitor on the go.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you’re having trouble connecting your CPU to your laptop monitor, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure the monitor cable is securely connected to both your laptop and desktop computer.
- Check that your laptop’s display settings are configured correctly.
- Try using a different monitor cable or port.
- Restart both your laptop and desktop computer.
- Update your laptop’s graphics driver.
Conclusion
Connecting your CPU to your laptop monitor can be a useful solution for various reasons. Whether you want to use your laptop as a secondary monitor or as a primary monitor, it’s a simple process that can be done with the right equipment and software.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily connect your CPU to your laptop monitor and enjoy the benefits of using your laptop as a monitor.
