Windows – Need Instructions On Configuring Dual Monitors For Windows 8

multiple-monitorswindows 8

Just put Windows 8 on my machine, but now I can't use my 2nd monitor. I'm still brand new to windows 8, not sure what I clicked, but somehow found windows help and support, with this entry…

Connect multiple monitors to your PC

Later down in that list, these instructions appear…

1. Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, and then tap Devices.
(If you're using a mouse, point to the upper-right corner of the screen, move the mouse pointer down, and then click Devices.)

2. Tap or click Second screen and then choose one of these options:
(the rest omitted)

After I follow instruction #1, and tap Devices I do not see what the instructions say I will see. Instead, I see this…

 Devices

 Desktop

 Nothing can be sent from the desktop

Both monitors are plugged in. Nothing has changed with the hardware since last week. Everything worked fine under Windows 7.

Could someone suggest what I (currently a total windows 8 absolute newbee) can do to activate the second monitor ? The major goal is to be able to physically work in one app on one screen and another on the other screen.

When I try pressing the "Windows Key + P" hotkey, I get this on the right side of the screen

 Second Screen

 Your PC can't project to another screen.
 Try reinstalling the driver or using a different video card.

I know that I saw two screens, mirror images, when Windows 8 was first installed.

When I right click on the traditional desktop (not the Start screen) and select "Screen Resolution", like this…

Right Clicking On Desktop

This is what pops up…

Screen Resolution Adjustment Window

Again, the confusion: when Windows 8 was installed, both screens presented a mirror image.

Best Answer

The two simplest ways are -

Use the "Windows Key + P" hotkey. This will open up the "Second Screen" feature on the right side of your main display and allow you to select how you want the second screen to be displayed.

-or-

Right click on the traditional desktop (not the Start screen) and select "Screen Resolution". This will open up the Screen Resolution Control Panel and allow you to select Extend or Mirrored displays.

This option also allows you to size each screen independently and place them in the correct order for proper display.

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