Adding Monitors: What Port to Use?
- 1). Look at the ports on your computer. They are usually found on the side or the back of the computer. The ports for the monitor often have a small icon of a screen to indicate that it is a monitor port. On some computers, there may be more than one monitor port.
- 2). Check the cable that is attached to or came with the monitor you would like to connect to the computer. Note the shape of the cable and see if it will fit into one of the monitor ports. You may need to consult your user's guide for both the monitor and the computer to verify what connection you will need. You may need to purchase an adapter for the connection to be made.
- 3). Insert the monitor cable into the computer. If the cable features screws, hand-tighten them so that the connection is secure.
- 4). Turn on both the computer and the monitor to check if the connection is working and you see an image. You may need to utilize the control panel on the computer to calibrate the settings or to designate it as the primary or secondary monitor, whatever the case may be. On Windows, look for a control panel called "Display Settings" under the heading, "Personalization" in the menu item titled, "Appearance and Personalization." In OSX, click on "System Preferences", then "Displays."
Source...