Linux for multi monitors?

Warmo161 · 21 Mar 2011 at 20:20

Hi, I'm interested to install ubuntu on my old laptop, but I will be plugging it into external monitors sometimes, does linux support this?

I want the os to 'clone' my screen so it comes up on a tv for example. It has ati graphics and I was interested if you can do this?

I have my install disk around so I might as well try that one day but i'm not sure, is ubuntu up for this?

BigglesPiP · 21 Mar 2011 at 21:20

zetec452 · 22 Mar 2011 at 14:53

Most distros have live CD's that you can try before installing. Ubuntu included.

BigglesPiP · 22 Mar 2011 at 15:11

Do make sure you install the graphic driver when you boot from the live disk.

dannycivic02 · 22 Mar 2011 at 15:29

Ubuntu 10.10 does but ive just installed cruchbang on one of my older laptops and just tried it today and it doesn't probably have to install something else to get it to work though.

PermaBanned · 22 Mar 2011 at 20:47

dannycivic02 said:
Ubuntu 10.10 does but ive just installed cruchbang on one of my older laptops and just tried it today and it doesn't probably have to install something else to get it to work though.

In Arch i believe you have to add another section to the xorg.conf:

https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Xorg#Multiple_monitors.2FDual_screen

VeNT · 27 Mar 2011 at 23:02

I had a lot of fun trying to get this working on my laptop (D610) with lubuntu and then gave up.
it was fine as long as both screens had the same native res but if I tried to hook it up to my TV it just failed miserably and showed half the screen.
I guess it CAN be done, but I'd be willing to bet that it's hardware/driver dependent

deano · 28 Mar 2011 at 06:57

i can use a dell monitor 1680x1050 with my laptop running 1366 x 768 side by side, can't remember how now but it does work. However the screens are not cloned.