Dual Monitor with ATI 9700 Pro AIW?

[KhanAlf]

I just bought my first lcd (Dell 18" Ultrasharp) to replace my Viewsonic 19" crt. I am accustomed to 1600x1200 on max settings so I was sceptical at first if it could replace my crt but I was -very- impressed with this lcd. Now, I have the following conundrum, I assumed that the monitor could support two monitors but I have learned otherwise. After doing some research, I have two options (that I am aware of).

1. Try to use a splitter which allows for dual support. This is -not- a guaranteed method but it is the cheapest for a $50 cable (if it works)

2. Buy a 2nd vcard that is radeon based. A lot more expensive option. Which is a decent card with ok 3d abilities? Can I use a GForce card or will there be driver conflicts?

Thanks for your input and advice. I really like this lcd as well as my old one, would love to use both at the same time.

 

[Lawranch]

A splitter would give you the same display on 2 monitors. I haven't tried the PCI card route.

 

[rbV5]

A splitter would give you the same display on 2 monitors. I haven't tried the PCI card route

Actually not, the splitter he refers to seperates the DVI-I connector on the AIW into a seperate DVI-D and a VGA connector. Since the AIW is a single head, DUAL ramdac card "if it works"...you have a dual head card capable of seperate displays.

I used to use a seperate PCI card (V3 2000 PCI) with my original AIW Radeon for dual diplays. It worked well except enabling the secondary monitor would disable the WDM drivers...so no video capture or viewing TV while using dual monitors. Not a big deal for what I was using it for, but not a very elegant solution either. Its been awhile, so perhaps it works better now.

I seem to remember that the vendor that was sellling some of the cables noted in an article I believe you are refering to (splitter) was offering a refund if the splitter didn't work. If thats true...that would be what I'd shoot for. If I had a DVI monitor, I'd give it a shot myself.

 

[KhanAlf]

Thanks for the replies. I am going to order that splitter for $50 and if it doesn't work, then refund it. A lot cheaper than buying a second pci card for ~$150, not to mention much simpler a solution.