Dual monitors: can one be saved for Windows while gaming?

[stultus]

I'm currently using a 20" Dell LCD hooked to my main comp along with a 14" screen on a laptop. I'm using Synergy, a VNC-based program to share one keyboard/mouse between the two. It's really nice when gaming, because I move the mouse off the screen and I'm instantly in windows surfing. However, the laptop is old, dim, and small, and I'm thinking about getting another 20ish" LCD to replace it.

I've never had a dual monitor setup before and I'm wondering how XP reacts to dual monitors when not in windowed mode. While playing a 3D game, can I use the 2nd for windows work without alt-tabbing?

 

[Geomagick]

When you select anything on the second monitor the game will minimise. It's a pain because it would be nice to doboth at the same time especially in some MMORPGs.

 

[doan]

Hook up the new monitor to your laptop

 

[stultus]

Laptop is too old to drive it 🙂 I'm just cruising around looking for a cheap combo in FS/FT. The synergy functionality is great and I guess I need two computers to have it work like I want...

 

[Lonyo]

Yes you do need 2 computers, unless you run windowed.

 

[Fullmetal Chocobo]

Originally posted by: Lonyo
Yes you do need 2 computers, unless you run windowed.

:thumbsup: This actually is a really good alternative.

 

[imported_nunya]

I run dual monitors and use both when playing MMOs, but the games do have to be windowed. Also your game resolution will need to <= your desktop resolution.

 

[secretanchitman]

synergy looks awesome! i could definitely use this now...

i would also suggest getting 2 computers.