DVI or HDMI but not both

[bjlockie]

I have a Samsung T240 monitor that has VGA, DVI, and HDMI inputs.
I use the DVI for my desktop computer.
I just got a laptop from work and tried the HDMI.
The laptop doesn't detect a second monitor.
I unplugged the DVI and the laptop detected the HDMI.
I also tried the VGA connection and that is detected.
My guess it I can I have one digital (DVI or HDMI) and one analog connection (VGA).
The monitor is really old.
Is this a good guess?

Do newer monitors support switching between DVI and HDMI?

 

[Gryz]

I have a Samsung T240 monitor that has VGA, DVI, and HDMI inputs.
I use the DVI for my desktop computer.
I just got a laptop from work and tried the HDMI.
The laptop doesn't detect a second monitor.
I unplugged the DVI and the laptop detected the HDMI.
I also tried the VGA connection and that is detected.
My guess it I can I have one digital (DVI or HDMI) and one analog connection (VGA).
The monitor is really old.
Is this a good guess?

I don't know, but it sounds very plausible.
Especially when (the technology in) your monitor is old. May 2008 is exactly 8 years old.

Do newer monitors support switching between DVI and HDMI?

I'm not using multiple inputs, but I believe they do now. My relatively new Acer Predator Z35 (3 months) has a separate button to switch between DP and HDMI. I can't test it for you, as I have only 1 PC connected to it. Others here should be able to confirm.

 

[bjlockie]

May 2008 is exactly 8 years old.

I didn't realize it was THAT old.
How long do monitors typically last?
Should I start budgeting for a new one?

 

[Kenmitch]

I didn't realize it was THAT old.
How long do monitors typically last?
Should I start budgeting for a new one?

No set lifespan as far as I know. Most of time there replaced for resolution upgrades, better visual quality etc.

I'm using a newer one. DVI to PC with Hdmi to Xbox one without issues.

 

[piasabird]

HDMI is nice for digital if it can do 1080p, but if your monitor does not do the digital sound from HDMI, there is not much advantage. At least HDMI cables have become rather cheap lately and they are usually fairly light. If you want higher resolutions DP might be better. DVI cables are rather thick and bulky and dont work well with HDTV's.

Some of this is my opinion.

 

[razel]

Yes, new monitors do support switching between inputs regardless of being analog or digital. However, in 2 of the monitors I use, when you switch it's like disconnecting the cable. In the main monitor I have which specifically advertises that it support multiple inputs, it keeps the cable connection alive.

Therefore you'll have check beforehand.