Laptop connected to desktop LCD - resolution support?

[VirtualLarry]

I haven't tried it, but I was asked by someone today about connecting a desktop monitor to a laptop, to get a bigger screen.

My question is, isn't the most common mode a "clone mode", in which the desktop monitor is fixed to the same resolution as the laptop display panel?

Is there any way to get around this, and run the desktop LCD at it's (higher) native resolution? (For argument's sake, assume the laptop has 1280x800 res, and the desktop monitor is a 23" 1920x1080 LCD.)

 

[fffblackmage]

Yes.

Works with a desktop or laptop (if laptop has a video output for an external monitor). I didn't like running more than one monitor with Windows XP, because of the trouble I always had, but it's a lot easier with Windows 7 (and Vista too, I assume). You should be able to choose which display you want to use, extend the desktop across both monitors, or clone.