Windows 7 - Dual display setup help

Hello all,

I have been using my HTPC box mostly for DVR, Media Center, and a few games. It is connected to my 47" LCD TV, as the main and only monitor. I have decided to add a second, smaller 17" monitor to view system temps, and processor usage, and every day tasks that are difficult to see from the couch on the 47" LCD TV. I would like to use the 17" as the "main" monitor with desktop icons, task bar, etc. and the 47" to watch movies, Media Center, and the few games I play. I am able to drag MC to the 47" full screen, as well as Arcsoft Total Media Player, but when I launch a game, it is on the 17". I have tried switching "main monitor" to the 47" and dragging the task bar to the 17", but some apps have pop ups that appear on the 47". This dual monitor thing is new to me, but I know I will get more use of my box. I have tried searching the net, but you all know how that goes. Thanks for any help. I have system specs.

No replies? Maybe my question was too vague. I would like to use a 17" monitor with computer as normal, but have the 47" LCD TV display Media center, and have my games display there also. Thank you.

Most programs will default to the main display the first time they are run. Most if not all message/error windows will open on that screen too. Even if you drag the taskbar over to the other screen. I run dual monitors but switch to a single display when I play games. I put shortcuts on my taskbar for "Computer Only" and "Extend".

Is the 17" HDMI or is it VGA using an adapter.

Sorry, here is a bit more system detail. The mobo does not have on board video. I have both monitors connected to the Nvidia 8800gt. The 17" Dell with DVI at the bottom port (so I can see POST and boot) and the 47" Toshiba via HDMI cable with DVI-HDMI adaptor on the top port at the card end.

I would prefer to use both monitors during game play, so I can observe system temps, resource monitor, pause the game and get to the web, like "true multitasking". I have read about UltraMon, but I would prefer not to use software assistance. I thought for sure Windows 7 would be able to meet my needs, I just have not figured out how. So here I am asking the experts. Thanks.

sbreland73, Sorry I can't help you with your problem. But, see if this tutorial about a display switch shortcut will be of assistance to you.

Well, after much searching and little help here, I have decided to to leave the 47" Toshiba as the main display, with the 17" Dell as the extra, with taskbar and XP Mode VM there. I will just have to live with a few message windows poping up on the 47". Thanks to all for your input.

Download a program called Actual Multiple Monitors That will give you all the options to switch displays on a whim and has alot of really kewl options for dual monitor applications.