I like to set up a dual monitor display

First, here's what I have:


Acer Aspire X1430 Desktop
VGA and HDMI outputs built in.
AMD Radeon HD 6320 Graphics (built in)

main monitor: HP w1707 17 inch LCD Monitor
Video inputs supported:
VGA analog signal
DVI-D digital signal

second monitor: Viewsonic Professional Series p95f+ (older but still works)
VGA only

I like to set up a dual monitor display. I have an Acer desktop with a VGA connector and a HDMI connector. My main monitor has VGA and DVI connectors. I have a second older monitor that only has VGA.

I was wondering if my computer because it has two video outputs was able to support two monitors, without having to buy a new video card? I bought a VGA to HDMI wire on ebay but could not get it to work. I tried it on both monitors with no luck.

Before I waste money buying another I wanted to know for sure if my system is currently even able to support dual monitors. Money is a little tight right now so buying a new video card is not a option. I was just wondering if there was any more I could do with what I have.

I f and when I'm able to buy a card, any recommendations? My Acer desktop, is a small case with only two expansion slots PCI Express x1 and PCI Express x16.

Why didn't you buy a DVI to HDMI adapter?

alucardx said:

I bought a VGA to HDMI wire on ebay but could not get it to work. I tried it on both monitors with no luck.

VGA is analog, HDMI is digital. You can buy converters, but a simple wire won't do it. Look in the pc's manual (or online specs) to see if it can run 2 screens. If yes, try a HDMI > DVI adapter.

Looks like I'm going to have to get an adapter. The wire I bought only cost a few bucks on ebay. I had a HDMI port on my computer and a VGA on my second monitor so I figured it wouldn't hurt to try just the wire. I'll keep you updated.

Went to a yard sale yesterday and bought a second flat screen monitor for $3. It's an Acer AL1706, it works fine but it's a square shape. Only a VGA plug-in but I also bought 2 bags of of various wires/adapters /etc. for $20. Anyway one of the wires had a DVI plug-in on one end and a HDMI plug-in on the other. I didn't think it was going to work because I have DVI-D (dual link) and the cable had DVI-D (single link). I tried it anyway and got it to work. Got my dual monitor setup. Thanks to all responders.