Dual Monitors Not Recognized

[backroad]

I have installed an Nvidia 8400 GS card so that I can use two monitors in extended desktop configuration. (HP Pavillion, Win 7 64, Home Premium)

Neither Windows or the card recognize that two monitors are attached - although the same image appears on both monitors.

Could it be the spiltter cable? If so what specs am I looking for in a VGA or DVI-to-VGA splitter?

I am using the most current drivers available from NVidia.
Thanks.

 

[Mashed1316]

Hello there, and welcome to seven forums!

Have you tried using the Set Up Multiple Displays inside Nvidia's Control Panel?

That should do it

After attaching monitors, goto "Display Properties" under Control Panels (Windows), and click on the "Settings" Tab. Then, select Display: 2. Plug and Play Monitor on NVIDIA GeForce 8400 GS, and check the box for "Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor". Further you can click Advanced to see the NVIDIA Control Panel for further Dual Monitor setup choices.

 

[DocBrown]

Are you using a VGA Y-Splitter ? I think you need 2 separate outputs from your video card to extend it.

 

[Mashed1316]

Doc, the Nvidia 8400GS is "Dual Monitor" Capable, it's not necessary to use a "Y" splitter, connect 1 monitor to the VGA and the other monitor to the DVI and configure within windows or nvidia control panel, that's it

 

[backroad]

Neither the Nvidia nor Windows detects the second monitor.

I am using a Y type splitter as pictured above.

 

[alphanumeric]

The Y splitter is why both monitors display the same screen. The VGA connector can only ever send out one video signal. The Y splitter just sends an identical signal to both monitors. As far as the video card is concerned there is only one monitor connected. As mentioned you need to connect one monitor to the VGA connector and the other to the DVI connector. If both monitors only have VGA in you will need a DVI to VGA adapter for the second monitor.

 

[ashming]

I have an Nvidia 8400 GS card, DVI to VGA adapter for the second monitor and all i get is a screen with the desktop background and no toolbar or icons.. so its not controlable. I then downloaded vista nvidia 32bit graphics drivers as prescribed and still the same.. any ideas