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Considerations for a Multi-Monitor PC

 


Considerations for Multiple Monitors on Your PC



As multi-monitor systems become more common, CPU Solutions would like to take a moment to help outline considerations users should be aware of when setting up a system with multiple monitors.



Graphics Chipsets - NVIDIA & ATI

All video cards come down to two chipset manufacturers; NVIDIA and ATI (Although video cards come in many brands including ASUS, PNY, EVGA, etc.). Both chipsets perform neck in neck in benchmarks, with the newest model video cards scoring the best in performance. Neither NVidia nor ATI is the "best" brand. Most users shop for video cards based on benchmark performance scores.

Users who do gaming tend to choose the fastest model video cards for their multi-monitor setups while users who just need multiple displays usually have a wider range of options to choose from. In most cases, a multi-monitor setup can be achieved through the use of the multiple outputs on the video card (3-4) or by adding another video card (5-8).

If you are not gaming and are simply looking for a multiple monitor solution you can purchase pretty much any video card(s) that suit your budget.


NVIDIA & ATI Drivers

The main difference between NVIDIA and ATI comes down to the setup process for enabling multiple monitors and their configurations. This setup process is controlled mostly by the video card "Drivers" provided by either manufacturer. In the latest Windows operating systems, you can manage the basic multi-monitor setup options easily and if further modifications need to be managed, the control panels for NVIDIA or ATI would be where to find those settings.

The differences between these drivers are what the average user's consideration should be when configuring a multiple monitor system.

We have learned through experience that the NVIDIA setup process seems to be more user friendly. While these drivers give users limited control over some of the more technical functions of their video cards, they provide a quick and headache free setup process for a multiple monitor system.

The ATI drivers for most video cards give users more control over the technical functions, while requiring a much more in-depth setup process and knowledge of the ATI software to configure multiple monitors.


Multi-Monitor Recommendations

NVIDIA video cards would suit the needs of both the average and advanced users while providing a straight forward setup process for a multiple monitor system. ATI setups are better suited for users who enjoy configuring their systems and delving into the technical details of their hardware, drivers, and software.

If you are looking for an easy, one click solution for a multi-monitor system we recommend purchasing NVIDIA setups with your PC configuration. If you are looking for advanced features and the ability to fine tune technical functions of your video card, and willing to purchase additional adapters if needed, then an ATI video card may provide a good solution for your needs.