Changing Display Options in Windows

Learn how to manage the layout and orientation for multiple monitors and adjust the text/app sizing display on your Windows device.

Windows supports having multiple monitors connected to a computer as long as the hardware of the computer supports it. Adding an additional monitor can be very useful since you can extend your desktop to allow you to open more applications side by side (maybe try out the Windows Snap Feature from our previous blog post). With laptops, you even have the option of extending your displays by using the laptop screen with your second monitor. Only using one display and interested in adding another? Good news, most of the laptops and desktops that our clients are using support at least a second monitor to be connected.  Just reach out to us if you have any questions about doing this.  

Quickly Attach Monitor or Wireless Display Adapter

If you are wanting to quickly use a second monitor (make sure to connect it to your computer first) or attach a wireless display adapter (for example in the conference room), you can quickly do this by selecting the Windows Log Key  + P on your keyboard. This will open a menu on the right side of your screen and provide you with options on how you would like the second screen displayed.

If you are looking for the details settings and options, Windows 10 also provides access to these within the Settings Menu. Here is how you can access it:

Accessing Display Settings

1. Select the Start  Settings
   
   
2. In the settings window, choose System
   
3. If not opened by default, make sure to choose “Display” from the left pane.
   

Adjusting Display Settings

Now that you are in the main display settings you can go through the following options:

1. Adjust Scale and Text Sizing: This percentage value will allow you to increase or decrease the overall size of text and apps.
   NOTE: Going past the default settings may affect some applications. The Default number is 100%.
   
   
2. Rearrange display placements: For individuals that have more than one monitor, this allows you to configure the representation of how the screens are physically on your desk. Adjusting the location of the monitors will help you logically move your cursor between the two screens. Using the “Identify” button will place a temporary label in the bottom right corner of each monitor to help identify them. Selecting and then dragging the monitor to the correct position then choose “Apply” will make the change.
   
3. Multiple Display Options: This option at the bottom of the display settings list, allows for you to change the behavior of a multiple screen. Once you select one of the monitors from the “Rearrange Displays” section, you can then go to this option and choose from the following:
   1. Extend Desktop to this display: This means it will allow both monitors to host their own video display.
   2. Duplicated desktop on # and #: This option will make the selected monitors mirror each other and display the exact same things.
   3. You can choose the “Make this my main display” option to assign the select monitor as the primary monitor for applications to open on or the Windows Cortona search to be listed on.
      

We understand many of you have encountered unique work environments since the pandemic and we hope that these tips and tricks help no matter where you are located.