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Can we connect a LAPTOP to an external monitor ? Here is my problem -> Compaq Presario Laptop Monitor Problems

I want to buy a external monitor but the problem is that they come at huge cost and probably getting a new laptop or netbook seems wiser. So I am looking for cheap solutions .

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  • External monitors are quite cheap and keep getting cheaper. You can find a 19" LCD for under a 100 in the states now. Would be cheaper than replacing the laptop, but not nearly as portable.
    – BBlake
    Mar 16, 2010 at 21:06

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You can certainly connect a laptop to an external graphical output, be it CRT monitor, LCD monitor or projector, as long as the laptop has a VGA output (which it should). This is usually located on the back edge of the laptop (or occasionally the side).

There will be a key combination - often Fn+F5 to switch between the various modes. You might need to do this every time you reboot as diverting (or replicating) the output is a Windows level action.

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  • My current LCD is botched up so I dont need Fn+F5 options as of now . Where is the VGA Output of the Laptop ? I removed the Bezel and took out the LCD Panel . It has 2 wires going to the LCD Panel . One is a paralell port and the the other looks like Power .
    – user31256
    Mar 16, 2010 at 20:45
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    VGA output will be on the side or back of the laptop. You definitely do NOT need to take the laptop apart to used the output!
    – Chris_K
    Mar 16, 2010 at 20:49
  • @Chris_K - cheers, I should have pointed that out!
    – ChrisF
    Mar 16, 2010 at 20:54
  • Thanks , dont worry I didnt do this after you said , I did the before itself ! But very useful info .
    – user31256
    Mar 16, 2010 at 21:03
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    @Nishant - yes that's the port and a normal VGA cable will fit. You might be able make it dedicated, but a quick search for "compaq presario external monitor" showed up a couple of forums where people were asking the same question and the answer seemed to be that you couldn't. However, a more dedicated search might reveal an answer.
    – ChrisF
    Mar 16, 2010 at 21:33
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As long as the laptop has a VGA, HDMI or DVI port you definitely can connect an external monitor.

In fact, even if it doesn't have any video ports (unlikely) you could even look into a USB video adapter. But that may not be nearly as cost effective.

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