USB to DVI Adapters--2nd External Display for iMac

[scottness]

Ok, I'm looking at adding a 2nd external display to my iMac. I've currently got a 20" iMac with a 24" external, would like to add another 24" if it's a good idea. I'd love a 27" iMac, etc, but it's not in the budget.

I've been looking at USB to DVI adapters as a solution. Anybody have experience with these? Are they any good?

http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Newer Technology/VIDU2DVIA/

 

[Badger^2]

So 3 screens total?

You really dont have much of a choice... so not really sure its gonna matter.

I cant answer if its a "good idea" or not. Is there some reason you need 3 screens?

 

[scottness]

So 3 screens total?

You really dont have much of a choice... so not really sure its gonna matter.

I cant answer if its a "good idea" or not. Is there some reason you need 3 screens?

Yep, three screens.

I guess I should have asked, is it worth it to set this up, or should I really just save for a MacPro or 27" iMac? (both are overkill for me) It's more for online trading/research where I often have a bazillion windows open, and another screen would help a lot.

Also, this doesn't support OpenGL. Will this be a problem if I'm not using it for movies or presentations? Any help is appreciated!

Anyone have experience using these?

 

[izibo]

The video card in the iMac only supports one additional screen. There are 3rd party solutions that "split" a video feed to two monitors, but I haven't heard much about these in the past few years. They probably wouldn't work that well, regardless.

Your best bet is to purchase a Mac Pro and adding an additional graphics card (stock card can power two monitors).

Edit: matrox sells an item here

 

[Badger^2]

I trust OWC, so Im not sure they would sell something that wouldnt work, but I would have to assume there are limitations. Might be worth a call.

Have you thought about using Spaces?

Can be really really handy.

If you need a lot of web sites open, use a different browser in each Space.

 

[mattwolfmatt]

I'd go with the matrox over the mac pro. The mac pro seems like overkill for just about everyone (save mabye, I dunno, gamers or video editors or something . . . )

I've thought about a 3rd screen for my MBP too. I just love having two screens and there are many times when it would be nice to have three. But the $250 for the Matrox and then the $250 or whatever or the third monitor . . . that's a lot of bucks for a luxury on top of a luxury. At least for my needs.