Using PC monitor and macbook simultaneously

[danman458]

Hi all -

Hoping for some help with this I would like to use my macbook and a Dell monitor simultaneously controlled through an external keyboard/mouse. What do I need to set this up?

I want to double the amount of "screen space" and use a keyboard and mouse for both.

Thanks!

 

[macgrl]

Do you have the cables to connect from the macbook to the monitor?

If so connect them up. Go to system preferences and displays. Your second monitor should be shown there. Make sure that the settings are not for mirrored and away you go.

 

[danman458]

I have the blue monitor cable for the pc but I think I need a converter to hook it up to the mac right?

Thanks for your help!!!

 

[macgrl]

What is the input on the monitor? That will determine what adapter / cable you need. Glad to help

 

[Flynnstone]

I do this all the time, except it's not a Dell.

You need either the miniDVI to VGA or miniDVI to DVI adapter.
Last time I bought, they were about $17 US.

(If you have a DVI to HDMI adapter, you can connect the MacBook to a HD TV)