Having Multiple Monitors

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SgtHK's avatar
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So earlier yesterday while I was upgrading computers in my dad's office I found this unused 17" 4:3 LCD monitor in a cabinet. I figured I could take it home and attach it to my PC as a secondary monitor. I've never experienced using 2 monitors before. But even though my monitor setup is assymetric (My main monitor is a 22" 16:10) once I got used to them, the benefits were immediately clear.

The real deal of it is that my work area is increased dramatically. I can have 2 maximized windows visible simultaneously. Here's one example of how I took advantage of this: (Sorry for the darkness)

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As you can see, in 3ds Max I can make my model in the main window while moving the Material Editor, the Environment and Effects, and the Render Control windows to the other monitor. That way I don't have to keep opening/closing them and I can concentrate on making my model. I can also see the extra gadgets on my Windows 7 desktop like the clock, the calendar, and most importantly the CPU/RAM meter.

Here is another one:

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I can put the reference material on the second monitor while I keep modeling in 3ds Max.

Have you ever tried to follow a tutorial where you constantly had to ALT+TAB to switch between the tutorial window and your main window? Well with dual monitors that problem was solved for me:

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I can keep the tutorial visible while I follow it unhindered in Photoshop.

And last but not the least:

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I can texture my models faster and more efficiently because I can keep both Photoshop and 3ds Max open in full view, thereby no need to ALT+TAB between them just to make even the most minor of changes.

Conclusion:
Having multiple monitors on your PC brings immediate benefits and increased productivity like the ones I mentioned above. So whenever you get the chance to have one more monitor on your desktop, I strongly advice that you grab it. It's definitely worthwhile.
© 2010 - 2024 SgtHK
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KypFox's avatar
I barely even know how to UV without a second monitor.
I blame work for spoiling me!