Finally getting round to odering desktop with dual monitors

Finally getting round to odering desktop with...

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As you may know from my previous thread I intend to move to a desktop with dual monitors. I have tried to deal with this on my own but failed to understand. I am really confused about what I should order and what I should leave out.

Here is what I intend to order:

  1. Here are 2 Monitors from I tend to buy from Amazon.
  2. Here is dell desktop I intend to buy

My questions:

  • Is it best to buy 64bit or 32bit  Windows? If so, will my software be compatabile wiith this? Taxcalc, VT and moneysoft.
  • For dual monitors do I need to buy anything else. Graphics card? Please provide a link
  • What sort of mount should I buy? Please prvide a link.
  • Anything else I need to buy. Please provide links.

Thanks

Replies (24)

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By orchardacc
17th Jul 2011 11:53

Did you make that call?

I wondered, i just wondered!!!

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By ShirleyM
17th Jul 2011 12:08

Dual's

The easiest way is to buy an external dual monitor adaptor, and this can be transferred to another PC in the future if your PC should fail. We just use the normal monitor stands and don't try to mount them on anything.

Personally, I have had bad experiences with Dell's, so I would avoid them, but hopefully your experiences have been OK.

EDIT: the general move is towards 64 bit. We have 32 bit in the office, but I have 64 bit at home. VT & TaxCalc work fine on both, but I am still on MS Office 2003. I can't advise on later versions of MS Office.

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By petersaxton
17th Jul 2011 12:35

My advice

“Here is what I intend to order:”

“Here are 2 Monitors (x2) from I tend to buy from Amazon.”

Why get 24”? I have got 32” and you can see more. Mine are Samsung TVs but the resolution is good enough.

http://www.samsung.com/uk/consumer/tv-audio-video/television/lcd-tv/LE32D580K2KXXU/index.idx?pagetype=prd_detail

This are the most expensive 32" but there are several cheaper. I got mine from Currys at Colliers Wood.

“Here is dell desktop I intend to buy”

That seems fine.

“My questions:”

“Is it best to buy 64bit or 32bit  Windows? If so, will my software be compatabile wiith this? Taxcalc, VT and moneysoft.”

A lot of software wont work with 64bit Windows so I would avoid it.

“For dual monitors do I need to buy anything else. Graphics card? Please provide a link”

The graphics card with your PC supports four displays already.

“What sort of mount should I buy? Please prode a link.”

To keep my desk free I went to Ikea at Croydon and found a long thin desk which was idea to place my monitors on. You would need to measure your present desk and monitors to ensure you get what’s needed.

“Anything else I need to buy. Please provide links.”

I use UltraMon. All I do with it is switch windows between screens and very occassionally spread a window across the two screens.

http://www.realtimesoft.com/ultramon/

 

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By User deleted
17th Jul 2011 12:39

32 bit

I've got 64-bit and have regretted it. If I change in the future I'd go back to 32 bit. I don't see its made any positive difference but there are some bits of software that won't run on 64 bit. (Taxcalc, VT & Moneysoft are all fine though)(the old VT Transaction won't do 64 bit which is a real shame as I loved that)

I've got a Dell and its okay. I wouldn't say it was necessarily the best or the preferred - I was recommended it by a mate who could get a deal and knows more about pc spec than I do (not difficult!). My issue is the 64 bit. If I was 32 bit everything might be plain sailing, I don't know. I've got a dell all-in-one printer scanner etc - wouldn't recommend it - having upgraded my BT hub it won't do wireless (that might be BT's fault or firewall or something) and the automatic feeder for the scanner (the reason I bought it) can be tempramental so I end up standing next to it instead of letting it get on with it.

I used to have 2 screens and changed to one big one - works better for me as the bits I'm looking at are right next to each other so my eyes don't have to move much - easier to work (not lazy eyes!). I've got Windows 7 so its got that snapping windows function (where you can fix one window to one half of the screen and vice versa) - I use it a lot. It's a 24-inch screen and probably something bigger still would be even better (but don't think I can justify buying a new one - Flash makes mental note to have a quick look-see on Amazon, 'just in case')

 

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By petersaxton
17th Jul 2011 12:49

Don't forget the cats

“I've got a dell all-in-one printer scanner etc - wouldn't recommend it - having upgraded my BT hub it won't do wireless (that might be BT's fault or firewall or something) and the automatic feeder for the scanner (the reason I bought it) can be tempramental so I end up standing next to it instead of letting it get on with it.”

All in ones are always built down to a price. I have a separate printer (HP Color LaserJet 2605dn), a Canon fax, a Samsung photocopier, and two scanners (one is an HP flatbed). My latest scanner is a Fujitsu ScanSnap s1500 – it sits near my desk and is fast and simple. It’s not TWAIN compatible but if all you want to do is to scan to your hard disk it’s fantastic.

“I used to have 2 screens and changed to one big one - works better for me as the bits I'm looking at are right next to each other so my eyes don't have to move much - easier to work (not lazy eyes!). I've got Windows 7 so its got that snapping windows function (where you can fix one window to one half of the screen and vice versa) - I use it a lot. It's a 24-inch screen and probably something bigger still would be even better (but don't think I can justify buying a new one - Flash makes mental note to have a quick look-see on Amazon, 'just in case')”

I wanted one massive monitor – say 46” – but I am glad I went for two 32” monitors. It’s much more flexible. I can even leave a gap between them and see my cats playing in the garden.

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By User deleted
17th Jul 2011 12:55

Cats

One of my cats thinks that the printer / scanner is purrfect (sorry) - he curls up on top of it. I don't think the fur will really help but I'm sure if I get a cover for it I'll be unpopular & he'll take it out on the sofa again. If I do change at some point I think I'll get a separate printer & separate scanner - its nice having just one machine (one less wire to be chewed!) but the hassle value...... I went all-in-one originally to get a fax as well but I use a pdf fax instead so that bit is unused.

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By User deleted
17th Jul 2011 14:50

I have ...

... my two monitors on a stand, they are on articulated arms so I can swing thm round to show things to clients. This was they take up no desk space. Personally, when you are sitting a couple of foot from a monitor, 32" is too big.

I have a really good IT guy who handles all our network and hardware needs, he may well come to you as he is only in Datchet - pm me if you want his number.

From experience it  is best two order a PC with built in facility for dual screens rather than adding cards etc later!

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By abelljms
18th Jul 2011 08:47

there is another way...?

I tried ‘duel’ monitors.

Drawbacks=

when it crashes everything goescertain apps refuse to re-open windows where you last displayed them, so it’s hard to get your dual desktop laid out the way u want itit is crucial you decide which telly is the primary one, and write it down and remember it, as when BillG goes assets skywards that’s the only telly you get a picture on.remember that running two TVs increases load on the  amstrad so exercise caution.

I went back to having two PCs next to each other as I can use both independently.

Of course if you want to be clever you do what I do, and have remote access to several machines, and just use screen switching. An example of this is when running apps like scanning, which persistently GRAB the screen between each page, can be set off on another machine, but managed from one machine without the irritations!

Another advantage of screen switching is that many of the utilities e.g. TeamViewer allow you to paste between screens which evades a possible downside of not running dual monitors.

PS. Be careful about all those adapter thingies – newer tellies use those white connectors instead of blue ones. Any graphics card you buy must have the right holes otherwise u r snookered. Most of my monitors seem to have both holes. Again I have found the new sockets less reliable than the old-style, but may be that’s just me.

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By paulwakefield1
18th Jul 2011 09:17

For info

does anybody have a note of significant software that does not run on 64 bit Windows? I run 64 bit and have not had any problems at all and so have no experience of the issues. It would be useful to know for when talking to clients.

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By cverrier
18th Jul 2011 10:00

64-bit

Most current software should be fine on 64-bit.  I'm not aware of any that doesn't work.

64-bit Windows does demand 64-bit hardware drivers, which have to be re-written by the manufacturer.  If you have older printers/scanners, then you should check you can get 64-bit drivers.

Stay away from 64-bit version of Microsoft Office though - it doesn't really deliver any benefits (unless you like HUGE Excel sheets) and quite a lot of add-ons won't support it.

 

 

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By pauljohnston
21st Jul 2011 11:50

A bit sad that many are anti 64bit

I have used it since January and all our software works well on it, there is an XP mode for older software.  Some machines (printers etc) dont have 64 bit drivers. 

All new machinery comes with 64 bit drivers so perhaps plan to change when the machine (printers etc) are replaced.

The stability of 64 bit is superb.

 

 

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By pauljohnston
21st Jul 2011 11:55

A bit sad that many are anti 64bit

I have used it since January and all our software works well on it, there is an XP mode for older software.  Some machines (printers etc) dont have 64 bit drivers. 

All new machinery comes with 64 bit drivers so perhaps plan to change when the machine (printers etc) are replaced.

The stability of 64 bit is superb.

As to dual monitors we always use new driver cards from say Matrox and never have had any problems.  I dont know about USB adapters though.  Productivity is 30% + .  Some are now using 3 screens.  I recently saw a 24" with two 17" and that looked great.

With regard to your desktop computer I suggest that you may do better taking your spec to your local computer shop.  I did, it was cheaper just but the main advantage is that they will point out any downfalls in your ideas - in my case that I did not need more than 4gb of ram.

 

 

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By paul_hills
21st Jul 2011 13:01

Operating system and RAM

No one appears to have mentioned the fact that the dell pc comes with 16gb ram which is great if you have a 64 bit operating system, but if you did opt for 32 bit it would only actually use about 3.5 - 4gb and can not use or read any more, that is one of the main limitations of 32 bit.

The computer you have chosen has a great spec and will accept 2 monitors without an extra graphics card. The monitor you have chosen has a DVI-D connector of which your PC only has only has one, but if you get a DVI-D to VGA adaptor or a DVI-D to HDMI adaptor you will be able connect both up as the graphics card has one DVD-D, one VGA and one HDMI.

I would say go for a 64 bit system as others have said the software you use will work, check that any printers or scanners you use have 64 bit drivers available first though.

My firm is slow on the uptake of dual monitors but those that have got it all rave about it and all their monitors are generally only 19"! So I think dual is the way forward and you proposed setup looks great.

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By petersaxton
21st Jul 2011 13:13

6 Gb ram

"No one appears to have mentioned the fact that the dell pc comes with 16gb ram"

Is that because the specification only says 6 Gb ram?

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By richardterhorst
22nd Jul 2011 12:41

Two monitors are great for productivity

I use 64bit Windows 7. No problems with any software, old or new.

MS Office 2010. Stay away from 64bit. Many programs do not work with it. The 32bit is included on the disk.

I use 2 monitors, trying for 3 but motherboard limited (damn it!)

Many pc's have on board graphics. This is single outlet so you need a graphics card with two outlets. Does not matter if one is HDMI and the other VGA. Just gives one monitor a better resolution that the other.

Using a graphics card disables the on board, so if contemplating three monitors you need slots for two graphic cards on motherboard or quad graphics card - expensive those.

I only use build PC's as that gives customisation and often better price. I use PC Specialist. Can recommend them. You can build and price your machine online and then order your configuration.

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By petersaxton
22nd Jul 2011 18:37

Feedback?

FirstTab.

Did you order two monitors and computer?

What did you order?

What do you think of them?

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FT
By FirstTab
17th Aug 2011 18:05

Feedback

I finally got round to doing everthing. My dual monitors and the new desktop were setup today.

This is what I bought:

Dell Vostro it is the one for £549 reduced from £729 (last one on the right)bought another monitor same as you see above 23"Bought another 2 years extended warrant (waste of money).

I have only been working for couple of hours on dual monitors. Early to say but I already see massive productivity gains from dual monitors.

Boxes were not opened for a week because of my worry about  if this was right and if I would be able to set it up. I am a subsriber to Virgin Digital help, they helped (online) with the setup of dual monitors. I would not have been able to do this on my own.

Dual monitors are great. Should have gone for this far earlier.

 

 

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Replying to YolandaCollins:
By petersaxton
17th Aug 2011 20:39

My view

 

“Dell Vostro it is the one for £549 reduced from £729 (last one on the right)”

It looks good. I prefer to get small hard disks in desktops and have a large network drive. Unfortunately, it’s not easy to do with ready built computers because smaller hard disks usually mean smaller RAM and smaller monitors as well.

“bought another monitor same as you see above 23" “

The bigger the better.

“Bought another 2 years extended warrant (waste of money).”

So why did you buy it?

“I am a subsriber to Virgin Digital help, they helped (online) with the setup of dual monitors. I would not have been able to do this on my own.”

You can get subscriptions for support like this. I prefer telephone support. You can even pay for some support through your phone bill. It is always best to know somebody for onsite support.

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By pauljohnston
17th Aug 2011 18:14

Well Done

You wont regret it.

If you have a secretary or assistant consider doing the same for him/her although you may get away with installing a dual graphics card (£39 + VAT) in his or her current PC

 

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FT
By FirstTab
17th Aug 2011 22:25

Extended Warranty

The extended warranty I thought better to be safe. Generally I have found computers do not go wrong for the first three years. I spoke to a Dell sales rep, he sold it be well plus he offered £75 discount on top of already discounted price of the package  if I bought the extended warranty.

The cost of warranty is  £125. I said to myself lets go for it. On reflection I should not have fallen for this.

 

 

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Replying to Roger.Thornton:
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By pauljohnston
18th Aug 2011 19:25

Support

I find that a local company offer better support than a telephone helpdesk.

Although it is not cheap around £60 ph it does mean that you are up and working quickly.

I am not sure why Peter likes small hard drives.  The newer drives and larger drives say 500gb and above benefit from the most upto date technology and are newer since the smaller ones are not now made.  That is his choice though.

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By petersaxton
18th Aug 2011 19:43

"I am not sure why Peter

"I am not sure why Peter likes small hard drives.  The newer drives and larger drives say 500gb and above benefit from the most upto date technology and are newer since the smaller ones are not now made.  That is his choice though."

I thought I'd explained it. Having a large hard disk on a desktop is a waste of money as I prefer to have a large NAS drive which is just as fast and more flexible between computers. If anything goes wrong with your computer which has a large hard drive in then you have to mess about taking it out and put it in another computer to access the data. If I have a problem with my computer I just access the NAS drive from another computer. That's your choice though.

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By pauljohnston
19th Aug 2011 18:17

Peter - Thank you

I think we are at cross purposes.  What you suggest is in mho absolutely right.  I was just commenting that small drives are older technology and no longer manuafactured.  My Pc has a 500 gb drive - no data files and about 80gb of program files.  The data files are on NAS x2, one is a backup of the other

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By petersaxton
19th Aug 2011 19:05

Agreed - it's all relative

Yes, you need a fast hard disk for your operating system. The OPs hard disk is 1 Tb. I use that on a NAS with another 1 Tb for backup. I admit I have two 0.4 Tb hard disks in my desktop but I certainly wouldnt bother now.

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