Add Screen Space to Your Laptop When Working From Home

Check Your Ports

Most laptops today are designed with the ability to connect to a second monitor, primarily via HDMI connection. Find the HDMI port, or what other ports you may have:

Of course, you must also verify the port on your external display. HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI and VGA (HD15) are common video input ports on monitors and HDTVs.

Cables

If your laptop and display have a matching port, you simply need a cable with the appropriate connectors, like an HDMI-to-HDMI cable. Make sure the cable has adequate length to connect the two devices and also supports the resolution quality on your display.

Adapters

Adapter cables have different plugs on each end for connecting devices with different ports. Lighter, thinner laptops and tablets may lack a dedicated video port, so an adapter cable with a USB‑C or Thunderbolt 3 plug on one end (for your laptop) and an HDMI plug on the other (for your monitor) is a common solution.

Tripp Lite’s U444-003H USB‑C to HDMI adapter cable

If you have only a USB-A port available, you may need a USB-A to HDMI (female) adapter + an HDMI cable to connect the adapter to the monitor.

Some computers will only have one video port when you need to extend to two additional monitors. For these, consider using a cable splitter so you can get all the screen space you need.

Tripp Lite Connectivity Solutions

Tripp Lite has hundreds of cables and adapters available to connect your laptop, monitor and other devices you count on for productivity. Contact your local Accu-Tech representative to learn more.