I don't recall if it will matter, but there are analog LCDs and digital LCDs. I believe that typically analog LCDs will have a VGA (analog) connector.

What I don't recall is if you can go from a VGA port to a VGA to DVI adapter to a DVI input on a DIGITAL LCD monitor or not. I don't believe it would hurt anything to try it...just might not work.

My video card is the same way. I have an older 19" CRT hooked to the VGA port and a newer 19" LCD monitor hooked to the DVI port. I intend to get a new LCD to replace the CRT...so at least one of the LCDs will have to go to the VGA port. I current LCD can use either a VGA or DVI cable. This is what make me think that you should not have a problem using the VGA to DVI adapter with a digital monitor...I believe it just won't gain the benefit of a digital signal (I believe it is a litle sharper).

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[soapbox] Backup good...no backup bad!! [/soap box]

I would say you want one monitor using true DVI. The other monitor you can try the VGA to DVI adapter to allow you to plug the DVI cable from the second monitor...UNLESS that second monitor has a VGA cable already.

The only way you would need a DVI to VGA adapter is if your monitors have a VGA input. That did not seem to be the case from your original post. If one of your monitors has a VGA and DVI in point, then use that monitor with the VGA port and the other monitor with the DVI port. Everything should be fine in that situation.

The only thing that I am not sure of is what will happen with a VGA to DVI adapter for a digital LCD monitor with only a DVI input. I don't believe it will be problem, but as I have never done it myself, I don't know if it will be a problem or not.

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[soapbox] Backup good...no backup bad!! [/soap box]

Depending on the monitor, you might have to switch inputs or modes (i.e. analog to digital) using controls on the front of the monitor. Some monitors can actual have two computers hooked up to them. My old CRT has a component input (like the way CADD work stations used to work) that will allow me to have two computers hooked up and I can hit a button to switch between the two inputs. My Dad's one LCD is that same way except it is a analog VGA input and a digital DVI input. In theory, he can toggle between the two with each hooked to a different computer.

The other issue is making sure that Windoze KNOWS that you want to use two monitors. You have to go into the monitor prefs. Right-click anywhere on the blank desktop with both monitors hooked up and select Properties. Select the Settings tab. You should see a representation of your two monitors, but more than likely one will be greyed out. Click on the greyed out monitors "icon" and then select "Extend my Windoze desktop onto this monitor". Bingo...it should now work (unless you do need to switch the input signal or some such). You can also use the representations of those monitor to "arrange" where the two desktops are relative to each other (i.e. put on "on top" of the other or side by side...which on on which side, etc) and you can set resolution and color quality. And the Advanced tab will allow more advanced control, including setting the refresh rate if you want.

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[soapbox] Backup good...no backup bad!! [/soap box]