Using a Library computer as a second monitor for your laptop

How do I use a Library computer as a second monitor for my laptop?

Answer ID 3241 | Last updated on 22/01/2024 11.18 AM

Most Library computers are equipped with a KVM (Keyboard Video Mouse) switch, a device which allows you to connect your laptop and use a Library computer's monitor and/or keyboard and mouse. You can use the Library computer's monitor as a second monitor or simply mirror and enlarge your laptop's display.

Library computers with a KVM can be identified by a button attached to the base of the monitor. Follow the instructions below to connect your laptop or visit the Information Desk for assistance.

  1. Locate the three bundled KVM cables, there will be one HDMI cable (black plug) and two USB cables (black and purple plugs)
  2. Connect the black HDMI cable into the HDMI socket of your device (this will provide display/video output from your device)
  3. Connect only the purple USB cable into the USB socket of your device (this will connect the Library computer's keyboard and mouse which you can use to control your device if you wish)
  4. Press the black button on the base of the Library computer's monitor. If you do not see your laptop display appearing on the Library computer's monitor, you may need to adjust your display settings on your device to output accordingly. If you have a Windows laptop, by default the computer monitor will be a mirror of your laptop monitor. If you wish to set this up as a second independent monitor you will need to 'extend' the display. This can be done by pressing the Windows logo key + P and selecting the 'Extend' option. More information is available for configuring and extending displays for Windows and Mac.
  5. When you have finished, unplug the cables and please press the black button to reset the display, mouse and keyboard back to the Library computer for the next user.
 
 
Step 1: cables
 
 
Step 4: KVM source button
 

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