2nd monitor for G4 tower

[Mark Dodson]

I have some extra monitors here and could use one to make a dual set up on my G4 tower (later model dual 1.42 GHz).  Not clear whether an additional video card is needed or how to physically connect it, and googling for a solution isn't turning up any definite answers.  Would appreciate any advice if anyone's done this.

Mark

[Terry Johnson]

I think a second video card is required if you want to run two monitors, but one of the gurus like Chris would probably know for certain.

[Michael Martin]

I'll take a stab at it.

Depending on the video card you have in your G4, there may or may not be support for a 2nd monitor on it.  (If it has only 1 DVI or VGA connector on it, you may be out of luck).  Also, certain models of the G4 Powermac support AGP / PCI video cards -- and some are VERY Specific to the Mac.

I'm going to guess that there's only one video port available on your card. In that case, you will need to get another PCI based videocard and put it in your G4.  The good news is that it should take all of about 10 minutes (if you go slow) to get the new PCI video card in there.  The Mac OS should be able to see it on wake up and display a second desktop surface on your other connected screen.

If you go see Ruth Pung / Scott @Microcenter or Peter D'Angelo at Compusa (Marietta), they should be able to point you to some video cards that may be in stock for you.

Mike

[Chris Waldrip]

Yep. You'll need a second video card. :-)