Within windows, you can use a feature that is pretty powerful to increase your productivity. This is the windows multiple monitor feature. Imagine having a document on your computer that you need to see while you type another document. This is what the double monitor feature allows you to do.

This feature is supported nicely in Windows XP. You can have a smaller monitor off to the right while you type your document on your main monitor.

To use this feature, you will need to buy a video card that supports multiple monitors. ATI manufactures a great video card called the VGA All In Wonder. You can pick this card up at your local computer super store for around $100.00.

If all you want to do is use the two monitor feature and are not big into games or multi tasking many programs at once, then this is all you will need. However, if you like to play high graphic games, then you will want to get a video card with a good amount of memory. Just ask the sales person at the store to help you. Make sure they understand what it is exactly, you are trying to do.

Once you purchase the video card, if you can install it yourself then great. If not, then see if the store can do it for you or find a knowledgeable friend to help you out. Just having a friend install the card, can save you anywhere from $50.00 to $100.00.

After the video card is installed, it's time to hook up your second monitor to number two VGA output of the video card.

All you will really need is a cheap monitor for your 2nd monitor. Look in your local phone book for used computer dealers or on the internet. Just go to Google and type in "used computer monitors" and your location. This should allow you to find somewhere close to your home.

Using the multiple monitor feature in Windows.

Once you have everything set up with both monitors in place. Turn on the other monitor in Windows. You do this by clicking on your main desktop and selecting properties from the pop up menu. Next you need to click on the setting tab. Here you will see the numbers 1 and 2 in bold white letters. Click the number 2 and you should see two little check boxes off to the left. Click on the one that reads, extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor. If you other monitor was off and the light was just blinking, then doing this should turn it on.

Once the 2nd monitor is turned on, all you have to do is open whatever application you want and resize it to half screen. Then, just drag it all the way to the other screen. You should now be able to move your mouse and applications freely between both monitors.