[KesterSmith]

I would like to upgrade my Acer Aspire X3200 desktop pc so that I can have dual or even triple screen capabilities. I have been lead to beleive I will need a video card. I am happy with the graphics currently but I need another VGA slot.

Does anyone know what sort of video card I would need to get that would fit into this unit? It is small form factor so Im not sure most would fit. Also I'm looking for the cheapest possible, it doesnt need to be powerful, just give me dual screen. Also, I'm in the UK.
If you need me to give any more info, I'm happy to.

Really hope someone can help, thanks!
Kes

[Gr3iz]

According to the specs for that system, you've got an HDMI output. It's possible that you can run a monitor off that in addition to the 15-pin VGA connector.

[KesterSmith]

So, I'll need a HDMI cable? I was lead to believe a converter would be expensive. Will a simple HDMI ==> VGA cable solve my problem?
Thanks for you help.

[Gr3iz]

Not sure. Some flat panels have HDMI inputs. If you don't already have your second monitor, that might be an option ...

[KesterSmith]

I already have a monitor but it's pretty old so it only has HDMI. Do you think this cable will work? http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/1-8-Meters-HDM...d=p3286.c0.m14

[KesterSmith]

Sorry, only has VGA. Doesn't have HDMI

[Gr3iz]

Yeah, I was gonna say, if it's old, it most likely does *not* have HDMI.

I couldn't say whether that cable will work or not.

I can't even assure you that you can run two monitors with the single card you've got. Most dual-headed cards you can.

[KesterSmith]

OK, thanks. It's not too expensive, so I'll try it

[Gr3iz]

Good luck! Let us know how you make out.

[KesterSmith]

Well the cable arrived. I connected it and then opened the nVidia control panel which has a section for dual view.
My computer seems to have detected the second screen but the screen is receiving no information. It constantly says "Cable Not Connected".
I have tried switching the cables back and forth, same problem either way.
Any suggestions?

[Gr3iz]

Make sure the resolution and refresh rate are within the 2nd monitor's capabilities. Otherwise, it was a valiant effort. Perhaps a newer monitor would work? Perhaps not ...

[smurfpapa]

I am in the process of doing the exact same thing. You will need a monitor with either an hdmi input or dvi input. You will not be able to drive a monitor with analog inputs (vga) with hdmi (digital) unless you use some kind of converter.
Your monitor needs to have some form of digital inputs. The inputs may be either hdmi or dvi. If your monitor supports dvi then you will need to know which dvi input you have and if it is single or dual link. Hope this helps