A Step by Step Guide to Installing a New Monitor to the Computer

So, today is the day you decide to connect your computer and monitor. You take the monitor and monitor cable out of the box, go through the manual, and the next thing you know, you’re sitting on the floor, stressed out. Wondering where to start? Being a company that sells computer accessories online, we often come across customers who inquire about computer cables and how to go about connecting their computer systems.

So, how do I set up a new monitor? Let’s go through this step-by-step guide!

Level Up Your Workspace:

Before we plunge into the actual act, let's understand the battlefield. Here's what you'll need:

• The New Recruit:

  Your shiny new monitor, gleaming with potential.

• The Cable Cavalry:

  An army of cables (power, display, maybe USB) to connect your monitor to the computer. Consult your monitor's manual to identify the specific types you need.

• The Tools of the Trade:

  A screwdriver and possibly a cable organizer if you enjoy neatness (and sanity).

• The Instruction Codex:

  Your monitor's user manual – your trusty guide to deciphering the port landscape.

Mission Prep:

Before unleashing the cables, prepare your workspace:

1. Power Down:

   Shut down your computer and disconnect the old monitor (if present).

2. Clear the Landing Zone:

   Make space for the new monitor, ensuring good ventilation and easy access to its back panel.

3. Unboxing with Care:

   Gently unpack your monitor, following the manual's instructions. Remember, size matters – enlist a comrade for bulky displays.

How to Connect a Monitor to PC with USB?The kind of USB ports that are accessible on the PC and the monitor determines whether a USB cable can be used to connect them. The various methods are as follows:

1. Using USB-C to USB-C (if both monitor & PC support USB-C Display)

• You can use a USB-C to USB-C connection to connect your PC and monitor directly if your PC has a USB-C port with DisplayPort output and your monitor has a USB-C connector that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode.

• Steps:

• Connect the USB-C cable to your computer at one end.

• Insert the other end into the monitor's USB-C connector.

• Press the input/source button on the monitor and choose the appropriate input if the display doesn't recognize it automatically.

2. Using USB-C to HDMI/DisplayPort Adapter

• A USB-C to HDMI/DP adaptor is required if your PC has USB-C but your monitor only has HDMI or DisplayPort.

• Steps:

• Attach your PC to the USB-C adaptor.

• Attach the adapter to the monitor using an HDMI/DisplayPort cable.

• Select the appropriate source for the monitor input.

3. Using a USB to HDMI/DisplayPort Adapter (For USB-A Ports)

• You will want a USB-A to HDMI or DisplayPort adapter if your computer only has USB-A ports (the rectangular ones) and does not support USB-C with DisplayPort.

• Steps:

• Insert the USB adapter into a PC USB-A port.

• Attach the adapter's HDMI/DisplayPort wire to the monitor.

• Install any required drivers, which are often included with the adapter.

• On your monitor, choose the appropriate input.

4. Using a Docking Station (For Multiple Connections)

• A USB-C docking station offers additional USB ports for devices and the ability to connect a monitor via DisplayPort or HDMI.

• Steps:

  1. Use USB-C to connect the dock to your PC.

  2. Use DisplayPort or HDMI to connect the display to the dock.

  3. On the monitor, select the appropriate input.

5. USB to USB (Limited to Some Monitors)

• Although it is uncommon, some monitors (such as Dell's UltraSharp line) support USB display over USB-A or USB-C.

• If your monitor supports this:

  1. On your computer, install the required DisplayLink drivers.

  2. Attach the USB cable between the PC and the monitor.

  3. It should recognize the monitor as a display.

Original Source: https://www.sfcable.com/blog/guide-installing-new-monitor-computer