It's time for a confession. I've been envious of people that use dual monitors. It has nothing to do with image or status as that's a waste of energy. The problem was I didn't want to deal with video cards and money for another monitor. My current desk size was also an issue as there wasn't room to add another monitor. I was elated to find a Windows utility that allows me to use my old notebook with a network connection as the second monitor. This economical arrangement can boost your productivity.

What I found was a small Windows utility called MaxiVista that allows me to use my notebook as an additional monitor. I can spread out my applications so that one set is on my desktop and the other on my notebook. As a result, I'm less inclined to minimize windows or switch tasks.

I had few doubts that I would benefit from a second monitor. I had read articles suggesting productivity could be increased between 9% and 50%. I've also had programmers tell me getting another monitor had the biggest impact on their productivity.

Despite people suggesting I get another monitor, there always seemed something strange about the setup to me. It's a much different experience watching someone else use this configuration. You almost wonder if the mouse cursor has fallen on the floor as they move it from one monitor to another.

Advantages of a Second Monitor

After linking my notebook as a second monitor, I quickly saw the advantages. At first, I thought I would use this arrangement when I needed to do documentation. After playing with this arrangement, I'm not going back as there are just too many ways I can benefit. With this new configuration, I can:

• Use software on one monitor and take notes on the other
  
• Watch a WebCast on one monitor and take notes on the other
  
• Keep my Microsoft Outlook calendar view open on one monitor and work on the other
  
• Run a program on one monitor and read the user manual on the other

Previously, I worked with both the desktop computer and notebook running, but this isn't as efficient. I still needed to use a keyboard and mouse for each computer. Now, I can do it all from my desktop keyboard and mouse. Since I am using my desktop keyboard, I flatten my notebook and lean it against the bookcase as if it were a flat panel.

The first test came for me when I needed to do screen snapshots. I wondered how SnagIt would work across monitors. On my notebook, I had the web application I'm documenting. On my desktop, I had the online help file I'm writing. I wanted to grab a screen snap from the notebook and pull it into the help file on the desktop. The extended window configuration worked like a charm. I did run into an issue when recording an AVI file. Once I finished recording, I could not get my mouse over to the second monitor. I haven't fully researched this problem, but it may be a CODEC issue and not MaxiVista.

Perhaps, the biggest surprise in all this was the installation. Sometimes I get it in my head that since more computers are involved, the installation has to be twice as hard or long. I was pleasantly surprised as the software installation for MaxiVista was a snap since my desktop and notebook computer connected using my Linksys router.

The installation package contains only 4 files. Two of these files were the executable for the primary and secondary machine. The other two files consisted of a video tutorial link and a readme file which advises you close any video related programs that run in the background. If you have a firewall, you will have to allow program access.

I found the program performed well with speed and screen clarity. There are some trade offs, but I didn't make any as the default arrangement worked. Some user may want to change the screen resolution of the second monitor if they think response time is an issue. This may be more of an issue for gamers. The changes are easily accomplished by right-clicking the icon on the task bar and going to the configuration menu.

The program also allows you to remotely control the other computer. I found this handy as I prefer to FTP files from my notebook and not the desktop. When I was ready, I switched to Remote Control Mode and could use my desktop keyboard and mouse on the notebook. I don't need to tell you I'm more efficient using the bigger keyboard and dedicated mouse.

I will admit it takes a little bit to get used to dual monitors because of some of the window and pop up behavior. As example, I expected that when I clicked to open an email in Microsoft Outlook, it would appear on the same monitor. After a short time, you're used to it and know where the item will appear.

The company offers a free 14 day trial of the program. If you're like me, you won't need the full 14 days to realize this program can enhance your productivity. You'll want to add this program to your portfolio.

URL: www.maxivista.com
• Version Reviewed: MaxiVista 2.0.19
• Cost: $29.95 - $49.95 depending on version
• Demo: Free - works for 14 days

System Requirements:(2) Windows machines.
• Primary PC needs Windows 2000 or Windows XP.
• Secondary PC needs Windows 98/ME/2000/XP.
• Each PC needs its own monitor, VGA card, 5mb of free space and a network connection

Additional Resources

• Microsoft Research: Two Screens Are Better Than One
• NY Times: Meet the Life Hackers