How to Set Up Multi-Monitor Workstations

The purpose of this article is to detail the process for setting up multi-monitor workstations using the Dell WD19 dock on both Windows and Mac operating systems.

• General Public

• Vanderbilt University Community

  • Faculty and Staff

  • Undergraduate Students

  • Graduate and Professional Students

• VUIT Internal Knowledge 

• Ensure that your computer meets the minimum requirements for multi-monitor support

• Dell WD19 dock

• For Mac laptops, an additional HDMI cable or Lightning to HDMI adapter will be needed for adding more than one monitor

• One or more external monitors

• Updated graphics drivers

Setting up a multi-monitor workstation can enhance productivity by providing additional screen real estate for multitasking. The most common dock in use at Vanderbilt in Hotelling and shared spaces is the Dell WD19, but similar steps will apply to other dock makes and models. This article outlines the steps to connect multiple monitors using the Dell WD19 dock on both Windows and Mac platforms, ensuring a seamless transition between displays.

Windows

• Connect the Dock:

  • Plug the Dell WD19 dock into a power source and connect it to your Windows laptop or desktop using the provided cable.

• Connect the Monitors:

  • Connect your primary monitor to the dock using an HDMI or DisplayPort cable.

  • If using a secondary monitor, connect it to the dock using another HDMI or DisplayPort cable.

• Configure Display Settings:

  • Right-click on the desktop and select Display Settings.

  • Scroll down to the Multiple displays section.

  • Choose how you want to use the displays (e.g., extend or duplicate) from the dropdown menu.

  • Click Apply to save your changes.

• Adjust Display Order:

  • Drag and arrange the monitor icons to match the physical layout of your monitors.

  • Click Apply to finalize the arrangement.

• Resetting the Dock (if issues occur):

  • Unplug the power cable from the dock.

  • Press and hold the power button on the dock for 30 seconds.

  • Reconnect the power cable to reset the dock.

Mac 

• Connect the Dock:

  • Plug the Dell WD19 dock into a power source and connect it to your Mac using the USB-C or Thunderbolt cable.

• Connect the Primary Monitor:

  • Connect your primary monitor to the dock using an HDMI cable.

• Connect the Secondary Monitor:

  • For a secondary display, use an additional HDMI cable or a Lightning to HDMI adapter.

  • Connect the second monitor directly to the Mac or through the dock if additional ports are available.

• Configure Display Settings:

  • Go to System Settings and select Displays.

  • Click on the Arrange button.

  • Drag and arrange the display icons to match the physical layout of your monitors.

  • Ensure the Mirror Displays checkbox is unchecked to extend your desktop.

• Adjust Display Resolution:

  • Select each monitor and choose the desired resolution from the Display tab.

We can help if there are issues. To get assistance, please place a Desktop Support Service Request.

• No Signal on Monitor:

  • Ensure all cables are securely connected.

  • Check that the monitor is powered on and set to the correct input source.

• Monitors Not Detected:

  • Restart your computer and check the connection.

  • Update graphics drivers if monitors are still not recognized.

• Resolution Issues:

  • Verify the resolution settings in the display configuration menu.

• For optimal performance, use high-quality cables that support the required resolution and refresh rate.

• Ensure your graphics card can support multiple monitors if you plan to use more than two displays.

• Dell Support: WD19 Docking Station

• Apple Support: Using Multiple Displays with Mac