Using Multiple Displays with MacOS Computers

Introduction

MacBook laptop and iMac desktop computers can be used with multiple connected displays. This guide will cover how to use and arrange multiple monitors on Mac computers, and cover common issues that may occur.

Details

Arranging Multiple DisplaysScreenshot of MacOS Display Settings

  1. Open the System Settings menu (select the Apple logo and then choose "System Settings" from the dropdown menu)
  2. Navigate to the "Displays" menu in the sidebar
  3. This shows you a list of all displays connected to the computer, including the built-in display. You can adjust several settings here:
    1. Use As: This will let you set whether the selected monitor is a "mirror" (showing the same thing as another monitor) or "extended" (additional screen space)
    2. Text Size: Set the scale of the text on the selected monitor.
    3. Brightness: Adjust the brightness of the selected monitor.
    4. Resolutions: Change the screen resolution if the ratio or scale of the screen seems off.
      • You may need to open "advanced" at the bottom of the Display settings menu and enable "show resolutions as a list" before the resolutions will be visible.
  4. Click "arrange" to open the monitor arrangement menu. This will show you another image of all the monitors connected to the computer. When you select one, the corresponding monitor will be highlighted in red. You can then drag the monitors to change their positioning. 

DisplayLink Manager

If you are using a MacBook laptop with multiple additional monitors, you will likely need a DisplayLink compatible docking station. The DisplayLink software allows multiple monitors to be used as "extended" screens from the MacBook.

To request a DisplayLink compatible docking station, submit an Employee Equipment Request.

  • Once Screenshot of the DisplayLink Manager software menuthe DisplayLink software is installed on the computer, it will appear in the top menu bar as an icon of two overlapping rectangles.
  • If the software is not running, you can search for "DisplayLink" in Finder to run the software.
  • To ensure the software launches whenever you start the computer, check the "Launch automatically after login" option in the DisplayLink menu.
  • Opening the menu in the top bar shows all your connected monitors and lets you change resolution and other video settings.

Common Issues and Solutions

Monitors are connected, but not displaying anything

  1. Ensure all cables are securely connected.
  2. Disconnect and reconnect the cable to the monitor.
  3. Verify the monitor is plugged in and receiving power.
  4. If you are using a DisplayLink docking station, make sure the DisplayLink software is currently running.
  5. Restart the computer.
  6. If you are still unable to see an image on the monitors, submit an IT Ticket for assistance.

Monitors are connected, but only displaying a blank background image

  1. If only one screen shows a desktop background image, the monitor is set to "extend."
  2. Open the Displays settings menu, select the appropriate monitor, and set "use as..." to "mirror."

No image on a classroom or conference room AV system

  1. If you are connected to an AV system in a classroom or conference room and it is not responding to the Mac computer, it may not be enabled for HDCP (High-Bandwidth Digital Copy Protection)
  2. Submit a Classroom Technology Support ticket for assistance.
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