computer logistics question

[Flasch186]

Say I want to only have the case of my desktop computer setup with no monitor and then only use it "on demand". Could I plug it into my laptop and have my laptop serve as it's monitor? What cable is used? what command shows it and not the laptop's "work"?

[RomaGoth]

I am not sure if it is possible, I have very little experience with laptops (even though I own one). If it is possible however, I would guess that you have to disable the video on your laptop and use a standard monitor cable for the monitor/laptop connection. You may have to go into your BIOS/startup menu as well. The name of the cable escapes me at the moment, I guess that network administration schooling is not working out for me after all.

In any case, try that; and I am sure someone else here can offer some insight as well.

[Castlerock]

What OS is it running? You could use Remote Desktop but I don't think it is part of the "home" versions of XP or Vista. http://www.microsoft.com/windowsXp/using/mobility/getstarted/Remoteintro.mspx

VNC is an alternative to Remote Desktop. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_Network_Computing

[Flasch186]

XP on both.

Im beginning to gather that just using the laptop's monitor as a dummy monitor in these cases isn't possible?

[BrianD]

XP on both.

Im beginning to gather that just using the laptop's monitor as a dummy monitor in these cases isn't possible?

I have never seen a laptop that could take a video input from an external source. You can output the laptop's video to another monitor or a TV, but they aren't made to go the other way around. Your only option would be to network the PC and the laptop and use a remote control program like VNC.

[flere-imsaho]

Im beginning to gather that just using the laptop's monitor as a dummy monitor in these cases isn't possible?

You'd need some sort of video input jack on the laptop. I've never seen a laptop with one of these.

So, as noted, your best/only bet is to come in over the network to your "headless" PC, via either VNC or Remote Desktop.

[Flasch186]

is there a free VNC and does it work "fully" just slower?

[wade moore]

I thought Remote Desktop was a part of Home?

If so - it's built into XP. Try start->Programs->Accessories->Remote Desktop

If you have it in your start menu, just use that.

[Dr. Sak]

Remote Desktop is only a part of XP Pro if I recall correctly.

[Flasch186]

on my laptop there is a selection for remote desktop connection! thanks Wade! Ill just need to check if the other computer has it too.

[lordscarlet]

Programs->Accessories->Communication :)

[Castlerock]

You can make a remote connection TO another computer with the home version of XP but I don't think you can accept a remote connection FROM another computer.