How to Use an Old Tablet as an External Monitor: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

In today’s digital age, repurposing old devices not only saves money but also reduces electronic waste. One great way to do this is by turning your old tablet into an external monitor for your computer. Whether you need extra screen space for productivity, a portable secondary display, or simply want to give your tablet a new lease on life, this guide will walk you through the process.

Why Use an Old Tablet as an External Monitor?

Using an old tablet as an external monitor can be beneficial for several reasons:

• Cost-Effective: Instead of investing in a new monitor, you can reuse a device you already own.

• Portability: Tablets are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for mobile work setups.

• Enhanced Productivity: Extra screen space can help you multitask, monitor social media feeds, or display reference materials while working.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

• An Old Tablet: This guide applies to both Android and iOS tablets.

• A Computer: Running Windows, macOS, or even Linux.

• A Stable Internet Connection: For wireless solutions, though wired options are also available.

• Relevant Apps/Software: Depending on your tablet’s operating system and your computer’s OS.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose the Right App

Several apps can help transform your tablet into an external monitor. Some popular options include:

• Duet Display: Compatible with both iOS and Android, Duet Display allows you to connect your tablet to your computer via a USB cable for a reliable connection.

• Splashtop Wired XDisplay: Another robust option that works with both Android and iOS, offering a wired connection for minimal lag.

• iDisplay: Available for both wireless and wired connections; supports multiple operating systems.

Tip: Check the app’s compatibility with your computer’s operating system and your tablet’s OS before downloading.

2. Install the App on Both Devices

• On Your Computer:
  Visit the app’s official website, download the corresponding software for your operating system, and follow the installation instructions.

• On Your Tablet:
  Go to the App Store or Google Play Store, download the mobile version of the app, and install it.

3. Connect Your Tablet to Your Computer

Wired Connection:

• Use a USB cable to connect your tablet to your computer.

• Open the installed app on both devices.

• Follow on-screen instructions to establish a connection. Wired connections generally offer a more stable and lag-free experience.

Wireless Connection:

• Ensure both your tablet and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

• Launch the app on both devices.

• Select your computer from the list of available devices on your tablet app.

• Confirm the connection on your computer if prompted.

4. Configure Your Display Settings

Once connected, you may need to adjust the display settings:

• Resolution and Orientation:
  Most apps allow you to change the resolution and orientation to suit your needs.

• Screen Arrangement:
  On your computer, go to your display settings to arrange the tablet’s screen as an extension of your desktop.

• Touch Input:
  If your tablet supports touch input, enable this feature within the app settings to interact with your computer using the tablet’s touchscreen.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Lag or Connection Issues:
  If you experience lag, try switching to a wired connection or reducing the resolution.

• Display Not Recognized:
  Make sure both devices are on the same network (for wireless) or that the cable is securely connected (for wired).

• App Compatibility:
  Ensure that you’re running the latest version of the app on both devices, and check for any compatibility updates from the app developer.

Conclusion

Repurposing an old tablet as an external monitor is a creative and practical solution that can enhance your productivity without breaking the bank. With the right app and a few simple steps, you can transform your tablet into a reliable second screen, offering flexibility and convenience for your work or leisure activities. Experiment with different settings to tailor the experience to your needs, and enjoy the benefits of a multi-display setup using devices you already have.