Are you tired of dealing with a blank external monitor every time you close your laptop? Do you wish there was a way to keep your external display on, even when your laptop is shut? You’re not alone. Many laptop users face this issue, and it can be frustrating, especially if you’re in the middle of an important project or task. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this issue and provide you with step-by-step solutions to keep your external monitor on when your laptop is closed.
Understanding the Problem: Why Does My External Monitor Turn Off When I Close My Laptop?
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why this issue occurs in the first place. The main reason is that most laptops are designed to turn off the external display when the lid is closed. This is a default setting that helps conserve battery life and prevent overheating. However, this setting can be a hindrance when you need to use your external monitor with your laptop closed.
Laptop Settings: The Culprit Behind the External Monitor Shutdown
The primary culprit behind the external monitor shutdown is the laptop’s power settings. Most laptops have a setting that allows you to choose what happens when you close the lid. The options usually include:
- Do nothing
- Sleep
- Hibernate
- Shut down
By default, most laptops are set to sleep or hibernate when the lid is closed. This causes the external monitor to turn off, as the laptop is no longer sending a signal to the display.
Solutions to Keep Your External Monitor On When Laptop Is Closed
Now that we understand the problem, let’s explore the solutions. Here are a few methods to keep your external monitor on when your laptop is closed:
Method 1: Change Your Laptop’s Power Settings
The first method is to change your laptop’s power settings. You can do this by following these steps:
- Go to your laptop’s Control Panel (Windows) or System Preferences (Mac)
- Click on Power Options (Windows) or Energy Saver (Mac)
- Click on the “Choose what to do when I close the lid” option
- Select “Do nothing” or “Stay awake” from the drop-down menu
By selecting “Do nothing” or “Stay awake,” you’re telling your laptop to remain active even when the lid is closed. This should keep your external monitor on.
Method 2: Use the Windows Mobility Center (Windows Only)
If you’re using a Windows laptop, you can use the Windows Mobility Center to keep your external monitor on. Here’s how:
- Press the Windows key + X to open the Windows Mobility Center
- Click on the “Display” option
- Select the “External display” option
- Check the box that says “Keep the external display on when the lid is closed”
This method is specific to Windows laptops and allows you to keep your external monitor on even when the lid is closed.
Method 3: Use a Third-Party Software (Windows and Mac)
If the above methods don’t work, you can try using a third-party software to keep your external monitor on. There are several software options available, including:
- DisplayFusion (Windows)
- Synergy (Windows and Mac)
- Input Director (Windows)
These software options allow you to customize your display settings and keep your external monitor on even when your laptop is closed.
Method 4: Use a Hardware Solution (Windows and Mac)
If you’re not comfortable using software solutions, you can try using a hardware solution. One option is to use a USB docking station that supports external display output. These docking stations can keep your external monitor on even when your laptop is closed.
Another option is to use a hardware switch that allows you to toggle the external display on and off. These switches can be installed on your laptop and allow you to control the external display output.
Additional Tips and Tricks
In addition to the above methods, here are a few additional tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Make sure your external monitor is set to the correct input source. If your monitor is set to the wrong input source, it may not turn on even if your laptop is set to keep the external display on.
- Use a high-quality external monitor cable to ensure a stable connection between your laptop and external monitor.
- If you’re using a USB docking station, make sure it’s compatible with your laptop and external monitor.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
If you’re experiencing issues with keeping your external monitor on, here are a few common issues and troubleshooting tips:
- If your external monitor is not turning on, check that it’s set to the correct input source and that the cable is securely connected.
- If your laptop is not recognizing your external monitor, try restarting your laptop and external monitor.
- If you’re using a third-party software, try updating the software to the latest version.
Conclusion
Keeping your external monitor on when your laptop is closed can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. By understanding the problem and using one of the methods outlined above, you can keep your external monitor on and stay productive. Whether you’re a gamer, graphic designer, or simply someone who needs to use multiple displays, these solutions can help you achieve your goals. So, go ahead and give them a try – your external monitor (and your productivity) will thank you.
| Method | Operating System | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Change Power Settings | Windows and Mac | Change your laptop’s power settings to keep the external monitor on when the lid is closed. |
| Windows Mobility Center | Windows | Use the Windows Mobility Center to keep the external monitor on when the lid is closed. |
| Third-Party Software | Windows and Mac | Use third-party software to customize your display settings and keep the external monitor on. |
| Hardware Solution | Windows and Mac | Use a hardware solution, such as a USB docking station or hardware switch, to keep the external monitor on. |
By following these methods and tips, you can keep your external monitor on and stay productive, even when your laptop is closed.
What is the purpose of keeping my laptop closed while using an external monitor?
Keeping your laptop closed while using an external monitor is a convenient way to save space and reduce clutter on your desk. This setup is ideal for those who prefer a larger screen or want to use their laptop as a desktop replacement. By closing your laptop, you can also reduce the noise and heat generated by the laptop’s internal fans.
When your laptop is closed, it can also help to prolong its lifespan by reducing wear and tear on the keyboard and touchpad. Additionally, closing your laptop can help to conserve battery life, as the laptop’s internal display is turned off, reducing power consumption. Overall, keeping your laptop closed while using an external monitor is a practical and efficient way to work or use your laptop.
How do I enable closed display mode on my laptop?
Enabling closed display mode on your laptop is a relatively straightforward process. The steps may vary depending on your laptop model and operating system, but generally, you can do this by going to your laptop’s display settings. On Windows laptops, you can press the Windows key + P to open the Projector window, and then select the “Second screen only” option. On Mac laptops, you can go to System Preferences > Displays > Arrangement, and then select the “Use as Separate Display” option.
Once you’ve enabled closed display mode, you can close your laptop lid, and your external monitor will continue to display your desktop. You may need to adjust your display settings to optimize the resolution and layout for your external monitor. It’s also a good idea to ensure that your laptop is set to stay awake when the lid is closed, so you can continue working without interruptions.
What are the benefits of using closed display mode?
Using closed display mode offers several benefits, including increased productivity and a more comfortable working experience. With a larger external monitor, you can have multiple windows and applications open at the same time, making it easier to multitask and manage your workload. Closed display mode also allows you to use your laptop as a desktop replacement, providing a more ergonomic and comfortable working setup.
Another benefit of closed display mode is that it can help to reduce eye strain and improve your overall viewing experience. External monitors often have better display quality and higher resolutions than laptop screens, providing a sharper and more vibrant image. Additionally, closed display mode can help to reduce distractions, as you can focus on your external monitor without the temptation to check your laptop screen.
Can I use closed display mode with multiple external monitors?
Yes, you can use closed display mode with multiple external monitors. In fact, many laptops support multiple display outputs, allowing you to connect two or more external monitors to your laptop. To use closed display mode with multiple external monitors, you’ll need to ensure that your laptop supports multiple display outputs and that you have the necessary cables and adapters.
Once you’ve connected your external monitors, you can enable closed display mode and adjust your display settings to optimize the layout and resolution for each monitor. Using multiple external monitors with closed display mode can provide an even more immersive and productive working experience, allowing you to have multiple applications and windows open across multiple screens.
Will closed display mode affect my laptop’s performance?
Closed display mode should not significantly affect your laptop’s performance. In fact, using an external monitor can actually help to improve your laptop’s performance, as it can reduce the load on the laptop’s internal display. However, the performance impact of closed display mode will depend on your laptop’s specifications and the demands of your workload.
If you’re using resource-intensive applications or running multiple programs at the same time, you may notice a slight decrease in performance. However, this is unlikely to be noticeable, and closed display mode should not significantly impact your laptop’s overall performance. It’s also worth noting that some laptops may have specific settings or modes that can help to optimize performance when using an external monitor.
Can I use closed display mode with a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 monitor?
Yes, you can use closed display mode with a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 monitor. In fact, many modern laptops and monitors support USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, which can provide faster data transfer speeds and higher display resolutions. To use closed display mode with a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 monitor, you’ll need to ensure that your laptop and monitor both support these connectivity standards.
Once you’ve connected your USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 monitor, you can enable closed display mode and adjust your display settings to optimize the resolution and layout for your external monitor. Using a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 monitor with closed display mode can provide a fast and seamless working experience, with high-quality display and fast data transfer speeds.
Are there any potential drawbacks to using closed display mode?
While closed display mode offers several benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the main drawbacks is that you may need to adjust your laptop’s settings to ensure that it stays awake when the lid is closed. If your laptop is set to sleep or hibernate when the lid is closed, you may experience interruptions or delays when using closed display mode.
Another potential drawback is that closed display mode may not be suitable for all types of work or applications. For example, if you need to use your laptop’s keyboard or touchpad, you may find it inconvenient to have the laptop closed. Additionally, closed display mode may not be ideal for presentations or meetings, where you may need to show your laptop screen to others.