[Fourlanders] Second display capability for Dell contest computers

[Bob Lear]

We were lamenting the lack of second video output/option on the Dell 
contest computers during the recent contest.  I have identified a 
solution for us.

I have a SIIG USB 2.0 to VGA dongle that I tested on the 6m Dell 
Optiplex computer.  Seems to work just fine.  You can set the second 
monitor L, R, above, etc.  Drag an app up to it.  Should be excellent 
for our purposes.

I also have purchased and tested a j5create USB 2.0 to VGA dongle that I 
picked up on sale at Microcenter on Saturday.  It works just the same.  
(I think they even had the same driver software).

Anyway, this should be a simple and not too expensive solution to let us 
run two monitors on the contest computers that can't install a second 
video card.  These dongles may not be fast enough for gaming, but I 
think they will be just fine for our use.

Microcenter has both of them and in stock.  The SIIG (635623) is $50 and 
the j5 (319061) is on sale right now for $30, marked down from $38.

I haven't searched the 'net for better deals.  I picked my SIIG up at a 
hamfest several years ago, NIB, and I'm sure it was much cheaper.    I 
have used it here in the shack and once to do a presentation to drive a 
video presentation projector.

They also have USB 3.0 to VGA adapters that are more expensive and 
probably faster.  I think the Dell's are only 2.0 and will be fine for 
our uses.

Bob