Cevaton Dual Screen Add-On Turns Laptops Into Triple Displays
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The Cevaton 15.6 Laptop Triple Screen Extender, with its multiple configurations, is a versatile productivity accessory provided it is compatible with your laptop.This screen extender is a novel idea. Its adjustable metal frame lets you position your laptop between twin screens. The adaptable monitor stand can be contorted into various positions to meet almost any workplace or home office need.The design options provide 11 screen orientations, including stacked, single-screen, and folding modes. Beyond the traditional side-by-side setup, options include landscape and portrait modes. More modes exist depending on whether you need to view one or both added displays in vertical or horizontal orientations.Yet another user scenario lets you mirror an image across two or all three mirrored screens. This trick is handy, as you can display a mirrored image in vertical or horizontal orientation while you work on a third panel to read related text or create content. You no longer need to use two separate computers as a workaround solution.Other configuration modes let you mount the two extended monitors back-to-back to view one screen while others sit across a conference table to share their own view. Arranging the two extender monitors atop the laptop screen gives you a long-form view from top to bottom.The Cevaton 15.6 Laptop Screen Extender offers multiple configurations, including stacked, single-screen, and folding modes for versatile display setups.(Image Credit: Cevaton)All of these combinations have viewing angle schemes based on 90-degree vertical rotation and 235-degree horizontal rotation, a multi-function configuration button, and dual speakers in each monitor. These options surpass traditional dual-monitor setups, which often require multiple video card ports or docking stations.Setup Challenges and Cable CompatibilityMy two workplace desktop computers are tethered to secondary monitors. Once set up, cables remain connected for trouble-free use. Similarly, my cadre of laptops and tablets with much smaller screens are paired with a single portable laptop-sized secondary monitor.An optional power plug and an HDMI cable are all that is required for a speedy grab-and-go connection. For specialized projects, I endure the hassle of attaching two laptop secondary screens via a docking station, as most laptops can only handle a two-screen setup.So, the ability to add matching laptop monitors with connecting cables sans a third-party docking device is an enticing proposition. The setback occurs when the cables Cevaton supplies are unsuitable for every variation of ports built into laptops.Cable Limitations and WorkaroundsThe Cevaton monitors have the same combination of ports: two fully functional USB-C ports and one HDMI port. Depending on the laptop, setting up the connections is not simple plug-and-play.The manufacturer includes two cables, one with a standard HDMI plug (for the laptop connection) and one with a mini-plug (for the extended monitor). A pair of included USB Type-C cables is provided for laptops without HDMI support.Also included is a set of cables with a USB Type-A plug on one end and a fully USB Type-C plug on the other end. This cable and plug combination can solve connection issues, provided the laptop supports fully functional Type-C features. On some of my gear, the device only had one HDMI or other suitable port, leaving nowhere to connect the second Cevaton screen. In oddball cases, the connectors fit, but some glitch in the OS circuitry prevented the video signal from reaching the additional monitors.I found that trial and error often was the only way to resolve a setup issue. Potential snags include matching a Type-C USB to a Display Port (DP) connection or HDMI with a USB-Type B or Type-C port. I even ran into a case where the only USB Type-A port and cable combination did not handle video signals well.Some situations may require more than one type of cable and connector. For instance, a USB-A cable will also be needed to power the screen extender when connecting with HDMI. A separate power plug is not included.Troubleshooting Connection IssuesConnection issues on some laptops resulted from different hardware specs. I have numerous test laptops, ranging in age and hardware specs.Unfortunately, video and audio ports and plugs are not as standardized as USB type A/B/C, which guarantees plug-and-play. On some laptops, I could connect only one monitor.The tiny power button on the monitors doubles as the brightness and contrast adjustment control. It is sensitive to finger movement, which can sometimes cause the brightness control to be too low, making the monitor appear not to be working. The trick is to long press the power button for five seconds to reset the screen brightness.Product FeaturesThe 15.6 portable monitors each weigh 2.1 pounds. The metal frame and rotating arms add several more pounds. The entire setup is easily carried in an included bag.A circular connector attaches to the extender monitors at the end of each supporting arm that slides onto the frame. The foldable metal frame provides 235-degree rotation. The standing frame for the dual monitors opens/closes to accommodate 13 to 17.3 laptops.The monitors deliver 120% sRGB FHD IPS 1080P with an aspect ratio of 16:9 and a screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 Pixels, providing a wider view with more vivid colors and a more comfortable viewing experience.Multi-function keys let you customize settings such as brightness, volume, contrast, and other parameters for each screen according to your preferences.Pricing and Device CompatibilityThe Cevaton 15.6 Laptop Triple Screen Extender was initially listed on Cevatons website for $500 and reduced to $399. It is currently listed on Amazon for $299.These portable monitors are compatible with Windows, Android, and ChromeOS devices, as well as MacBooks with the M1/M2/M3 Pro or Max chips but not with the entry-level M1/M2/M3 chips. They also work with Nintendo Switch, PS4, and Xbox.The Cevaton website provides more detailed laptop listings and can be used to confirm if the product is compatible with your laptop model.Bottom LineCevatons dual monitor extensions are an unusual product that offers more use-case solutions than many people need. The frame and connectors are very sturdy and easy to assemble, disassemble, and carry with your laptop.If you confirm that your computer is compatible before purchasing, you should not have difficulties connecting both monitors.Is there a tech product or application youd like to suggest for review? Something you love or would like to get to know?Email your ideas to me, and Ill consider them for a future column.And use the Reader Comments feature below to provide your input!
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