My T200HD Can't Connect to My Laptop

The Samsung T200HD LCD monitor is designed for use with modern computers. According to Samsung, it utilizes a DVI connection, boasts a 20,000:1 contrast ratio, and displays in high definition widescreen. However, if you're using a laptop computer with an older VGA connection or outdated display drivers, it can be difficult to connect this monitor to your laptop. With the right troubleshooting techniques, you can fix these errors and plug the Samsung T200HD monitor into any laptop with multi-monitor support.

• 1

  Check for a video input on your laptop. If you don't notice a VGA, S-Video or DVI connection port, then your laptop's graphics card does not support external, multi-monitor display. To use the Samsung T200HD monitor, you must take your laptop to a computer retailer for a graphics card upgrade.

• 2

  Insert the Samsung T200HD's DVI cable into a VGA or S-Video adapter. If your laptop does not have a DVI port, an adapter will let you convert the connection for use with a different type of video port.

• 3

  Plug the other end of your VGA or S-Video adapter into your laptop.

• 4

  Inspect your DVI, VGA or S-Video cables for damage. If your cables are all hooked up correctly, but your T200HD LCD screen still won't display, this could be from cable damage. A bent connector pin or slit in the cable's plastic casing interferes with connection. Replace any cables if necessary.

• 5

  Turn on your computer.

• 6

  Click the "Start Menu."

• 7

  Click the "Control Panel."

• 8

  Click "System and Security."

• 9

  Click "Device Manager."

• 10

  Click to expand the "Monitors" heading. You should see your Samsung monitor listed alongside your built-in laptop monitor.

• 11

  Double-click on the Samsung T200HD listing. This will open a window displaying the T200HD device properties.

• 12

  Click on the "Driver" tab at the top of the window.

• 13

  Click "Update Driver." If your cables are all hooked up properly, any lingering connection issues are likely due to outdated drivers. According to Microsoft, most users with hardware issues need new drivers. Windows will automatically search for new driver software, installing updates as needed.