External displays

External displays are peripheral output devices that connect to a primary computing device to provide additional or primary visual output. They extend a computer's desktop, offer larger viewing areas, or enable multi-user experiences, enhancing productivity, immersion, and collaboration.

Key facts

First appeared
1964
Category
technology
Problem solved
The fundamental problem solved by external displays is the limitation of screen real estate and the fixed nature of integrated displays in early computing devices. They allowed users to expand their visual workspace, display multiple applications simultaneously, share content with others easily, and upgrade their display independent of their core computing hardware.
Platforms
Android, macOS, Linux, iOS, ChromeOS, Game Console OS (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox), Windows

Related technologies

Notable users

  • Gamers (high-performance setups)
  • Individuals (for home and office use)
  • Businesses (corporate workstations, conference rooms)
  • Creative Professionals (graphic designers, video editors)
  • Healthcare (medical imaging)
  • Educational Institutions