Every year, we witness the release of new and improved Android tablets. Unfortunately, this means that older devices become sluggish and struggle to handle modern applications. It’s often disheartening to think about disposing of these outdated gadgets, especially when there are very few interested buyers.

How to turn a tablet into a monitor

Every year, new Android tablets hit the market, offering innovative features and updated technology. Unfortunately, older devices often face performance issues and struggle to keep up with the demands of modern applications. As a result, these devices become obsolete and unwanted, with very limited potential buyers. However, there are alternative and unconventional ways to repurpose these tablets in various scenarios.

How you can use the tablet as a monitor

There are multiple ways to utilize the tablet as a monitor:

1. The tablet can act as an "extension" of the primary screen. For instance, you can watch a movie on the main monitor while reading emails, controlling mouse and keyboard applications, and performing any other tasks typically done on the computer screen using the tablet.
2. You can utilize the tablet as a secondary display. It will replicate all the activities happening on the main monitor.
3. In instances of emergencies, such as a malfunctioning monitor, the tablet can serve as a complete replacement for the screen.

What is required for this

An exclusive app is necessary for this purpose. The app is installed on all the devices that need to be connected.

It should be noted that working with a PC using it is quite inconvenient, especially with tables and texts considering the device display size of approximately 10". However, it can be an optimal choice for specific tasks, especially when there is a wireless connection. Additionally, to ensure proper image display, the PC’s monitor resolution should match the device’s resolution.

Please note that there are numerous applications available for making the connection. Nevertheless, regardless of the tablet’s choice and model, the connection process remains the same.

To accomplish this task, you will need to install a client application on your device and a server program on your PC. Next, you will need to specify which screen should serve as the primary display and which one should be the additional screen. All of these steps can be performed in the monitor settings within the Windows operating system.

There are several applications available that allow you to use your device as the main screen. Here are a few options:

1. iDisplay: This is an affordable and accessible app that supports both iOS and Android platforms.
2. Another option is an app that is compatible with any operating system on PCs and tablets.

This software is widely recognized and highly dependable. Although there is a cost associated with the programs, they are well worth the price (around $5). These applications are known for their consistent performance and extensive customization options. While there are other alternatives available, iDisplay is often the preferred choice. If you opt for different programs, the settings can be adjusted in a similar manner.

Monitor from a tablet: step by step

To establish a connection between your computer and the device, you will need to use a USB cable (alternatively, you can use Wi-Fi). Afterward, you will need to download the respective application onto both devices:

1. Download iDisplay onto your PC – the application can be obtained for free from the developer’s website, specifically for your operating system. It is important to restart your computer for the connection to take effect.
2. Subsequently, download the program from Google Play onto your tablet. Please note that the application has a cost associated with it.
3. Launch the program on your PC.
4. Proceed to activate iDisplay on your device. Once done, click on the "plus" symbol to establish a connection with the "server", which in this case is your PC (the Wi-Fi option is used for wireless connection, while the USB option requires connecting the cable to both the PC and the tablet, followed by selecting "Connect via USB").
5. To connect your device, you will need to provide the IP address, connector number, and name. The IP address and connector number can be found in the tray by hovering over iDisplay. All this information can be found on the device itself. You can choose any name you prefer.
6. Once you have entered the necessary information, click on "Add and connect".
7. A "Display authorization" window will then appear on your PC monitor. You can choose to reject the device connection, connect once, or automatically connect every time the device is detected. It is recommended to select the last option.
8. The screen will briefly go black for 2-3 seconds, and then the PC desktop will be visible on the tablet device.

Once the installation is complete, you will need to specify whether the tablet PC will function as an additional monitor, duplicate monitor, or main monitor. This can be done by accessing the monitor settings in the operating system.

Place a check mark next to the option labeled "Multiple screens". If you choose the "Duplicate screens" option, the tablet will replicate all the actions of the PC monitor on its own display. Alternatively, by selecting "Expand monitor", both screens will be able to display different data. Although they are part of the same desktop, they function independently.

Assistance. To make the tablet computer function as the primary screen, you must choose "Show desktop on 2 only" and click "Apply". Next, right-click on the iDisplay shortcut to open the tray, locate "Settings", and mark the checkbox that says "launch at Windows start up".

After the computer restarts and the regular screen is disabled, the application will automatically turn on during system boot. All you have to do is use the device to connect to the application, and the desktop of the operating system will be visible on the tablet PC.

However, there are several drawbacks to using this monitor. Firstly, you need to download the application in advance in order to use the tablet PC monitor as the main screen. This means you will need another working monitor to see what you’re doing if the tablet monitor is not functioning. You will then have to connect to the computer, download and configure the program, and then disconnect and use the tablet PC display instead.

Another disadvantage is that you have to manually activate the connection with the computer on the tablet device when switching it on.

One of the major downsides is the requirement for a high-resolution device with a relatively large screen. A 7-inch budget Chinese device offers little comfort, while a 10-inch gadget is ideal for this purpose.

However, the main benefit is the ability to input information through touch on the device. With this "monitor," you can lounge on the bed or move to another room, as long as you have a Wi-Fi connection, and use the PC in its regular mode.