One of the fun things about being a trader is being able to have multiple monitors.
At some point it becomes ridiculous, but in my opinion, a minimum of 2 or 3 monitors can really boost your productivity.
Longer term traders may not need it, but it is very helpful for shorter term traders because they can watch multiple markets at the same time or work on a spreadsheet while having their trading platform open.
If you don’t want to open your computer to add another video card, I understand. We are traders, not IT technicians. In addition, if you have a small computer (like me), laptop (and want a third monitor) or a computer that is out of expansion slots, this may be your best solution.
Here is what I have been using. I’m not exactly sure how long I have had it, but it has been at least a year. I think it is a great product and allows you to add more monitors very easily.
It is just a little box that sits on top of your computer or desk. All you have to do is plug in the USB cable, plug in the monitor cable (VGA or DVI), download the software drivers (or use the CD), and change your monitor setup. I have two of them running off my desktop computer at home.
The only issue that I have had is that sometimes I have to unplug it and plug it back in when I first start my computer because it doesn’t start up. It doesn’t happen often, but otherwise it works great! They do run a little hot, because of all the processing that goes on in there, but not enough to be dangerous.
A couple of the reviews say that it doesn’t work too well with movies, but I have never had a problem watching movies with it. More importantly, it works well with my charts. It may not work as well if you do hardcore 3D graphics or play graphics intensive online games but I think it is perfect for traders.
I think there is a limit to how many extra monitors you can have with this device, I think it is 4. If you don’t have enough USB slots, consider an external USB hub
to get more slots.
Be sure that your computer is compatible with this product. If it isn’t, there are several different brands out there and one of them may work for you.
To learn how to choose the best computer for Forex trading, read this guide.
Have fun!
