How to Use Your Android Tablet as a Second Monitor

Introduction

In today's digital age, having multiple screens can be a game-changer for anyone who works with computers. Whether you're a developer, designer, or simply someone who likes to keep multiple applications open at the same time, using an Android tablet as a second monitor can be incredibly useful. This article will explore the different ways you can turn your Android tablet into a secondary display for your computer.

Method 1: Using VNC

One of the most straightforward methods to use an Android tablet as a second monitor is by setting up a VNC (Virtual Network Computing) server on your computer and a VNC viewer on your tablet. Here’s how you can do it:

Set Up the VNC Server

• On your computer, install and configure a VNC server. For Linux, x11vnc is a popular and easy-to-use option that allows sharing your X11 desktop over the network.

• Start the VNC server using the following command in your terminal:
  bash
  x11vnc -display :0 -auth /home/username/.Xauthority -forever -noxdamage -shared

• This command starts the VNC server on display :0 and shares it over the network.

Install a VNC Viewer on Your Tablet

• On your Android tablet, install a VNC viewer app. Options include TightVNC, VNC Viewer, and others.
• Open the app and connect to your VNC server using its IP address or hostname.

Configure the Display

• After connecting, configure the display settings on your tablet to match the resolution and orientation of your computer's display.
• Some VNC viewers allow setting up multiple monitors and adjusting settings like resolution and refresh rate.

Using Barrier for Seamless Integration

• VNC has limitations, such as not easily dragging windows from one monitor to another without specifying the target display beforehand.
• Overcome this by using Barrier, a free and open-source software that allows seamless use of multiple monitors. It integrates well with VNC and provides a more intuitive way of managing multiple displays.
• Barrier works by creating a virtual X11 display that combines multiple physical displays into one logical screen, allowing smooth window movement between monitors without configuration issues.

Method 2: Using XDMX

Another method to use an Android tablet as a second monitor involves using XDMX (X Display Manager Extension). This method is more complex but provides a more seamless experience.

Set Up the XDMX Server

• To set up an XDMX server, have a running X11 session on your computer.

• Use the xdmx command to create a virtual display that combines multiple physical displays into one logical screen.

• For example, if you have two physical displays connected to your computer, create a virtual display using the following command:
  bash
  xdmdisplays -screen 0 -screen 1

• This command creates a virtual display that combines displays 0 and 1.

Install an XDMX Client on Your Tablet

• On your Android tablet, install an XDMX client app. Few apps are available specifically for this purpose, so you might need to use a VNC client with XDMX support.
• Once installed, connect to the XDMX server using its IP address or hostname.

Configure the Display

• After connecting, configure the display settings on your tablet to match the resolution and orientation of your computer's virtual display.
• Some XDMX clients allow setting up multiple monitors and adjusting settings like resolution and refresh rate.

Method 3: Using xrandr

Another method involves using xrandr to activate an inactive display and then setting up a VNC server for that virtual display.

Activate an Inactive Display

• Use xrandr to list all available displays and identify any inactive ones.

• Activate the desired display using the following command:
  bash
  xrandr –output HDMI-1 –on

• Replace HDMI-1 with the name of your inactive display.

Set Up a VNC Server

• Start a VNC server specifically for this virtual display. For example, use x11vnc with the following command:
  bash
  x11vnc -display :1 -auth /home/username/.Xauthority -forever -noxdamage -shared

• This command starts the VNC server on display :1, corresponding to your newly activated virtual display.

Install a VNC Viewer on Your Tablet

• On your Android tablet, install a VNC viewer app and connect to the VNC server using its IP address or hostname.

Configure the Display

• After connecting, configure the display settings on your tablet to match the resolution and orientation of your computer's virtual display.

Method 4: Using Spacedesk

Spacedesk is another tool that allows you to use your Android tablet as a second monitor for your Windows PC. Here’s how you can use it:

Install Spacedesk on Your Tablet

• Download and install the Spacedesk app on your Android tablet from the Google Play Store.

Install Spacedesk on Your PC

• Download and install the Spacedesk server software on your Windows PC from the official website.

Connect Your Tablet to Your PC

• Open the Spacedesk app on your tablet and connect to your PC using its IP address or hostname.

Configure the Display

• After connecting, configure the display settings on your tablet to match the resolution and orientation of your computer's display.
• Adjust settings like portrait/landscape mode and text scaling within the Windows settings.

Challenges and Limitations

While using an Android tablet as a second monitor can be incredibly useful, there are some challenges and limitations to consider:

Performance Issues

• Running multiple displays can sometimes lead to performance issues, especially if you're using older hardware or low-end devices.
• This is particularly noticeable when running resource-intensive applications like video editing software.

Resolution and Orientation

• Ensuring that the resolution and orientation of your tablet match those of your computer's display can sometimes be tricky.
• Some tools may not support all resolutions or orientations, which can limit their usability.

Window Management

• One of the biggest challenges is managing windows between multiple displays seamlessly.
• Some tools like Barrier and Spacedesk handle this better than others, but it still requires some configuration and adjustment.

Stability Issues

• There have been reports of stability issues with some tools, especially when using them over long periods or with complex workflows.
• This can be frustrating, especially if you're relying on your second monitor for critical tasks.

Additional Tools and Resources

For those interested in exploring more tools and resources, here are a few additional options:

Deskreen

• Deskreen is another tool that allows you to use your Android tablet as a second monitor for your Linux machine. It's simple to set up and works well, especially for those who prefer a more straightforward approach.

Weylus

• Weylus is a tool that allows you to use your Android tablet as a drawing tablet for your desktop. It also supports multi-touch and pen pressure forwarding, making it useful for creative tasks.

Screen Stream over HTTP

• Screen Stream over HTTP is an app that allows you to stream your screen from your Android device to a computer over HTTP. This can be useful for presentations or demonstrations.

By leveraging these tools and methods, you can turn your Android tablet into a powerful second monitor that enhances your workflow and productivity. Whether you're working on a project, studying, or simply multitasking, having multiple screens at your disposal can make a significant difference in how efficiently you work.