Journal: News & Comment

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Three? What is wrong with you?

I have three screens connected to my Power Mac: a 17" monitor in the middle and two smaller ones on either side. Why?

Two days ago I was writing an article. On my main screen I had -- surprise -- the article, which I was composing in a text editor. On the smallest screen, to my right, I had a few stacked windows containing various e-mails and other documents I'd accumulated while doing research. On the left, I had a Web browser. I was able to read my research notes, surf for background material, and write, all without moving windows around or bringing different programs in front of others.

Even when I'm not working, I use the same strategy. E-mail in the middle, browser on the left, instant messaging and MP3 program on the right. It's addictive.

If you use one monitor and find it feels too small with today's newer software, try getting yourself a new screen (maybe an LCD flat panel these days), then pick up a cheap video card and use it to run your old monitor as a second display. You'll like the big fat expanse of your new desktop.

Or you could just get one of these instead.

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