Force Dual-Monitor Always

[Guest]

I have a (very new and shiny) PC with a very (also new and shiny) high-end
video card (nVidia, dual DVI-out). I have one plug going to a 43'' plasma TV
that is basically a digital billboard in a hallway for an organization.

The other DVI-out on the video card was plugged into a really crappy 13''
monitor (set as the primary display).

When we were done getting it all set, I stuck the computer under a desk and
decided I could just use VNC or something if I needed to interact with it's
desktop.

But when I unplug the 13'' POS monitor, after the next reboot it is disabled
as a monitor, it's re-adjusted the TV as the primary and only monitor, and my
taskbar/desktop/etc are showing around the digital signage that I want it to
show.

I can adjust the resolution to make it look just fine in single monitor
mode, but then everyone looking at the sign sees my desktop as I'm making
changes to it or controlling it via VNC remote desktop link. And that's no
bueno.

Can I force Windows (my video card?) to maintain the settings I choose and
not try to auto-detect what's plugged in and where? Where's the "don't screw
with my settings" registry key?

- skeene

 

[Bob I]

The concept of dual monitor implies there are 2 monitors attached, and
for there to be a secondary monitor, you MUST have a primary monitor.