How to Use a VGA Video Splitter

A VGA video splitter is designed to broadcast video signals coming from one VGA source (CPU) to multiple remote monitors. These monitors can be located up to 500 feet or so depending on the cable provided by the manufacturer and the design of the VGA video splitter itself. To use the device, here are some common steps to follow.

Step 1 – Choosing a Video Splitter

Before deciding to purchase the device, determine how many monitors need to be connected to it. Video splitters can have 2, 4, 8, 16, or more output ports. Second, determine the distance of the splitter from the monitors. Some splitters provide good quality video signals to monitors as far as 1000 feet away. If the monitors are only a short distance away, a less powerful splitter that provides quality signals up to 200 feet can suffice.

Step 2 – Setting up the Splitter

Unpack the device and check if all parts are present. It should have remote units plus connecting cables equal to the number of output ports provided in the central unit of the splitter. It should also have a screen cable that allows it to connect to the CPU or the source of the VGA video signals.  

Turn off the computer first. At the back of the computer CPU or the side of a laptop, locate the video-out slot. Connect one end of the screen cable to this slot. Now locate the video-in slot on the splitter and connect the other end of the screen cable to this slot.

Step 3 – Setting up the Monitors

If the monitors have not been set up yet, make sure to do so in their respective locations. Take a CAT5 cable or any connecting cable provided in the video splitter package and connect it to one of the video-out slots on the splitter. Connect the other end of the connecting cable to the designated video-in slot in the remote unit device near the monitor. Connect the monitor to the remote unit using a standard monitor cable. Do this to all other monitors.

There may also be an optional connection slot for the local monitor on the video splitter. Connect the local monitor to this slot using a standard monitor cable.

Step 4 – Testing the Connections

Connect the power adapter to the splitter and connect the power plug to a working power outlet. Turn on the CPU, the splitter and the local monitor first. After booting the computer, check if it sends display signals to the local monitor. If the monitor displays the correct images, proceed with the remote monitors.

Turn on the remote units and the remote monitors. If the monitors display the same images and image quality as that of the local monitor, the set-up is successful. To adjust video qualities, locate the controls on the remote units and make preferred adjustments. Read the manual for any reference to using additional VGA video splitter features.