Within windows, you can use a feature that is pretty powerful to increase your productivity. This is the windows multiple monitor feature. Imagine having a document on your computer that you need to see while you type another document. This is what the double monitor feature allows you to do.
This feature is supported nicely in Windows XP. You can have a smaller monitor off to the right while you type your document on your main monitor.
To use this feature, you will need to buy a video card that supports multiple monitors. ATI manufactures a great video card called the VGA All In Wonder. You can pick this card up at your local computer super store for around $100.00.
If all you want to do is use the two monitor feature and are not big into games or multi tasking many programs at once, then this is all you will need. However, if you like to play high graphic games, then you will want to get a video card with a good amount of memory. Just ask the sales person at the store to help you. Make sure they understand what it is exactly, you are trying to do.
Once you purchase the video card, if you can install it yourself then great. If not, then see if the store can do it for you or find a knowledgeable friend to help you out. Just having a friend install the card, can save you anywhere from $50.00 to $100.00.
After the video card is installed, it