To keep your Windows laptop on when it’s closed and use an external monitor, follow these steps:
- Access Power Options: On Windows 11, open Control Panel and navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power Options. For Windows 10, right-click the Battery icon in the lower right-hand corner of your desktop and select Power Options.
- Choose Lid Close Behavior: In the Power Options window, click on “Choose what closing the lid does.”
- Adjust Power Settings: Under “When I close the lid,” you’ll see options for both “On battery” and “Plugged in.” Select “Do nothing” from the drop-down menu for one or both of these categories, depending on your preferences.
- Apply Changes: Click “Save changes” to apply the new settings.
By selecting “Do nothing,” your laptop will continue to run even when the lid is closed, allowing you to use an external monitor without interruption. However, be cautious of potential issues such as overheating and battery drain, especially if you’re using the laptop in a confined space like a bag.
Additionally, remember to adjust the power settings back to their default configurations when not using an external monitor or when portability is required to avoid unnecessary battery drain or overheating.
If you’re using a Dell laptop and want to connect it to an external monitor, identify the appropriate ports on your laptop and connect it to the monitor using the correct cable. Then, adjust the video settings in the Windows settings menu.
When cleaning your computer monitor, power down the device first and use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the screen. If needed, you can dampen the cloth with distilled water or a mixture of water and white vinegar for tougher stains.
