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Posted 10/19/2008 4:37:01 PM
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Hi,

My experiment needs to either
1. present the exact same experiment on two monitors simultaneously;
or 2. alter the presentation between the two monitors from time to time throughout the experiment.

I understand that this can be achieved by setting up dual monitors in Windows, but my computer has only one DVI and one VGA output. I'm concerned that if the two monitors are connected through different sources (one DVI and one VGA), the image quality may be different. Since the experiment is a perceptual one, image quality needs to be well controlled.

Changing the display card (to one with dual DVI output) is not really an option for me. The computer I'm using is a special model that all components are fixed.

My initial solution is to use a DVI splitter (a Y shape cable). However, though I can get mirrored displays on two monitors when the computer is on, the images on both monitors disappear when E-run is being executed. After this happens, even if I unplug one of the monitor, the image won't come back.
(Why is this??)


Are there other solutions?


Thank you,
Shu-Ju


Post #2301
Posted 10/19/2008 5:11:48 PM
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Also, I'm wondering if the reason why the Y shape splitter wouldn't work is because the output signal strength is not strong enough to support two extended cables and monitors.
(This doesn't fully explain why I can sometimes get the images on both monitors and why after executing E-run the images disappear...)

If the problem is due to signal strength, I can get a DVI video splitter (a machine rather than just a cable) that not only splits but also enhances the signal.

However, is there anything about E-Prime program that would make signal splitting problematic?

Post #2302
Posted 10/20/2008 10:19:31 AM
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sjyang (10/19/2008)
or 2. alter the presentation between the two monitors from time to time throughout the experiment.

I believe you can do this with E-Prime 2 "Professional", though I have not tried this so you will want to consult with PST staff.

My initial solution is to use a DVI splitter (a Y shape cable). However, though I can get mirrored displays on two monitors when the computer is on, the images on both monitors disappear when E-run is being executed. After this happens, even if I unplug one of the monitor, the image won't come back.
(Why is this??)

Does E-Prime work OK on the DVI when you do not use the splitter? Just trying to figure out if the problem is the DVI or the splitting. Two things to consider: (1) By default, EP goes only to the "primary" monitor, so if your DVI is set as secondary rather than primary then that might cause a problem. (2) E-Prime often changes the screen resolution and refresh rate when it starts an experiment, so I wonder if that could cause a problem.

One final note: Others on the E-Prime mailing list have mentioned the importance of high-quality (i.e., not cheap) splitter boxes when spitting video, especially to make sure it can handle specified video resolutions and refresh rates. If it were me I would invest some good money in a good video splitter.

Just some thoughts, I will be interested to hear from others who know more.

-- David McFarlane, Professional Faultfinder
Post #2303
Posted 10/20/2008 12:47:57 PM
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David McFarlane (10/20/2008)

My initial solution is to use a DVI splitter (a Y shape cable). However, though I can get mirrored displays on two monitors when the computer is on, the images on both monitors disappear when E-run is being executed. After this happens, even if I unplug one of the monitor, the image won't come back.
(Why is this??)

Does E-Prime work OK on the DVI when you do not use the splitter? Just trying to figure out if the problem is the DVI or the splitting. Two things to consider: (1) By default, EP goes only to the "primary" monitor, so if your DVI is set as secondary rather than primary then that might cause a problem. (2) E-Prime often changes the screen resolution and refresh rate when it starts an experiment, so I wonder if that could cause a problem.

One final note: Others on the E-Prime mailing list have mentioned the importance of high-quality (i.e., not cheap) splitter boxes when spitting video, especially to make sure it can handle specified video resolutions and refresh rates. If it were me I would invest some good money in a good video splitter.


E-Prime does work well with just one DVI cable. As a matter of fact, I already ran one condition using the setup. The issue occurs when I add a second monitor and a splitter. I did set the resolution consistent; I'll check the refresh rate though. Thanks for the advice.

Also, could you direct me to where the posts about splitters are? (So people do use splitters. ) That may potentially prevent lots of trial and error.

Post #2304
Posted 10/20/2008 2:06:17 PM
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sjyang (10/20/2008)
Also, could you direct me to where the posts about splitters are?

Try http://groups.google.com/group/e-prime/browse_thread/thread/f3ec439b7e840eba, especially the final post.
Post #2307
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