HP ThinPro - True Multi-Monitor Mode for RDP

Overview

Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) has offered support for multiple monitors since RDP 6 in 2006. In RDP 7, an

improved feature known as true multi-monitor mode was first supported. This white paper discusses the difference and

subtleties of server setup that affect the choice of modes.

Span mode

In span mode, the client’s monitors are treated as if they were one combined monitor with the combined resolutions of the

monitors involved. In the case of two 1600x1200 monitors, the remote desktop behaves the same as if it were one

3200x1200 monitor. The taskbar spans both monitors. Newly-created windows might show up in the center of the

combined screen, split between the monitors. An expanded window will fill both monitors rather than the one on which it

originated. The Screen Resolution settings in the Display Control Panel utility show one large virtual monitor.

True multi-monitor mode

In true multi-monitor mode, the RDP server is aware of the layout of the client’s monitors and behaves more intelligently.

The taskbar exists only on the primary monitor. Newly-created windows tend to show up in the center of one of the

monitors only. Windows expand to fill only their monitor, rather than all of them. The Screen Resolution settings in the

Display Control Panel utility shows both virtual monitors.