My Motherboard has 3 display outputs. Can I use 3 Screens?

Question

I am just building my first computer (going to instal linux, probably Ubuntu). I have been a Mac boy for the last four years so I am feeling somewhat confused.

I am thinking about getting this ASUS P8H67-M LE B3 Intel H67 Motherboard for $99 CAD.

According to the specs it has these display ports:

• VGA Ports: 1
• DVI Ports: 1
• HDMI Ports: 1

Here are my questions:

1. Since the computer has 3 ports for displays does that mean that I can plug in 3 displays? Will they all work at the same time? Will they mirror each other?
2. If I can only use one display at the same time AND I buy a video card with one additional vga output. Will This allow me to use two screens?

Answer 1

1. The H67 supports 2 outputs: HDMI, and DVI-I. The VGA is a peel-out from the DVI-I and does not function independently.

2. Yes, depending on the OS.

Answer 2

1. According to the chipset specs, you can use up to two monitors with that motherboard using only the integrated ports. If you use all 3, I assume that one of them won't work, due to chipset limitations. If you use 2 displays, they, according to the specs, will not mirror unless they are set to, and will all work at the same time.

2. As for adding a video card with a vga output, on some boards/chipsets this will work and on some it will not. Some choose to disable the onboard video when a pcie/pci card is attached. YMMV. Considering that it's a new board, I'd say it'll most likely work.