I'm not very tech-savvy and could use some guidance. I recently bought a second monitor and want to use one for gaming on my Xbox while using the other for my computer, streaming software, and other work. My computer only has one HDMI output, so I was considering an HDMI splitter. However, I don't want both monitors to show the same image—I need separate displays. I also have an Elgato capture device for streaming. What equipment or setup would let me connect everything properly?
3 Answers
If the computer truly has only one display output, check whether it has DisplayPort, USB-C with video support, DVI, or another output that can be used with the appropriate adapter. If there are no additional usable outputs, you may need a graphics card or a USB display adapter, depending on your computer. The Xbox should connect to the capture card or directly to a monitor, while the capture card sends the Xbox picture to the streaming computer.
An HDMI splitter is not the right device for this. A splitter duplicates one HDMI signal across multiple screens; it won’t create two independent computer displays. Ideally, connect the computer directly to both monitors using its available video outputs, and connect the Xbox to one monitor’s second HDMI input. You can then switch that monitor between the computer and Xbox using the monitor’s input controls.
My computer only has one HDMI port, which is why I was looking at splitters. I also need the monitors to show different things rather than duplicate the same screen.
The computer’s HDMI port is an output, so it can send a picture to a monitor but cannot receive the Xbox signal by itself. For streaming, connect the Xbox to the capture card’s HDMI input, connect the capture card’s output to a monitor or TV if needed, and connect the capture card to the computer by USB. For two separate computer screens, you still need a second compatible video output from the computer.
I already have an Elgato capture device, and I’m trying to keep the Xbox view separate from the monitor showing my streaming software. A basic splitter sounds like it won’t accomplish that.