Inspiron 8500 + can't find external monitor

[jacowhee]

I have recently upgraded from FC1 -> FC2 on my Dell Inspiron 8500. I am dual booting with Windows XP.

I use a docking station (d/port) that offers a dvi connection so I can connect my external digital lcd screen (Viewsonic VPD150). In Windows I am able to run the monitors at the same time giving me a wide desktop setup.

I am trying to achieve the same effect in Fedora Core (2) but not having any luck. Everything is plugged in, just like when using windows. In Settings->Display I have enabled the dual-head display settings, and have selected the Viewsonic monitor that is my model (VPD150), however it looses these settings everytime I restart the x server (to try and have the settings take effect). I am using different screen resolutions on each monitor.

Is there anyway to send a signal of some sort to the digital flat panel to try and "wake" it up?

How can I get Fedora to recognize the external monitor on bootup?

Any ideas?

Thanks,
-- Jacob

[olivierv]

Hey-

Did you ever fix your problem? If not I might be able to help but I'd need to know what make video card you have in your laptop (ATI or NVIDIA). I've been able to get a large desktop on my I8200 using an ATI m9000 and am now stuck with dual desktops with my I9100 using an ATI m9700.