Axim as Secondary Monitor

greatjc · 03-10-09, 10:36 AM

I've been trying to set up a small secondary monitor for my computer, without buying a new monitor. I'd like to use a program for my Axim X30 to accomplish this. However, I'm running Windows Vista x64, which seems to make this impossible.

If you have any suggestions, it would be GREATLY appreciated.

Here's what I've tried so far:
1. Old laptop with MaxiVista - got around unsigned driver problem, still doesn't work because of Vista display driver architecture

2. Axim X30 with MS SideShow PDA preview - doesn't work because Axim OS is too old

3. Axim X30 with Innobec SideWindow - got around installation problem with Vista, still doesn't work because of unsigned driver & lack of ActiveSync

I'd really like to use the Axim to show data when I've got another app in fullscreen on my monitor (e.g. If I'm playing a game, I could still see my IM windows on the Axim screen).

HELP!

emeraldgirl08 · 03-10-09, 03:40 PM

You could always use an IM like Palringo, IM Plus, etc. and leave it hooked up to your USB sync cable.

I can do this and leave the Axim on and it'll still stream radio, deliver IM's, and function independently from the main comp.

As far as showing images from your main comp I don't know if it'll work. I mean the Axim only has a limited resolution and the display wouldn't be so good. If you get something going let us know!

Box · 03-10-09, 07:02 PM

There is a program called Sidewindow that might do what you want.

I've never tried it and I'm not sure if it is up to date.

I might give it a try when I have a bit of time and let you know but if you get to try it first I'd be happy to hear if it works.

Edit: I just tried it, it works fine on an X51v running L11 6.1

You can certainly drag anything on your main monitor to the Ax.

I'll check it out a bit more thoroughly tomorrow.

Edit: Sorry, I just noticed you tried side window already.

greatjc · 03-11-09, 03:05 PM

Yeah, SideWindow was exactly what I was looking for. Unfortunately, I couldn't get it to work with Windows Mobile Device Center (Vista), so I can't use it.

It looks like what I'm trying to do might be impossible in Vista with the hardware I have available, but that won't stop me from trying anyway. Any other ideas would be appreciated.

emeraldgirl08 · 03-12-09, 10:52 AM

Have you tried running it in XP compatibility mode? Don't know if that would help.

greatjc · 03-12-09, 11:45 AM

I already tried it. I even tried to load ActiveSync in compatibility mode in Vista (didn't work).

I've gone as far as to hack Vista into loading unsigned drivers for Maxivista, which I'd assume I'd have to do for SideWindow anyway. I've thrown a quite a bit of brainpower at this f'n idea already. Right now, I'm hoping to find something Netmeeting-like for PPC2003. Basically, some sort of remote access desktop sharing app that doesn't blank the primary monitor.

Another idea would be to always run W2K or XP in a VM, for the sole purpose of running SideWindow. However, that seems unnecessarily complicated, and I don't think what I'd get out of it would be worth the potential performance hit on my primary PC. If I get bored, I may test it out, just for the hell of it.

Thanks for the ideas, though. I'm still open to more suggestions, of course.

EdrickV · 04-07-09, 11:05 PM

Only thing that occurs to me off hand might be to try using a VNC server and client.
Ultra VNC : Remote Support Software, Remote Support tool, Remote Desktop Control, Remote Access Software, PC Remote Control
Download VNC Viewer 3.3.5.2 for Windows Mobile PocketPC - Use this program to control your desktop with your IPAQ. You can control computers running Unix, Solaris, Linux, Windows and Mac. - Softpedia

greatjc · 05-15-09, 09:14 AM

VNC wouldn't work, because I'm not looking to mirror my display.

UNLESS I can get VNC to run off of a secondary virtual display on the Axim, like it does in Linux (separate X session). If anyone's clever enough to figure this out, I'm all ears.

I also tried an excellent freeware program called ZoneScreen. Didn't work. Basically, the only way I can do this is to load XPDM drivers for Vista (assuming I can even find them for my video card). However, I'm not willing to live with the random BSODs while playing video, just so I can get this working.

If anyone can figure out the VNC trick I proposed, let me know. Otherwise, I'm going back to the drawing board to re-spec my requirements. I'll keep the board updated on what I come up with.

tsttm · 06-02-09, 12:37 PM

i did this once & it worked well, but i stopped using it because it didn't seem useful.

I'll have to try to remember what i used, although it may have been innobec because i use win xp. It worked great.

so it doesn't work with vista? that's a shame.

btw, did you buy maxivista? i used the trial with my vista 32 bit laptop & worked ok. I really love it but can't justify the price of it. if you bought it, i may be willing to take it off your hands.

greatjc · 06-05-09, 02:39 AM

I just tested using the trial version of MaxiVista.

There's a rumor that MaxiVista will have a version fully compatible with Vista "soon." I'll believe it when I see it.

So far, I'm considering using a spare tablet PC with Synergy as my secondary display. It will be a completely separate PC, but at least I'll be able to control it with my mouse/keyboard. I could still have a separate web window open on it, without interfering with whatever I have in full screen on my primary PC. More testing will need to be done, to see if it's actually useful.