How do I use an external monitor with a dell inspiron 15 laptop?

Monday, April 26th, 2010 at 2:05 am

I just received my new laptop and I have a 24 inch monitor that I would like to connect it to. I have it connected and to the point where I can turn off the display of the laptop while the monitor is on. I wanted to know if there was any way of closing the laptop while it was on and still have the monitor on. Anyone know how to do this?