Dual monitoring is a very efficient way for individuals to get their work done. Whatever you may use the two monitors for, it allows you to separate applications for your convenience and ease of use. This concept has been around for over a decade and manufacturers are just now coming up with solutions that provide the same efficiency in a more spacious design.

Samsung has recently released the SyncMaster 2263DX, which just might solve some of the special issues of dual monitoring. This system is a combination of a 22″ and 7″ monitor. The 7-inch monitor actually attaches to the 22″ monitor. This gives consumers two monitors that only take up the space of one, with the added bonus of using the small unit for secondary applications only (applications like web browsing, video, or instant messaging).

The primary monitor, 22-inch, has a resolution of 1680 x 1050, a response time of 5mx, and a contrast ration of 1000:1. If you know your monitors, you know this is an average monitor. The big difference with this monitor, from single units, is the fact that you must connect it with a USB port along with a DVI, HDMI, or VGA cable.

The secondary monitor, 7-inch, was intentionally designed as such. With a resolution of 800 x 480, response time of 30ms, and contrast ratio of 400:1, this monitor is best used with smaller applications like instant messaging or video conferencing.

Through the use of a swivel arm, the smaller monitor is attached to the larger one on either the left or right side, or even on the top. The smaller unit is flexible in its position as users can rotate the unit to their desired position. The unit can also be manipulated to stay in either landscape or portrait layout.

An added bonus, to this setup, is the fact that the 7-inch monitor can be used as a standalone unit. This counteracts the purpose of the design, but could be useful in some situations. For example, it can be used as a secondary laptop monitor. For those who travel or need portability, this is a great-added benefit.

The Samsung SyncMaster 2263DX offers telecommunications benefits as well as dual monitoring. There is a 3.0M webcam, 1.5W down firing speakers, and a microphone integrated directly into the larger monitor. It is the perfect set up for videoconferencing.

The SyncMaster 2263DX can usually be found for around $550. This is a bit pricey for a 22″ monitor, most of which can be purchased for around $200. You could easily buy two 22″ monitors for less than you could purchase the new 2263DX. However, the 2263DX offers spacious efficiency.

The bottom line is whether you are looking for space saver technology or budget friendly answers. If you have the space, purchasing two monitors is obviously the way to go. If your desk space is slim, you may just have to spend the extra cash. If you are into toys, and just need to have the latest and greatest, the Samsung SyncMaster 2263DX is a must have.