Multi-monitor Video Cards

[Richard Josslin <TaoOfDow@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dear Group,

I began trading futures using computers in the early 80s and have used multi-monitor video cards to do so since the early 90s.  My first card was a $2000 STB 4-monitor card that I bought new (at 1/3 off from a computer
discounter) when I first obtained TradeStation.  I've been using multi-monitor cards ever since and can't imagine trading via computer without them.

I disposed of my STB card late last year (actually, I gave it to Jim Osborn, in tribute to his superb and thankless effort to keep this group afloat), as it was limited to use with only DOS or Win 3.1x, which I abandoned
when TS 3.5 worked no more due to its lack of Y2K compatibility.  Beginning last year, I have used Colorgraphics, Appian, and Matrox cards, and am currently using a Colorgraphics card in each of two computers, running a
total of 8 monitors.  Each brand, in my opinion, has its own combination of advantages and disadvantages, and I imagine that what would be best would depend on the needs of the individual user.

What I do want to suggest, however, is an alternative source for multi-monitor cards, especially now that they have become more popular and available as add-on items with OEM equipment.  Namely, eBay.  I have purchased
almost new and guaranteed 4-monitor Colorgraphics cards on eBay for $75 and almost new and guaranteed 2-monitor Appian cards there for $50 --- both those cards sell at retail in the range of $500-$800.  Of course, this
means that I have had to continue to search eBay every few days until a card that I wanted became available, and once available, that I may have had to pass on purchasing the card if another bidder bid the price over what
I was willing to pay.  Nonetheless, I have consistently found quality multi-monitor cards at auction on eBay; have been able to purchase them there, using patience and persistence, for but a fraction of their retail
price; and have had nothing but success with the many cards (and other items) that I have bought over the last year or so through eBay.  I commend eBay to you as another, less expensive source of mullti-monitor video
cards.

Sincerely,

Richard