Things to consider when buying a desktop to use dual screens in linux

Question

I'm about to buy a new desktop. I would like to be able to use two monitors. I am not sure what features will be most important here. I will probably run Ubunbtu, although I haven't decided (I might try Arch). The computer will mostly be for simple tasks: email, writing, though some occasionally more strenuous task (editing photos, some R analysis...)

• I believe I will need two distinct outputs (One VGA, one HDMI, probably)
• Is a separate graphics card important, or will the inbuilt graphics manage it?
• How much RAM should I be considering?
• Is the processor speed important?

Answer 1

my graphics card has three outputs (vga, hdmi and dvi), with ubuntu 11.04 and 11.10 i am able to connect two screens to one card. After connecting them, i can setup dual screen under screen options. I think in build graphics can manage it. AFAIK RAM or Processor is not important.

It's no pain.

Answer 2

• You don't need different outputs; my screens are both attached to DVI ports.
• Depends on the card. You should check its manual. Obviously it should have two outputs, but if they're the same type of port you can be 99% sure it supports dual screen.
• RAM or CPU will not be an issue as long as it's enough to run modern distros.