Second Monitor

I’ve got some extra cash on hand and I think I’m going to buy a second monitor. I usually have several programs (Dreamweaver Photoshop Flash IE Soldier of Fortune Word) open. It would be good to have more real estate open, but I have a few questions about it.

1.) Do the monitors have to be the same size and resolution? My current monitor is a 21" running at 1600x1200 resolution, but another monitor that size won’t fit on my desk. I’m thinking of a 17" or maybe a 19", but I can’t find any 17" running at 1600x1200 (which is probably a must because I love my resolution…)

2.) Does the taskbar run across the second monitor?
2a.) If Yes, does the clock have to be on the right one?

3.) Would it be a problem if the monitors aren’t right next to each other (ie one on one side othe desk| work space | other monitor) I don’t have room next to each other… LOL

4.) What is a good price for a monitor that is either 17" or 19" and has 1600x1200 Resolution (and 85 hz refresh rate at 1600x1200)?

5.) What are the advantages/disadvantages of having 2 monitors?

6.) If you maximize a program does it span both or just one? What about fullscreen popup windows?

Thanks :thumb: