Terminal Server monitor spanning

I want to allow users to have their terminal services session span across two screens. I can create a shortcut that points to mstsc /w:2560 /h:1024 /v:xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx but no matter what I do I cannot get the session to span the width of both monitors, even if I up the 2560 to 4000. I'm assuming that this is limited on the Terminal Server itself but would it be a group policy or a hardware issue?

 

I haven't worked with terminal servers for about two years; however I do remember the ones I did work with were very limited in their video options.

If the terminal servers have only one VGA output you are limited to one monitor (on PCs that accept 2+ monitors, each has to be hooked to a distinct VGA, DVI or HDMI output - a splitter cable will only show identical images on each monitor).

If your specific terminal server make/model has multiple video output ports, I'd consult the mfr's website or tech support for specifics on if and how dual monitor support can be enabled.

If this doesn't work and you must have dual monitor support, the only other option would be to replace the terminal servers with basic PCs. You may be able to find off-lease refurbished ones with XP Pro preinstalled for about $150 plus the cost of a video card upgrade (if you go this route, be sure the PC has a PCI-e video card slot - you will have to add a low profile video card that is able to handle two monitors).

Example refurbished PC (this one has the PCI-e video card slot):

http://www.compusa.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=7122667&CatId=5139

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/opgx280/en/ug/specs02.htm

Example low-profile video card:

http://www.compusa.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=6681269&CatId=2306

Quick guide to dual-monitor setups:

http://static.highspeedbackbone.net/html/guide_dual_monitors.html

Hope this helps.