Is there a way that I can use the same monitor with both my
desktop and notebook computers, without constantly switching
cables?KVM Switch  You need a KVM switch (KVM stands for
keyboard, video, monitor). This lets you hook a single keyboard,
monitor, and mouse up to multiple PCs and notebooks. The actual
computers can run simultaneously, while the monitor displays
only what's running on the selected computer; the mouse and
keyboard control the selected system.  A button on the front of
the KVM lets you toggle between systems. In your case, you
wanted the monitor to extend the amount of data displayed on
your notebook. That's no problem, as long as your notebook
supports dual displays.D-Link DKVM-2  KVM switches are
particularly useful in server rooms, where dozens of servers can
be hooked into one KVM. For your purposes, though, a personal
KVM switch is perfect. A good place to start is with a D-Link
DKVM-2 ($49 direct), which can handle two PCs. (Similar switches
are available from companies such as Avocent