Turn off computer before connecting VGA monitor?

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lopdog

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Should I turn off/hibernate my laptop before connecting a VGA external monitor, or can I just plug it in? Or would it be a good idea at least to suspend before I connect?
 
No, just plug it in.

But if you want to be very safe (ie power issues on the data) Then turn off first
Anyway, I've noticed some laptops require you to have the Monitor plugged in before starting, so it will turn on (without pressing any function keys)
 
That's reasonable
Actually the only ones that you cannot plug in whilst it's running is:
The round PS2 connector (if you have one) for external Keyboard/Mouse

Can't think of anymore
 
KB/Mouse is a current sensing device; break/make a connection can destroy the
hardware chip.

Other devices sensitive to powered on conditions for cabling is Scsi devices.
Unless the device is labeled for 'hot-plugging' like USB or Firewire, I try to do-the-safe-thing.

I've always treaded video carefully after witnessing a monitor meltdown when plugging the VGA cable :(

Of course, serial lines (rj11) or ethernet (rj45) can be hot-plugged.
 
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