How to import a video signal to a laptop?

Factual Questions
1

Hi,
I’m looking for a way to use one of the many laptops I have floating around to work as a temporary display for a desktop computer. Why is this so hard to do?? Most computers only have Video->out functionality, but no import.

I am not editing video or anything like that, I just need a quick monitor and it would be a great solution to be able to carry a laptop over to where you need one and then export your display from the box or other laptop (trouble-shooting) that requires one.

I thought for sure there’d be a USB style device that would do this maybe with some software to load on the system or maybe even a PCMCIA card with a video out that I could buy just for the laptops, but I’m not see anything available- what gives?

Does anyone know of a way I can export a video signal to a laptop display?

2

The simplest solution might actually be network-based; programs like MaxiVista can turn your laptop into a virtual monitor that connects to your desktop over the Internet, ethernet, or local Wi-Fi. No additional hardware required. There might be some lag so this probably isn’t the ideal solution for gaming, etc., but it might just work for everyday office tasks.

3

You can also use the built in Remote desktop app if they are windows system.