Setting Up A Different Monitor For Your Cintiq 16 Display

Setting up a different monitor for your Cintiq 16 can be a great way to enhance your creative workflow and productivity. The Cintiq 16, a creative pen display by Wacom, acts as an interactive second monitor for your computer, providing graphic arts professionals and students with a dynamic tool for drawing, navigating menus, and clicking onscreen buttons using the included Wacom Pro Pen 2.

To set up a different monitor with your Cintiq 16, ensure that your computer's video card supports driving additional monitors. You may need a hub or adapter, such as a mini display port to VGA or a USB3 to VGA adapter, to connect the second monitor. Additionally, consider how you want to map the Cintiq's stylus input to the new monitor setup. By default, the stylus input may be mapped to the entire virtual desktop surface across all screens, which can cause issues with scaling and mouse cursor interference. You may need to adjust settings in Windows or MacOS to separate the stylus and mouse inputs and calibrate the stylus input to only reach the Cintiq display.

With the proper connections and configurations in place, you can enjoy the benefits of a dual-monitor setup, allowing you to have reference materials, videos, or additional software open on one screen while working on your designs or illustrations on the Cintiq 16.

Using a hub to allow an extra HDMI port

Types of Hubs

There are two main types of devices that can add extra HDMI ports: HDMI switches and HDMI splitters.

• HDMI Switch: This is essentially a hub that connects to one of your monitor's HDMI ports, allowing you to use that single port for multiple channels. For example, you can connect multiple gaming consoles to an HDMI switch, and then use the switch to decide which device is routed to the monitor. This is ideal if you want to connect multiple devices to a single port.
• HDMI Splitter: This lets you connect the same device to multiple screens. This may be useful if you want to display the same content on multiple monitors simultaneously.

Number of Ports

When choosing an HDMI hub, consider the number of ports you need. HDMI switches and splitters come with varying numbers of ports, typically ranging from two to seven or more. Choose an option that matches the number of devices you want to connect to your monitor. Keep in mind that the price usually increases with the number of ports.

Max Resolution

It's important to select a hub that can match the resolution and capabilities of your monitor. If you have a high-resolution monitor, look for a hub that supports 4K resolution at 60Hz or higher. If you have the latest gaming consoles or a gaming PC, you may need a hub that's compatible with HDMI 2.1 for the best experience.

External Power

Many HDMI hubs require an external power source, so you'll need to have an extra outlet available. Some hubs can draw power from the device they are connected to, but this is less common.

Automatic Switching

Some HDMI switches support automatic switching, which means they will automatically switch to the input of the last active device. This can be a convenient feature, and some switches allow you to turn this feature on or off as needed.

Examples of HDMI Hubs

• Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1): This hub supports 4K monitors at 60Hz and has a variety of ports, including HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, and Ethernet. It's a great option if you need multiple port types and smooth 4K performance.
• UGREEN HDMI Switch 5-in-1: This hub adds four HDMI ports to your setup and supports 4K at 60Hz, HDR, and Dolby Vision. It's an affordable option and also supports automatic switching.
• Gana HDMI Switch: This is a simple and affordable option if you just need to add a single extra HDMI port to your monitor. It has a physical button to switch inputs and doesn't require an external power source.

Mapping the Cintiq

To begin mapping the Cintiq, access the "Tablet PC Settings" in the Settings interface of your Windows operating system. Here, you can attempt to calibrate the stylus input by following the on-screen instructions. However, if you encounter issues like stylus input affecting the mouse cursor or incorrect scaling of stylus input, there are a few additional steps you can take.

Firstly, ensure that you are plugging your monitors and Cintiq into your GPU (graphics processing unit) rather than your motherboard. This will provide the necessary display outputs for your setup. Additionally, adjust your display settings, including display arrangements, resolution, and scaling. It is recommended to turn off Windows Ink if you are experiencing issues with stylus input.

Another important consideration is how you map the Cintiq's active area. You can set the Cintiq as your primary monitor, with the stylus mapping only to the Cintiq's screen. In this case, you would use a mouse to access content on the other monitors. Alternatively, you can use a combination of stylus and mouse inputs on all monitors, but this may require additional configuration to separate stylus and mouse inputs in the operating system settings.

For Mac users, it is important to note that the behaviour of multi-touch gestures on the Cintiq may differ between Windows and MacOS. In MacOS, using two fingers to zoom in or out on the Cintiq may also affect the zoom on the Mac's screen. This behaviour may be undesirable, and you may need to explore additional settings or software to switch this dependency on or off as needed.

Using a mouse to access content on other monitors

The Wacom Cintiq 16 is a creative pen display that acts as a second monitor for your computer. It is geared towards graphic arts students and professionals who can use it to draw, navigate menus, and click buttons onscreen.

The Wacom Cintiq 16 does not have a mapping option for mouse mode in its settings. This is a feature for opaque tablets like the Intuos and the Intuos Pro, not for pen displays like the Cintiq 16. However, there are some alternative ways to use a mouse with the Cintiq 16 to access content on other monitors.

One option is to use the "Display Toggle" feature in the driver settings. This feature allows you to use the pen on your tablet as a cursor on your other monitor. Here are the steps to enable this feature:

• Open "System Preferences".
• Open "Wacom Tablet".
• Set "Device" to your tablet and "Tool" to "Functions".
• Click "Display Toggle" in the button list.
• Click "Pen display to other displays".
• Assign "Display Toggle" to a button or key combination on your tablet.

Another option is to use Open Tablet Driver and its Relative Mode, which is another name for Mouse Mode.

Additionally, if you are using a Windows computer, you can try the following steps:

• Click on one of the options to customize the pen button under the "Tablet" settings.
• Look for the "Mode Toggle" option and click on it.
• When you click on the pen button, it will switch to mouse mode.
• Click on the pen button again to return to normal mode.

By following these steps, you can use a mouse to access content on other monitors while using your Wacom Cintiq 16.

Using a tripod setup

Setting up a Wacom Cintiq 16 on a tripod is a great way to create a flexible and ergonomic workspace for sketching and painting. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set up your Cintiq 16 with a tripod:

Step 1: Acquire the Necessary Equipment

You will need a Wacom Cintiq 16, a tripod, and a VESA mount with a quick-release plate. The VESA mount should be compatible with the size and weight of your Cintiq 16.

Step 2: Attach the VESA Mount to the Tripod

Securely attach the VESA mount to the tripod, following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that the mount is tight and stable to prevent accidental movement or slippage.

Step 3: Attach the Quick-Release Plate to the Cintiq 16

Attach the quick-release plate to the backside of your Cintiq 16. This will allow you to easily attach and detach your Cintiq from the tripod as needed. Make sure the plate is securely fastened to the device.

Step 4: Connect the Cintiq 16 to the Tripod

With the quick-release plate attached to your Cintiq 16, you can now connect it to the VESA mount on the tripod. Ensure that the device is securely attached to the mount before letting go.

Step 5: Adjust the Tripod Height and Angle

Adjust the height and angle of the tripod to your preferred working position. Consider your posture and comfort when making these adjustments to create an optimal working environment.

Step 6: Connect the Cables

Now, you can connect the necessary cables to your Cintiq 16. First, remove the cable port cover by pushing it up following the directional arrows, and then pull it back to expose the 3-in-1 cable port. Connect the 3-in-1 cable into the port, and then plug the power port of the cable to an AC adapter and a power source.

Step 7: Connect to Your Computer

Connect the HDMI and USB ports of the 3-in-1 cable to your computer. Ensure that both connections are secure before proceeding.

Step 8: Power On and Update

Finally, press the power button to turn on your Cintiq 16. Wacom recommends visiting the Wacom Center to check for any updates to the Wacom driver and firmware.

With these steps, you should now have your Cintiq 16 securely mounted on a tripod, ready for your creative endeavours. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of your new setup!

Using a VESA arm

The Cintiq 16 supports VESA mounts, which means you can attach it to a VESA arm to use it as a second monitor. This is a good option if you want to save desk space or have an ergonomic setup.

To set up your Cintiq 16 with a VESA arm, you will need to purchase a VESA mount adapter bracket that is compatible with your specific Cintiq model. Make sure the VESA mount adapter you choose has the correct hole pattern and weight capacity for your Cintiq.

Once you have the VESA mount adapter, follow these steps:

• Attach the VESA mount adapter to the back of your Cintiq 16.
• Secure the Cintiq 16 to the VESA arm by following the instructions provided with your specific VESA arm model. Ensure that you tighten any screws securely to prevent accidental detachment.
• Connect the necessary cables to your Cintiq 16, such as power and HDMI, and route them through the cable management holes on the VESA mount adapter, if available.
• Adjust the height and angle of the VESA arm to your preferred viewing position.
• Ensure that your setup is stable and secure before using your Cintiq 16.

By following these steps, you can effectively use a VESA arm to mount your Cintiq 16 as a second monitor, providing flexibility and saving desk space.

Frequently asked questions