How To Set Up DaVinci Resolve Dual Screens - Tutorial

Can You Do Split Screen On Davinci Resolve?

Yes you can! If you're like me and have just saved up to get a new monitor, the excitement of expanding your workspace is palpable.

If you've been using Premiere Pro for a month, you're already familiar with the concept of a dual-screen setup. It's where you can spread your workspace across two monitors, making it easier to manage your timeline, preview, and other panels. In DaVinci Resolve, this feature is equally beneficial, especially when color grading or editing. However, sometimes, this option might be greyed out. Let's dive into why this happens and how to fix it.

In This Article:

• The step-by-step guide to activating dual screen mode in DaVinci Resolve.
• Solutions to common challenges you might face.
• Tips for optimizing your dual-screen setup for a smoother workflow.
• Exclusive features available for Studio version users.

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Locating the Workspace Option

‍To start, open DaVinci Resolve. At the top of the interface, you'll find a menu bar, similar to what you might have seen in Premiere Pro. In this menu bar, look for an option labeled "Workspace." This is where you'll find settings related to the layout and display of DaVinci Resolve.

Activating Dual Screen

‍Once you've clicked on "Workspace," a dropdown menu will appear. Within this menu, search for an option labeled "Dual Screen." Clicking on this will reveal another option labeled "On." Selecting this will activate the dual screen mode. Believe me, this feature is a game-changer, especially if you're used to working with multiple screens in Premiere Pro.

Navigating to the Primary Display Option

‍Now that you've got dual screens activated, you might want to set one as your primary display. To do this, head back to the "Workspace" option in the menu bar. From the dropdown, look for "Primary Display."

Choosing Your Primary Display

‍Once you click on "Primary Display," you'll be presented with options representing your connected screens. Simply click on your preferred screen to set it as the primary display. This is where you'll primarily be working from, so choose the one that feels most comfortable.

Full Screen Timeline Activation

‍For a more immersive editing experience, you can enable the full screen for your timeline. To do this, go back to the "Workspace" option in the menu. Under "Dual Screen," you'll find an option labeled "Full Screen Timeline." Activating this will expand your timeline to fit the entirety of your screen, giving you a clearer view of your edits. Seriously, this feature is a lifesaver when you're working on intricate edits.

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Video Preview on the Second Monitor (Paid Version Only)

Accessing Video Clean Feed

‍If you're using the paid Studio version of DaVinci Resolve, you have the added advantage of previewing your video on a separate monitor. To access this feature, head to "Workspace" and then navigate to "Video Clean Feed."

Selecting a Display for Video Preview

‍Once you're in "Video Clean Feed," you'll be presented with options representing your connected screens. Click on the screen where you'd like your video to be previewed. This way, you can edit on one screen and simultaneously view the changes on another. All in all, it's a feature that truly enhances the editing process.

DaVinci Resolve Dual Screen Greyed Out

Why can't i use dual screen in DaVinci Resolve?

It's usually caused by one of the three following issues:

• Hardware Requirements:DaVinci Resolve, unlike Premiere Pro, has specific hardware requirements. For the dual screen to work, you might need a Blackmagic breakout device, such as a Decklink. Without this, DaVinci Resolve might not allow the use of two monitors. So, look into whether your setup meets this requirement.
• Sequence of Launching:Believe me, the order in which you do things matters. If you start DaVinci Resolve before connecting the second display, the software might not recognize the dual-screen setup. It's a bit like plugging in a USB after opening a software that needs it; sometimes, the software just doesn't see it unless it's there from the start.
• Connection Types:No worries if this sounds technical, but the type of connection you use for your monitors (HDMI or DisplayPort) might affect this feature. It's like using different cables for the same device; sometimes, they just don't work the same way.

How to Enable the Dual Screen Option:

1. Invest in Blackmagic's Breakout Devices:If you're serious about using DaVinci Resolve's dual screen feature, consider getting a Blackmagic breakout device. It's an investment, but it ensures that the software fully supports your dual monitor setup. You can find these devices on Blackmagic's official website or trusted retailers.
2. Relaunch DaVinci Resolve:This is where you'll need to follow a specific sequence. First, ensure that both monitors are connected and recognized by your computer. Then, launch DaVinci Resolve. By doing this, you're giving the software a clear signal that you have two screens ready to go. It's a bit like turning on the TV first before switching on your gaming console; it just works better that way.
3. Check Your Connections:If you're still facing issues, look into the type of connections you're using. If one monitor is connected via HDMI and the other via DisplayPort, try to make them uniform. It's like ensuring both your speakers are connected the same way for optimal sound.
4. Reset UI Layout:In DaVinci Resolve, go to the 'Workspace' menu (usually found at the top of the screen). From there, you'll see an option called 'Reset UI Layout'. Click on it. This action is akin to resetting your workspace in Premiere Pro. It brings everything back to its default layout, which might help in recognizing the dual screens.