Based on the information provided, you cannot directly connect your laptop to an all-in-one PC to use the all-in-one's screen as a display because the display ports on the all-in-one are output-only.
Understanding All-in-One PC Display Ports
Connecting a laptop to an all-in-one PC is a common query, often aimed at using the all-in-one's larger screen as a second monitor for the laptop. However, the capability depends entirely on the specific ports on the all-in-one.
As per the reference:
- The display ports (such as HDMI) available on the all-in-one computer are only Display OUT ports.
- They do not work as a display IN.
This is a critical distinction. A Display OUT port sends video signals from the computer (in this case, the all-in-one) to another screen. A Display IN port is required to receive a video signal from another device (like your laptop) to be displayed on the computer's screen.
In simple terms: Your all-in-one's display ports are like an output hose for video, not an input valve.
Why Direct Display Connection Fails
Because the all-in-one's ports are Display OUT only, you cannot plug your laptop's video output (like its HDMI or DisplayPort) into the all-in-one's ports and expect the all-in-one's screen to show your laptop's display. The all-in-one's ports are designed to connect to an external monitor, not to receive a signal from another computer to display on its own built-in screen.
Think of it this way:
| Connection Type | All-in-One Port Function (Based on Reference) | Laptop Port Function (Typically Output) | Possible Outcome (Based on Reference) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laptop Output to All-in-One Input | Does NOT have Display IN functionality | Sends video signal | Cannot use All-in-One screen as Laptop display |
| All-in-One Output to External Monitor | Sends video signal (Display OUT) | N/A | Can connect an external monitor to the All-in-One (as mentioned in the reference) |
The reference specifically notes, "If you want you can connect another monitor to your All-in-one computer using the HDMI port available." This reinforces that the HDMI port on the all-in-one functions as an output, not an input.
Conclusion on Direct Display Sharing
Based solely on the information provided about the all-in-one's display ports being output-only, you cannot connect your laptop to the all-in-one PC via these ports to use the all-in-one's screen as a display for the laptop. The hardware simply isn't configured for that specific type of input.
