I have an idea – what if we incorporated two screens into a framework laptop shell, complete with the beautiful framework hinge, and included an internal battery for power? We could repurpose the upper aluminium frame, the hinges, and the battery space, but we would need a clever individual to develop a “mainboard” that accepts USB-C display input and provides two monitor outputs. It could even be designed to work with the existing expansion slot architecture. If we included two type-C ports, users could choose whether they want the external monitor to act as an external battery bank.
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It feels like a dual screen lapdock though not sure how useful a setup like this without a touchscreen.
I was thinking of a lapdock for the Framework but that would cost a lot more.
For anyone looking for an affordable controller that ships to Europe (Germany at least). I have tested this one and it works great:
https://de.aliexpress.com/item/1005006495336374.html
It draws power through USB-C, but needs a separate mini-dp connection (in my case with a usb-c to mini-DP cable) for the signal.
I would prefer one which goes straight to USB-C like the one recommended before, but unfortunately I couldn’t find one for a reasonable price that ships to the EU.
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I guess it needs an adapter with power delivery. If you get one let us know if it works!
https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-DisplayPort-Adapter-Power-Delivery/dp/B084DW7MJ2
Actually I just let it draw power from my charger. I’m unlikely to use the second monitor when on battery power anyway and if i ever have to I can just use a second port on the laptop (one for power and one for signal).
If using only one USB-C port is a must have, i think its better to get a different controller. This seller also ships the one tested and recommended in the posts above to the EU, but its much more expensive: https://de.aliexpress.com/item/1005005849614883.html
Is there some way to convert the display of a framework laptop into a regular external monitor? I would love to upgrade my laptop screen to the higher resolution and refresh rate option, but can’t justify doing so if I’ll have no use for the previous display.
Given how high-quality these displays are, I could absolutely see an external monitor casing being sold as its own product separate from the laptops entirely.
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See this thread with lots of previous discussion on the subject: HDMI controller board for display panel
There are a number of compatible driver boards available from AliExpress, but I’m not sure if anyone’s designed a clean enclosure.
I just ordered a controller for myself yesterday, the one with USB C power and full size display port input so I can use with my desktop computer as well, a little troublesome if I used the Framework or my ROG Ally but least it’s more flexible in it’s operation. I’ll most likely 3D print a plastic enclosure for the controller but get the Framework shell and bezel to house the display itself
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