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Today we're taking an exclusive look at a somewhat different monitor proposition: Samsung's SyncMaster D190S. Part of Samsung's LapFit concept, as that name sort of suggests the 18.5in 16:9 ratio SyncMaster D190S is specifically designed to go with a notebook as a secondary screen, though it also makes sense as a primary monitor when used with a netbook or ultra-portable laptop.

To accommodate this, the D190S eschews the traditional monitor stand in favour of a more compact design very reminiscent of HP's TouchSmart PCs. Except that here - since the company is attempting to keep the screen as low as possible - the feet are tiny, giving the appearance that the display simply rests on the bottom of its bezel.

Setup is as easy as it gets, since the whole monitor is a single unit. When putting it down, simply roll out a wheeled ‘leg' until it clicks, which is an effortless process yet leaves the LD190 standing firm and solid. The leg contains a circular opening to act as a cable guide. Rounded edges combine with a weight of under 4kg to make the whole display easy to pick up and transfer between various locations. Build quality on our sample was not up to Samsung's usual standard, with creaking throughout and too much give on the top edge of the bezel, but it's by no means flimsy and looking at the box ours came in it had clearly done a tour of Samsung's global organisation.


Our model, the SyncMaster D190S, is actually part of a three-model family which all use the same panel and look virtually identical. The differences lie in connectivity. This model uses just plain old analogue D-SUB, while the D190SU also connects over USB using DisplayLink and the high-end LD190X throws wireless video into the mix. There will also be 22in versions available, though there's no guarantee that all these different configurations will make it into the UK.


Right now I can already hear some of you complaining that there is a model without digital connectivity, and usually I'd be the first to agree. But keeping in mind we're talking about a display which will cost less than £100 when it comes to market and uses a cheap TN panel, it actually makes a lot of sense. After all, practically every notebook and netbook in existence either has a VGA port or supports it using an adapter.

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