Abstract: Described is a method and system a system and method for dynamically and intelligently configuring a computer system's video-related settings upon connection of a monitor, and/or reconfiguring upon disconnection. A monitor configuration may include one or more display mechanisms, their video settings, relative positioning, and may include power scheme data. When a monitor is plugged into or unplugged from a computer system, a monitor manager component is notified and determines the current configuration, such as based on monitor identifiers. The current configuration is searched against persisted monitor configurations seeking a match. If previous monitor configuration data is found, the previous monitor configuration is applied. If not an exact match, configuration data is constructed based on similar configuration data that is persisted, or by querying for capabilities and iterating as necessary to find a video mode that the video card and monitor can use.

Abstract: A system and process for interacting with a system in an insecure state is described. Before logging into a secure state of a computer system, a user is able to access limited information including calendar information regarding meetings for that day and the like. In some aspects of the invention, a user may interact with a displayed note pad for receiving handwritten or typed notes. Aspects of the described system and method permit a user to quickly review or interact with a computer prior to logging into a secured state of the computer system.