How to Use the Command 'krfb-virtualmonitor' (with examples)

The krfb-virtualmonitor command is a useful utility designed for users who want to create virtual monitors on a Linux system running KDE. This command-line tool allows the creation of a virtual display, which can subsequently be accessed via VNC (Virtual Network Computing). This feature is particularly beneficial for those needing to extend or mirror their display environment without the need for additional physical monitors. This capability can be essential for developers, IT professionals, and power users requiring remote access to multi-monitor setups or testing multi-display applications.

Use Case: Create a Virtual Monitor

Code:

krfb-virtualmonitor --resolution 1920x1080 --name monitor_name --password password --port 5900

Motivation:

Creating a virtual monitor using krfb-virtualmonitor can be incredibly advantageous in numerous scenarios. For instance, if you’re a developer working on software that’s intended to be used across multiple displays or supports high resolutions, having a virtual monitor allows you to simulate this environment without the need for physical monitors. This setup could be critical when debugging, testing, or showcasing applications to clients remotely. Furthermore, users who need to access their workstations remotely might prefer using a virtual monitor to keep their desktop layouts intact, enhancing productivity even when not physically present at the workstation.

Explanation:

• --resolution 1920x1080: This argument specifies the resolution of the virtual monitor. In this case, it’s set to 1920x1080, which is a common full HD display resolution. Adjusting the resolution can help mimic different display sizes or accommodate specific application requirements.

• --name monitor_name: By assigning a name like monitor_name, this argument ensures easy identification of the virtual monitor, especially when multiple virtual and physical displays are configured on the system. Users can choose any name that is meaningful to them or their workflow.

• --password password: This argument sets a password for the VNC connection, adding a layer of security by preventing unauthorized access to the virtual monitor. Users should replace password with a strong, memorable password to safeguard their virtual environment.

• --port 5900: This argument specifies the network port for VNC access. Port 5900 is the default for VNC servers, making it a traditional choice. However, users might opt for a different port if 5900 is in use or if firewall configurations necessitate a different setting.

Example Output:

Upon executing the command, you may observe a terminal output that confirms the creation of a virtual monitor. This output might look like:

Virtual monitor 'monitor_name' created with resolution 1920x1080.
VNC server started on port 5900 with specified password.

This message indicates that your virtual monitor setup is complete and ready for VNC access, allowing you to begin remote interaction with this new display immediately.

Conclusion:

The krfb-virtualmonitor command is a powerful tool for creating virtual displays in a KDE environment. Through a single command, users can enhance their productivity and flexibility by setting up multi-monitor configurations for various use cases, such as software development, testing, and remote access. By understanding how to tailor each argument, users can effectively simulate the exact display environment they need without the constraints of physical hardware, making it a valuable resource in many professional settings.