The ViewSonic TD1655 is a portable 15.6-inch touchscreen monitor, designed for users who require a versatile secondary display. Whether you’re using it for work, gaming, or entertainment, its Full HD resolution, 10-point multitouch functionality, and USB-C connectivity make it a highly attractive option for professionals and casual users alike. However, as with any tech product, setting up the TD1655 requires some know-how to ensure that you are getting the best experience possible. This review will delve deeply into the setup process for the ViewSonic TD1655, covering every aspect from hardware installation to software configuration and troubleshooting, helping you make the most out of your portable monitor.
Table of Contents
1. Unboxing and First Impressions
The unboxing experience of the ViewSonic TD1655 is straightforward, and it comes packaged with everything you need to get started right away. Inside the box, you’ll find:
- The TD1655 portable monitor
- A USB-C to USB-C cable
- A USB-C to USB-A cable
- A Mini-HDMI to HDMI cable
- A power adapter with USB-C output
- A protective sleeve
- A quick start guide and warranty information
The packaging is minimal yet secure, ensuring that the monitor arrives in excellent condition. The included cables allow for flexible connectivity with various devices, and the protective sleeve is a nice touch for those who plan to carry the monitor with them regularly.
The monitor itself is impressively thin and lightweight, weighing just under 2 pounds and only 0.6 inches thick. This makes it extremely portable and easy to set up anywhere. The aluminum body gives it a sturdy feel, and the foldable kickstand on the back adds to its practical design.
2. Hardware Setup: Connecting the TD1655 to Your Devices
Connecting via USB-C
The ViewSonic TD1655 supports two primary methods of connection: USB-C and Mini-HDMI. For most modern devices, the preferred method is USB-C, as it simplifies both power and data transmission through a single cable.
Here’s how to set up the TD1655 via USB-C:
- Identify the Correct Port: Most laptops, tablets, and smartphones with USB-C ports can connect to the TD1655. Look for a USB-C port on your device that supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode (often labeled with a small lightning bolt or “DP” symbol).
- Connect the Cables: Plug one end of the USB-C to USB-C cable into the monitor and the other end into your device. The monitor will automatically detect the connection and should power on without the need for an external power source. However, if your laptop or tablet doesn’t provide enough power, you may need to use the included power adapter.
- Adjust Display Settings: Once the connection is established, your device should recognize the TD1655 as a second monitor. On Windows, right-click on the desktop and select “Display settings.” On macOS, go to “System Preferences” > “Displays.” You can then choose to extend your display or mirror it, depending on your needs.
- Touchscreen Functionality: The USB-C connection also enables the 10-point touchscreen functionality. This is especially useful for Windows and Android devices, allowing you to interact directly with the screen for tasks like zooming, scrolling, and drawing.
Advantages of USB-C Setup
- Single Cable for Power and Data: The simplicity of using a single USB-C cable for both video output and power makes the setup clean and efficient.
- Full Touchscreen Support: The 10-point touch capability works seamlessly via USB-C on devices that support touch input, providing an interactive experience.
- Fast and Reliable Connection: USB-C provides fast data transmission and is generally more stable than HDMI in terms of responsiveness and ease of setup.
Possible Challenges
- Power Drain: If you’re using a laptop or tablet without an external power source, the TD1655 may drain the battery faster. In such cases, it’s advisable to connect the monitor to its dedicated USB-C power adapter.
- Device Compatibility: Not all USB-C ports support video output. Make sure your device’s USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode before attempting to connect.
Connecting via Mini-HDMI
For devices that don’t support USB-C, such as older laptops, gaming consoles, or certain desktops, the TD1655 can also be connected via Mini-HDMI. Here’s how to set up the monitor using Mini-HDMI:
- Connect the Mini-HDMI Cable: Plug one end of the Mini-HDMI to HDMI cable into the monitor’s Mini-HDMI port, and the other end into your device’s HDMI port.
- Provide External Power: Unlike USB-C, the Mini-HDMI connection does not supply power to the monitor. You will need to connect the TD1655 to a power source using the included USB-C power adapter.
- Adjust Display Settings: As with the USB-C connection, once the HDMI connection is made, you can adjust your display settings on your device to extend or mirror the screen.
- Enable Touch Functionality: While HDMI handles the video signal, it doesn’t support touchscreen functionality. To enable touch, you’ll need to connect the TD1655 to your device via the USB-A to USB-C cable. Plug the USB-A end into your device and the USB-C end into the monitor’s second USB-C port. This will provide the data connection required for the touchscreen to work.
Advantages of Mini-HDMI Setup
- Wider Device Compatibility: HDMI is supported by a broader range of devices, including gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, or Xbox, as well as older laptops and desktops.
- Separate Power Source: Using a dedicated power adapter means that your laptop’s battery won’t be drained by the monitor, which can be beneficial for long sessions.
Possible Challenges
- Cable Clutter: The need for both an HDMI and a separate USB cable for touch functionality can lead to more cables on your desk.
- Touch Setup is More Complex: Setting up touch functionality requires two separate cables, which can complicate the process compared to USB-C’s all-in-one solution.
Using Power Banks for Portability
If you are on the go and need to power the TD1655 without access to an electrical outlet, the monitor can be powered via a USB-C power bank, provided the power bank delivers enough wattage (typically 18W or higher). Simply connect the power bank to the monitor using the USB-C cable and enjoy the same functionality as when plugged into a wall outlet.
This feature adds to the portability of the TD1655, making it an excellent choice for road warriors who need a second screen in cafes, airports, or other remote locations.
3. Setting Up the Display: Calibration and Adjustments
Color Calibration
Out of the box, the ViewSonic TD1655 comes with decent color accuracy, but it may require calibration for tasks that demand precise color reproduction, such as photo or video editing.
To calibrate the monitor:
- Use Built-In Settings: The TD1655 offers several preset color modes that can be adjusted through the on-screen display (OSD) menu. You can access the OSD by pressing the physical buttons located on the side of the monitor. Options include modes for Standard, Game, Movie, and others.
- Calibrate Using Software: For even more precise calibration, you can use third-party software such as DisplayCAL or a hardware calibrator like the X-Rite i1Display Pro. This can help to fine-tune the color temperature, contrast, and brightness settings according to your specific needs.
- Windows Display Calibration: On Windows devices, you can also use the built-in “Calibrate Display Color” tool by going to “Settings” > “Display” > “Advanced display settings.”
Brightness and Contrast Adjustments
At a maximum brightness of 250 nits, the ViewSonic TD1655 is best suited for indoor environments. However, you may want to adjust the brightness and contrast depending on the lighting conditions in your workspace:
- Adjusting Brightness: Navigate to the OSD menu and select “Brightness.” Use the physical buttons to increase or decrease the brightness level to your preference.
- Adjusting Contrast: Similarly, you can adjust the contrast level through the OSD to balance the light and dark areas of the screen.
If you’re working in a brightly lit room, you may find the maximum brightness slightly limiting, but for most office or indoor settings, the display should be adequate.
4. Touchscreen Setup and Gesture Controls
Windows Touchscreen Setup
The ViewSonic TD1655’s touchscreen functionality works out of the box with most modern Windows devices. However, for optimal performance, you can fine-tune the touch settings:
- Access Tablet Settings: Go to “Settings” > “Devices” > “Touchpad” or “Pen & Windows Ink” to adjust touch sensitivity, calibration, and multitouch gestures.
- Customize Gestures: In Windows 10 or 11, you can customize the built-in gestures such as pinch-to-zoom, two-finger scroll, and three-finger swipe. These gestures can help streamline your workflow, especially when multitasking or navigating large documents.
macOS and Android Touchscreen Setup
The TD1655 also supports touch functionality with macOS and Android devices, though the experience may vary:
- macOS: For macOS devices, you may need to install third-party software to enable full touchscreen functionality, as macOS does not natively support touch input on external monitors.
- Android: For Android devices, touch functionality typically works seamlessly via USB-C, especially with devices that support touch input natively, like Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets that offer DeX mode. You can easily navigate through apps, swipe, scroll, and pinch-to-zoom, just as you would on the device’s own screen.
Touchscreen Gestures for Different Operating Systems
One of the standout features of the ViewSonic TD1655 is its 10-point multi-touch capability. This is ideal for those who need more interactivity, whether for work or entertainment. Here’s a breakdown of how the touchscreen gestures operate on different operating systems:
- Windows: The TD1655 supports standard gestures like tap, pinch, zoom, and swipe. On Windows 10/11, you can use multi-touch for tasks such as zooming in on photos, navigating web pages, or controlling various applications. Windows Ink also allows you to use a stylus for handwriting or drawing directly on the screen, making it a great tool for artists or note-takers.
- macOS: Mac users might face some limitations since macOS does not officially support touchscreen functionality. Some third-party apps (like Touch-Base) can enable touch, but it’s not as seamless or integrated as it is on Windows or Android devices.
- Android: If connected via USB-C, most modern Android devices will allow you to use full touch functionality. Gestures such as swiping between home screens, opening apps, and scrolling through content work smoothly. Additionally, if you’re using Samsung’s DeX mode, you can turn your TD1655 into a makeshift laptop, using it as both a touchscreen monitor and a secondary display.
- iOS/iPadOS: Unfortunately, iPhones and iPads do not fully support touch functionality with external monitors, and the TD1655 will act only as a display without the ability to use touchscreen gestures.
5. Customizing the On-Screen Display (OSD)
The ViewSonic TD1655 features a well-designed On-Screen Display (OSD) menu that allows users to fine-tune the monitor settings. Accessing the OSD is simple, using the physical buttons on the side of the monitor. Here are the key customizations you can make through the OSD:
Brightness, Contrast, and Color Modes
The TD1655 comes with a variety of color modes optimized for different tasks, such as “Standard,” “Game,” “Movie,” “Web,” and “Text.” Adjusting these modes helps you get the best performance depending on what you’re doing. For instance:
- Movie Mode: Adjusts brightness and contrast to create more vivid visuals, making it ideal for watching videos.
- Game Mode: Tweaks color temperature and brightness to enhance details in darker scenes.
- Text Mode: Reduces brightness and blue light to prevent eye strain when reading documents for extended periods.
Advanced Settings: Color Temperature and Blue Light Filter
For users who spend long hours in front of the monitor, adjusting the color temperature and enabling the blue light filter is recommended to reduce eye strain. The blue light filter is especially helpful when working late at night, as it reduces the emission of harmful blue light that can interfere with your sleep cycle.
- Color Temperature: This can be adjusted between “Warm,” “Cool,” and “User” settings. The “Warm” setting is often better for reducing eye strain, especially in low-light environments, while “Cool” can be used for more vibrant, cooler tones.
- Blue Light Filter: Through the OSD, you can enable and adjust the blue light filter to different levels depending on your preference. This is an excellent feature for users who often work in dark environments and need to minimize eye fatigue.
Aspect Ratio and Scaling Options
The ViewSonic TD1655 offers aspect ratio control, allowing you to switch between different screen resolutions and scaling options. This is useful when using the monitor with different devices or applications that require a specific display ratio.
For example, if you’re using an older device that outputs a lower resolution, you can adjust the aspect ratio to fill the screen without distorting the image.
6. Use Cases: Where the TD1655 Shines
The versatility of the ViewSonic TD1655 makes it a great tool for a wide range of applications. Its portability, multi-touch capabilities, and excellent display quality ensure that it meets the needs of different types of users. Here are a few key use cases where the TD1655 truly shines:
Business and Productivity
For professionals who are always on the go, the TD1655 is an ideal portable monitor that pairs well with a laptop or tablet. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a briefcase or backpack, while the easy setup ensures that you can quickly establish a dual-monitor setup in a coffee shop, airport lounge, or hotel room.
- Dual Monitor Setup: For those who often work with multiple applications or documents simultaneously, having a second screen dramatically boosts productivity. Whether you’re coding, editing documents, or designing graphics, the TD1655 makes multitasking effortless.
- Touchscreen Features for Presentations: If you’re a business professional who frequently gives presentations, the touchscreen functionality of the TD1655 allows you to engage more dynamically with your content. You can annotate slides, zoom into specific sections, and interact directly with the screen during meetings.
Creative Work and Digital Art
Artists and designers who use drawing tablets or rely on touchscreen devices can benefit greatly from the TD1655. Its 10-point touch functionality and accurate color reproduction make it a solid choice for those who need a portable drawing or sketching surface. Pair it with a stylus, and you have an effective, compact setup for digital art or photo editing.
- Photo Editing: With the monitor’s Full HD resolution and decent color accuracy, photographers can use it as a portable solution for editing on the go. While it may not replace a high-end color-accurate monitor for professional work, it’s a handy companion for quick edits and reviewing images.
- Graphic Design: The monitor’s responsive touch input and crisp display allow graphic designers to work on vector art or perform layout designs, especially when used with design software that supports touch gestures.
Gaming and Entertainment
While the ViewSonic TD1655 is not designed specifically for gaming, it still performs well for casual gaming or streaming media. Its Full HD resolution ensures that games and videos look sharp, and the touch input can be useful for mobile or tablet gaming.
- Console Gaming: Gamers who use portable consoles like the Nintendo Switch will appreciate the larger screen and better image quality. Simply connect the console via HDMI, and you have an instant larger display for gaming on the go.
- Streaming and Movies: The built-in speakers provide decent audio output for watching movies, though audiophiles may want to use external speakers or headphones for better sound quality. The monitor’s compact size and portability make it a great companion for binge-watching series while traveling.
Mobile Devices and Smartphones
The TD1655 is also compatible with smartphones that support USB-C connections, turning your phone into a full-fledged workstation. For example, Samsung DeX allows you to use the TD1655 as both a monitor and an input device, giving you a desktop-like experience straight from your phone.
- Mobile Office Setup: For business travelers who rely on their smartphones, the TD1655 enables you to work more efficiently by expanding your screen real estate. You can use the touchscreen to navigate apps, type documents, or manage emails with greater ease.
7. Troubleshooting and Common Issues
Like any device, you may encounter some issues during the setup process or while using the ViewSonic TD1655. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide to address common problems:
No Signal Detected
If the TD1655 shows a “No Signal” message:
- Check Cables: Ensure that the USB-C or HDMI cables are securely connected on both ends. If you’re using a USB-C connection, make sure your device supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode.
- Use External Power: If the monitor isn’t powering on, try connecting it to the included power adapter, as some laptops may not provide enough power through their USB-C ports.
Touchscreen Not Working
If the touchscreen isn’t responding:
- Check Connection Type: If you’re connected via HDMI, ensure that the USB-A to USB-C cable is also connected to enable touchscreen functionality.
- Install Drivers: On Windows devices, you may need to install drivers or update the device firmware to enable touch support. Check the ViewSonic website for any updates.
Display Looks Blurry or Off-Color
If the display doesn’t look sharp or the colors seem off:
- Adjust Resolution: Make sure that your device is outputting the correct resolution (1920×1080) to the monitor. Check the display settings on your device to ensure the resolution matches.
- Calibrate Display: Use the built-in OSD menu to adjust brightness, contrast, and color temperature, or use software-based calibration tools.
8. Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the ViewSonic TD1655 is an outstanding choice for users seeking a lightweight, versatile, and well-built portable monitor that adds significant value, especially with its multi-touch capability. It offers a balanced blend of portability, functionality, and affordability, making it a solid investment for professionals and creatives who need a high-quality second screen on the go.
While it does have some limitations—such as limited brightness, macOS touch support, and the extra setup required for HDMI users—the overall package is highly compelling. For its target audience, it delivers robust performance, particularly in business, creative, and mobile workflows.
The TD1655 won’t replace a high-end desktop monitor, but as a portable companion, it’s hard to beat. Whether you’re working, creating, or gaming on the go, the ViewSonic TD1655 ensures you stay productive and connected wherever you are.