How to Keep Terminal on Second Display in Linux

Using a second display can greatly enhance your productivity while working on your Linux system. It allows you to have multiple windows open at the same time, making it easier to multitask and manage your work. However, by default, the terminal window in Linux opens on the primary display. In this article, we will show you how to keep the terminal on the second display in Linux, so you can have it readily available for your tasks.

Method 1: Moving Terminal Window to Second Display

The first method involves manually moving the terminal window to the second display. Follow these steps:

1. Open the terminal window by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T or by searching for "Terminal" in the applications menu.
2. Click and hold the title bar of the terminal window.
3. Drag the window to the second display.
4. Release the mouse button to drop the terminal window on the second display.

That's it! The terminal window will now open on the second display whenever you launch it.

Method 2: Using Command Line Options

If you prefer a more permanent solution, you can use command line options to set the terminal window to open on the second display automatically. Follow these steps:

1. Open the terminal window by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T or by searching for "Terminal" in the applications menu.
2. Right-click on the terminal window and select "Preferences" from the context menu.
3. In the "Profiles" tab, select your desired profile or create a new one.
4. Click on the "Edit" button to modify the selected profile.
5. In the "Title and Command" tab, scroll down and find the "Run a custom command instead of my shell" option.
6. Check the box next to the option and enter the following command in the text field: gnome-terminal --display=:0.1
7. Click "Close" to save the changes.

Now, whenever you open a new terminal window, it will automatically appear on the second display.

Method 3: Setting Up Keyboard Shortcut

If you frequently switch between displays and want a quick way to move the terminal window, you can set up a keyboard shortcut. Follow these steps:

1. Open the terminal window by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T or by searching for "Terminal" in the applications menu.
2. Click on "Edit" in the menu bar and select "Preferences."
3. In the "Shortcuts" tab, click on "Custom Shortcuts" in the left sidebar.
4. Click on the "+" button to add a new shortcut.
5. In the "Name" field, enter a descriptive name for the shortcut (e.g., "Move Terminal to Second Display").
6. In the "Command" field, enter the following command: gnome-terminal --display=:0.1
7. Click on "Apply" to save the shortcut.
8. Select the newly created shortcut and click on the "Set Shortcut" button.
9. Press the desired key combination for the shortcut (e.g., Ctrl+Alt+M).
10. Close the preferences window.

Now, whenever you press the assigned key combination, the terminal window will move to the second display.

Conclusion

With these methods, you can easily keep the terminal window on the second display in Linux. Whether you prefer manually moving the window, using command line options, or setting up a keyboard shortcut, you have the flexibility to choose the method that suits your workflow. Enjoy the improved productivity and convenience of having the terminal readily available on your second display!

References

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