help running dual monitors

Hey

I have one Dell E196FP one Dell E171FP, I was wondering if it's possible to play a game on one, whilst still having the desktop open on the other so I can see if I get any instant messages etc? I tried using Nvidias nView and the trial of ultramon but each time I open a game the other monitor just turns off.
Is there some special setting I need turned on, or is it just not possible?

Thanks in advance

depends on the game. make sure the game is in windowed mode.
WoW does it just fine for example.

ah ok, it's mainly GTA San Andreas I was trying to play but it doesn't have a windowed mode. There is a mod to play it in a window but it didn't work very well. At least I know for the future anyway, thanks for the fast reply

hmmm, i use dual monitors(Sony FW900 24" and a Viewsonice Ps790 19")
as long as the game stays the same resolution that i have my primary desktop set at i can keep proggies and stuff on the other desktop and keep an eye on stuff.
i run my primary monitor at 1920x1200 and the secondary at 1280x1024. if i play a game that isnt running at 1900x1200 then the desktop on the other monitor gets moved over basically to make up for the lack of resolution on the primary if that makes any sense.
but all i have to do is move my proggies over a little and then i can see them fine.

i dont use nview or anything but all i do is extend my desktop to my 2nd monitor in the display properties.

hope this helps.

btw, i have never had my 2nd monitor just go blank on me when playing games and i play a bunch of them. i dont have san andreas though.

sure.

im not positive, but im pretty sure the game HAS to support windowed mode in order to allow the game to run while you do other stuff on another monitor.