Change default monitor screen in GRUB 2

Question

Recently my notebook screen died and I started using an external VGA monitor. When my computer boots the monitor is off until GRUB 2 starts the OS. Is it possible to make GRUB 2 display its menu in the external monitor?

Solution

This should work if you have access to BIOS:

There is usually a configuration option in BIOS to select default output device on bootup. You should be able to select your external VGA port instead of your laptop's display (port).

Comments

[Peter Rabbit]

@Giorgio, I couldn't find a solution, sorry.

[Giorgio]

Another problem I have is that I cannot install a new OS: e.g. the Debian installation disk also starts on the laptop screen and so I am stuck with the operating systems that are already installed (which were installed before the screen broke). If I find a solution I will post it.

[Peter Rabbit]

@Giorgio, try using a live CD in another computer and to memorize the keystrokes to get to the desktop environment. Then, attach your notebook to an external monitor and repeat the keystrokes.

[Peter Rabbit]

I still have access to the BIOS configuration but as my notebook screen is dead I won't be able to see the BIOS options.

[AMR]

Not all notebooks have this option. Most consumer machines don't.

[phoops]

"Most consumer machines don't" sounds very opinionated. It is supported by Intel HD chips at least.

[Fopedush]

My bios, for one, does not have that option. Can we get an answer for how to change the monitor GRUB chooses in software?