How to buy a computer that supports multiple monitors?

When shopping for a new desktop computer, I'd like to get one that allows me to use two monitors. Is that something that most current-generation video cards can do (in late 2012), or do I need to search for a specific graphics card, or specific attributes for a card?

I've Googled the question but most answers talk about how to figure out if a computer that you already have can support dual monitors (generally, by plugging two monitors and seeing if they both work). Is there some key terminology that I'm missing in my searches?

if you're buying a desktop computer check the graphic card: if it's integrated it (usually) doesn't support multimonitor configurations.

if it has a separate graphic card check the model of the card; then look at the card specifications (note that "nvidia gt630" isn't enough.. producers use that chipset on different boards!!!). however.. nowadays only really cheap cards has only one monitor connector! with 50$ you can buy a "decent" card (if you don't play games with your pc!)

if you're buying a laptop: usually they have one dvi/vga connector for the 2nd monitor and the integrated monitor..

Two monitors is simple for modern computers to accomplish. If you want more than two you will need to make sure you get a graphics card strong enough to support it, as well as the proper connectors.

For two monitors though, Just make sure that it includes the necessary ports. Most bargain PCs only provide one Video out port. If this is the case you will need to purchase either an internal graphics card with the needed ports, or buy a USB->Video converter (cheaper, but not as nice of a picture.)

For laptops, look into docking stations. These almost always provide at least two video ports for the purpose of multiple monitors.

In this day & age, if the card has multiple outputs, it can support multiple monitors. ATI/AMD cards can drive up to 6 outputs independently, while nVidia cards can drive 2 independent outputs (or 3 joined outputs + 1 independent output - see "nVidia 3D surround" for info. These limits are per-card if the system has multiple graphics cards acting independently, or per-cardgroup if you're working with SLI). Intel's integrated graphics (GMA, or the newer graphics that come with sandy bridge and ivy bridge processors) can drive at least 2 monitors.

On a laptop, if the system has an external connector for the monitor, it can drive the internal display + an external monitor. Driving multiple external monitors, or with a docking station makes things more tricky and vendor-specific.

Pretty much any system or graphics card you buy new today will support at least 2 displays as long as you have a place to actually hook up the second display.