Running headless

Is anyone else experimenting with running the LP headless using access via RDP or VNC? I found VNC easier to set up - issues with RDP server services I tried - but I don't think this question is protocol-related. I am looking for a way to configure the virtual display independently of the physical. Thus far I have needed to attach the 7" display to boot; or to use my 15" USB display with the O/S configured only to display that screen. In either case, I am unable to configure the virtual display above the resolution of whichever physical is displayed. Ideally I would like to boot with no monitor at all, treating the LP as a server. Experience with that has been unreliable. Any input, ideas, suggestions?