Apple Users

CloudWatcher

(1,846 posts)

9. Mini display port

Tue Aug 11, 2020, 01:34 AM

Aug 2020

Before ordering any cables, read up and make sure it'll work. Here's a good article:

https://www.chriswrites.com/how-to-setup-your-old-imac-as-a-display-monitor/

You can use the 'About This Mac' menu item to see exactly which model of iMac you've got. 2009 and 2010 iMacs had "mini display port" connections and Thunderbolt showed up starting in 2011 models.

It's tough to figure out because Apple has used a bazillion different video cables over the years, but start with figuring out exactly what models of iMac/Mac you've got and lookup the display connector types.

I'm guessing you just need a mini-display port cable, unlikely to find it retail but easy enough on the web. Good luck!

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13 replies

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An old desktop MAC--how can I make use of it? [View all] Lulu KC Aug 2020 OP

Photoshop NCjack Aug 2020 #1

not a mac guy but.... getagrip_already Aug 2020 #2

ok, you got me curious so I looked briefly.... getagrip_already Aug 2020 #3

Use it as a music server over your wifi. LuvLoogie Aug 2020 #4

That's funny. I use my old iPod from 2003 PinkTiger Aug 2020 #8

What are the models and operating systems of both macs. Tetrachloride Aug 2020 #5

Well, if you have any doors that need propping open... SledDriver Aug 2020 #6

you should have an HDMI port on the old machine... dhill926 Aug 2020 #7

Mini display port CloudWatcher Aug 2020 #9

Thank you all! Lulu KC Aug 2020 #10

I don't know about using it as strictly a monitor, but if it's a Mid-2010 i5 iMac then you can Elwood P Dowd Aug 2020 #11

If you're willing to risk breaking it, there are many options. CloudWatcher Aug 2020 #12

Mini-DVI to HDMI cable SmartVoter22 Oct 2020 #13