kimac: iMac Display & VGA Out

This FAQ attempts to answer questions about the iMac displays and VGA port.

Can I use my iMac as a display for another computer?
No, the VGA port, present on most slot loading iMacs, is not for signal input. It is for mirroring onto an external monitor only. This means that your older iMac cannot be used as a monitor for your new Mac Mini or G5, etc.

Can I mirror my desktop or extend my desktop onto another display? Do I need an adapter?
iMacs with a built-in VGA port can mirror their desktop onto an external monitor, but cannot extend the desktop. This means, the same image will be displayed on both the iMac monitor, and the external monitor, at the same sizes and refresh rates. See the Apple Knowledge Base article Connecting an external monitor to your iMac's VGA monitor port. Video mirroring is not supported by the revision A - D (tray loading) iMacs.

Can I watch TV or use other devices on my iMac?
You can watch TV or use other devices, such as VCRs or video games, on the iMac with third party products, such as those by Eskape Labs.

Can I use an ADC or DVI display, such as Apple's LCDs?
You may be able to connect an ADC display on iMacs with the VGA output port, with some third party hardware, such as the Dr. Bott LLC VGAtor. Please note, this may not work, and is not supported by Apple, and may not be supported by the third party manufacturer. The iMac video card may not be able to run the displays at higher resolutions, if at all. DVI displays cannot be adapted to run on an iMac.

If you are not sure what type of iMac you have, refer to the following Apple Knowledge Base article: iMac CRT: How to differentiate between models.

Updated 4/24/05