merlinvdb
Level 1 (4 points)
Desktops

Q: Mac Pro 2013, multiple video outputs + HDMI

Dear fellow users,

 

I am using the 2013 Mac Pro connected to 2 x HD Acer monitors using DVI (and two DVI-to-MDP adapters). However using these passive adapters limits the macpro's outputs to two monitors only. Trying to connect an HDTV to the HDMI output of the mac fails, unless I disconnect one of the DVI monitors.

 

So currently I am looking to upgrade my monitor situation to 2 x QHD Dell Ultrasharp Monitors (UP2516D) which have a direct display and mini display port connection. By connecting these two monitors directly to the Thunderbolt bus, will this effectively free the use of the HDMI port? Allowing me to connect the HDTV as a 'third' monitor using the HDMI port?

 

I am running OS 10.10.5 on a 6-core machine with D700 graphics.

 

Kind regards,

Merlin

Posted on May 31, 2016 12:22 PM

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merlinvdb

Q: Mac Pro 2013, multiple video outputs + HDMI

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  • by Grant Bennet-Alder,

    Grant Bennet-Alder Grant Bennet-Alder May 31, 2016 12:28 PM in response to merlinvdb
    Level 9 (61,073 points)
    Desktops
    May 31, 2016 12:28 PM in response to merlinvdb

    Yes. Mini Displayport is "free" -- it does not count against your two "Legacy" displays total.

     

    You can also add one or more ACTIVE adapters (that contain signal re-Drivers) which are also "free" (cost about US$40 each).

     

    Mini DisplayPort uses push-pull drivers at MUCH lower signal levels.

     

    The first two "legacy" displays can be automatically pushed to near-"legacy" levels, but there is not enough power and they fade out beyond two.

  • by lllaass,

    lllaass lllaass May 31, 2016 12:32 PM in response to merlinvdb
    Level 10 (189,400 points)
    Desktops
    May 31, 2016 12:32 PM in response to merlinvdb

    You can only have two legacy connections (HDMI or DVI). For more than two additional ones have to use active adopters.

    You can get an active mini displayport>DVI adopter and then you can use one HDMI connection, one mini displayport>DVI non-active adopter and one mini displayport>DVI active adopter. An active adopter is less expensive than a direct mini displayport monitor.

    Connect each display to a different Thunderbolt bus

    http://www.startech.com/AV/Displayport-Converters/Mini-DisplayPort-to-DVI-Active -Adapter~MDP2DVIS

     

    2013 MP TB ports.png