Q: Display on monitor is not fully used. What to do?
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Jun 2, 2016 2:34 AMby K Shaffer,HelpfulYou may have to purchase a display adapter so to use another port in the computer.
Check the display to see if other signal-in options exist that may use another cable.
A newer model computer should be able to use a modern display with Thunderbolt
connections; some cables with adapter-ends for use with older displays may work
if the display can be used that way. Not all work even if an adapter may fit the shape.
• Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters: Frequently asked questions (FAQ) - Apple Support
While I have two Mac Mini computers, one is a Late 2005 and the other Late 2012;
both can use an adapter to HDMI so a 19-inch Samsung works for these at full res.
Mini-display port to HDMI should work; if not using Thunderbolt.
One of my displays uses one of these adapters:
Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter
Some models of display require drivers that would be obscure and not included with
OS X; I have another Samsung that rotates, it is supported but have to use a third-
party control panel app in both older OS X 10.5.8 and OS X 10.9.5. The in-OS X
controls for Brightness and resolution are limited without it.
{Given the newer Mac Mini looks better with a 20-inch Aluminum Cinema, that's what
it has; the older Mini does OK with an 19-inch (more square) Samsung, and it uses
a control software to adjust items the OS X cannot. Newest can use Thunderbolt.}
Not sure if your display is older of those, which may need a separate control software.
There was a firmware update for Mini Display Port to VGA Adapter (itself) :
About the Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter firmware update - Apple Support
If you do not see all the possible resolutions of the display in your Displays preference
it may be due to the lack of a preferred display adapter. Or an older display limits.
• How to Show All Possible Resolutions for a Display in Mac OS X:
http://osxdaily.com/2015/08/27/show-all-display-resolutions-external-screen-mac/
• About Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapters - Apple Support
You may have to research the display maker support site for technical specs if you do
not have a printed specification page with line-in info stated. Several different adapters
are available; you could even use a digital TV (within limits) as a display.
- Learn more about troubleshooting display related issues.
- Learn which adapters are compatible with specific Apple computers.
- Learn more about Thunderbolt ports and displays.
The adapter and display technologies need to more closely match those of the Mini.
An older tech display should be supported within limits. Drivers and connections.
PS: See if the firmware update for the adapter you have, will allow it to work.
If the adapter is an Apple product, it would be able to accept the firmware.
Good luck!
edited 3x
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Jun 2, 2016 2:21 AMby pramo05,Thanks for replying and that lot of info. I tried installing the Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter firmware update, but it seems it's not compatible with OS X El Capitan. I also tried all the possible resolutions following the instructions on the link you provided, It somehow made the display look better but still there are free black spaces on the left and right (but lesser than before). And I looked up on samsung's support site for my model, and it seems the driver software is available for Windows OS only.
So I tried on another older monitor of 17 inch. And it worked there though with lesser resolution.
Thanks anyway.
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Jun 2, 2016 3:59 AMby K Shaffer,Although I'm not certain how well it may work with your present display, and OS X in the Mini
you could trial use test this old standby to see if it can help better view & use the display...
The trial use period is stated in the maker's site; the shareware cost is 14 Euro afterward.
• SwitchResX - Versatile Tool for Controlling Screen Resolutions: (shareware)
http://www.madrau.com/index.html
• Information about SwitchResX on El Capitan 10.11: (note this requires an extra effort to use)
http://www.madrau.com/support/support/srx_1011.html
{This idea may be harder to implement under El Capitan due to the System Integrity Protection.
A command-line is required, to disable S.I.P. -- Note details in the second link above, to use this.}
Other general info & tips - not necessarily related to this issue - may be found here:
• Help/How-to Guides for Mac/OSX/iOS Users - everything from AirPlay to Thunderbolt info:
http://www.xlr8yourmac.com/tips/MacBasics_Guides.html
Previous versions of Mac OS X found custom options in display settings with SwitchResX.
It may or may not be worth acquiring a license for use beyond trial run; but it may surprise.
In any event...
Good luck & happy computing!
