MacBook Aluminum problem with Samsung SyncMaster 2333 23" external display

hmmm... I have the same monitor and I'm running a macbook pro with the setup. What I realized about external monitors with the mac is that when you plug it into an external monitor source, the best way for the transfer of the screen to the external is to simply power on the laptop and shut the laptop screen as soon as possible. So basically, open up the laptop, power it on, and then close the laptop asap. It should recognize the external monitor as the main screen and run on it. Also, just to note, if you're laptop isn't charging (plugged in to the wallsocket), it won't transfer the screen over, but will go straight to power save mode, therefore, won't show up on the main screen. It'll just put the laptop to sleep if you turn it on and shut the laptop. If you want the external monitor to be operating even when the laptop isn't plugged in, you'll have to change your power safe settings beforehand from the drop down menu. Hope this helps you out.