Using IMAC as a larger screen with my Windows laptop

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Level 1

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Using IMAC as a larger screen with my Windows laptop

I have a personal iMac (intel based) but also have to use a Windows based laptop for work purposes. I would like to be able to use the iMac as an external monitor for the laptop (save me cluttering up my desk).

Is this possible, and of so how do I do it (and what extra kit will I need)

iMac, Mac OS X (10.6.1)

Posted on Sep 21, 2009 11:48 AM

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Answer 1

kmac1036

Level 4

2,370 points

Sep 21, 2009 12:02 PM in response to GBeharrell

really the only way to do this is using a VNC client, but beings this is a "work" machine, I'm guessing you would be met with resistance by your IT staff.

VNC wouldn't be optimal, with the lag & compression makes it only for simple management stuff or maybe simple word / spreadsheet processing. not really worth it to me for that when that could be done on the Mac 🙂

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Answer 2

GBeharrell Author

Level 1

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Sep 21, 2009 12:12 PM in response to kmac1036

Main uses would be use of a specific database, only installed on the laptop and Email / Outlook management as well as the usual work processing stuff.

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Answer 3

Sep 21, 2009 5:54 PM in response to GBeharrell

There is no video in on the iMac. You cannot plug in a cable from the laptop to the iMac and use it as an external monitor.

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Answer 4

rkaufmann87

Level 10

140,532 points

Sep 21, 2009 7:32 PM in response to GBeharrell

You can use Microsoft's Remote Desktop Connection application. I have an identical situation as yours and use mine for some work things that have to run on Windows using XP Professional. While all I do is online database work it seems to run pretty well. Here is the link for it:

http://www.microsoft.com/mac/products/remote-desktop/default.mspx

Regards,

Roger

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