Apple Monitor Model Number A1081 - Ok For HD?

Thanx for everyone's help here. No thank you I don't need to call the local cable company. In my neighborhood they are total freakin morons. I've comprehended the basics here.

Let's cut to the quick as a possible layout; As discussed here, it's almost pointless to replace my current 20" monitor with another Apple Display. Perhaps I'll pick up another 23", or 30" Apple Display (as a playback monitor), and go with the Black Magic; http://www.blackmagic-design.com/products/hdlink/

Why the Black Magic HDLink Pro DVI? First off it's a bit more affordable, and with this set up, it would appear I don't need to replace my current Video Card, since it already has dual DVI outputs.

One Apple display, (via DVI) will show the FC control windows. The other, (via DVI in, then out of Black Magic Box to Monitor), will display broadcast quality media.

Sound like a plan?

Thanx for all the help - it's perfectly clear now

Mike

Hi David

I'm really sorry if I passed over you for credit. Yes you were directly 'to the point'. As you indicated yourself sometimes folks here get 'way too technical' when all that's required is a simple statement or acknowledgement.

I realize 'the written word' alone may leave some confusion. In general, all I needed was the following; Using FCP to edit in a more professional environment, it's recommended to have an additional monitor with at least 1920x1080 for HD, (or broadcast quality), with the use of an inline device, or video card to provide color correction for the playback monitor. You provided those links, and I thank you so much.

Everyone has different levels of understanding - "Patience is a Virtue". Yes it can be a pretty tough crowd here.

Happy Holidays to all!
Mike
http://www.vimeo.com/7340608

Here's a very good tutorial by 'Martin', and 'Meg The Dog' on how to hook up a 2nd monitor. (sorry I didn't see it before); http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=10428656&#10428656

And here's a very good tutorial by Shane Ross regarding the Matrox MSO (as pointed out on this thread); http://magazine.creativecow.net/article/matrox-mxo-broadcast-monitoring-on-a-des ktop-monitor

In summation; from what I've read, and drawing my own conclusions; If you're like me, still using a G5 Desktop with a decent Dual DVI Video Card, and don't have the money for a Mac Pro, used up your only PCIx slot, and can't afford a work fix (Via SDI), with Black Magic, The Matrox, (although just under $1000), is the best way to go. The Matrox does not require replacement of your video card, assuming you have Dual DVI Outputs.

And of course assuming you have another Apple Display, or monitor. I'm gonna pick up a used 23" Apple Display for Playback and use it with my current 20" Apple Display for FC Control Windows.

Mike