External monitor doesn't work with lid closed - 2011 MacBook Pro

The external monitor works just fine with the lid open but if I close it the monitor goes off.

I've read up on this... Pressing a key on my Bluetooth keyboard or clicking my USB mouse doesn't do anything useful, I tried caffeinate, doesn't help. Nada, monitor goes off, stays off.

Any ideas?? This shouldn't be complicated...

Posted on Apr 13, 2019 7:59 AM

Top-ranking reply

BobTheFisherman

Level 10

84,907 points

Posted on Apr 13, 2019 8:06 AM

Use your Mac notebook computer in closed-display mode with an external display - Apple Support

View in context

Similar questions

2 replies

Top-ranking reply

BobTheFisherman

Level 10

84,907 points

Apr 13, 2019 8:06 AM in response to Mr. Fazookus

Use your Mac notebook computer in closed-display mode with an external display - Apple Support

Mr. Fazookus Author

Level 1

54 points

Apr 13, 2019 9:00 AM in response to Mr. Fazookus

And, now it does (!?!?!?!).

My best guess is that this time I pressed the 'search' function on my keyboard instead of a random key...

Oy.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

External monitor doesn't work with lid closed - 2011 MacBook Pro

Welcome to Apple Support Community

A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.

Learn more Sign up