Problems using iMac 2009 as external monitor for macbook air 2017

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Problems using iMac 2009 as external monitor for macbook air 2017

I want to use my old iMac (2009) as a monitor for my MacBook air 2017. From what it looks like online (See link below) I need a Mini Display Port to Mini Display Port cable, and I did buy one online before finding out that it is not compatible with target display mode. Does anyone know where I could find one of these cables that is compatible with target display mode? I did try on the apple store but they don't sell them.

Any help would be appreciated

https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT204592- This is the link that says i need a Mini Display Port to Mini Display Port cable

MacBook Air

Posted on Aug 13, 2019 9:03 AM

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Answer 1

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den.thed

Level 10

82,594 points

Aug 13, 2019 4:25 PM in response to Snack80

Ah... yes. Sorry I see that now, way down the page.

Check at B&H Photo, they say that they have one that is TDM compatible.

see > https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1213981-REG/newertech_nwtcblmdmm06_mini_displayport_male_to.html?ap=y&smp=y

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Answer 2

den.thed

Level 10

82,594 points

Aug 13, 2019 9:18 AM in response to Snack80

First thing to keep in mind, is that only a Late 2009 27" iMac supports TDM.

(the Early 2009 and the Late 2009 21.5" iMac models, do not support TDM)

If you have the a Late 2009 27" iMac, then try one of the following mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cables.

https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Mini-DisplayPort-Black/dp/B00HNF0L2C

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Answer 3

Snack80 Author

Level 1

8 points

Aug 13, 2019 2:35 PM in response to den.thed

Thanks for the response, and the iMac is late 2009 and 27 inch so that is good.

Unfortunately I did end up buying that that cable and it is not compatible with Target Display Mode it says so in the product description on amazon. I think maybe because the MiniDisplay port is so old they don't really sell them anymore.

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