Target Display Mode doesn't work (Mini DisplayPort vs. Thunderbolt)

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Level 1

8 points

Target Display Mode doesn't work (Mini DisplayPort vs. Thunderbolt)

Hi guys! I own 2 iMacs: a mid-2011 and a late-2012. Although both support Target Display Mode, I can't seem to make it work...

I'm using a generic Mini Displayport cable (not Thunderbolt). Could this be the problem? Not only Cmnd+F2 doesn't work, but also I don't see the "Arrangement" tab on System Preferences / Display. Any thoughts on what I might be doing wrong? Thanks!

iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.13

Posted on Jun 1, 2020 11:44 AM

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Answer 1

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BDAqua

Level 10

240,269 points

Jun 2, 2020 1:46 PM in response to Dunhader

I'm using a generic Mini Displayport cable (not Thunderbolt). Could this be the problem?

Yes, 27-inch iMac models introduced in 2009 and 2010: Use a Mini DisplayPort cable to connect your iMac to a Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 port on the other Mac.
All iMac models introduced in 2011, 2012, 2013, and mid 2014: Use a Thunderbolt cable to connect your iMac to a Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 port on the other Mac. If the other Mac uses Thunderbolt 3, you can use the Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter with your cable.

Target display mode requires macOS High Sierra or earlier on the iMac used as the external display. It does not work with macOS Mojave or later.

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Answer 2

Jun 2, 2020 12:24 PM in response to Dunhader

Use your iMac as a display with target display mode - Apple Support

You have to use a Thunderbolt cable for iMacs newer than 2010.

Apple Thunderbolt Cable (2.0 m) - White - Apple

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Answer 3

Dunhader Author

Level 1

8 points

Jun 3, 2020 4:44 PM in response to Malcolm J. Rayfield

Thanks!

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