iMac 2013 in Target Display mode for iMac

Question

iMac 2013 in Target Display mode for iMac

I have a 27" iMac late 2013 that I would like to use in Target Display mode to act as an external display for a 21.5" iMac 2017.

The late 2013 iMac uses Thunderbolt 1 and the 2017 iMac has Thunderbolt 3.

Will the simple all-in-one USB C to Mini DisplayPort Cable

cable available for around 15 bucks on Amazon work SOLELY for that purpose?

Or do I need to use Apple's Thunderbolt 3 to 2 adaptor along with a Thunderbolt 1/2 cable to make that work?

I tried to include a product link but it won't let me.

Thank you for anyone who knows.

iMac Line (2012 and Later)

Posted on Jul 28, 2020 3:12 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Malcolm J. Rayfield

Level 7

23,059 points

Jul 28, 2020 8:49 PM in response to DigitalDuderino

Mini DisplayPort won't work, even though the plugs ill fit.. You need the Thunderbolt 3 adapter and Thunderbolt cable.

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

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Answer 2

Jul 29, 2020 8:30 PM in response to Malcolm J. Rayfield

Thanks for the reply. It certainly does appear to be the case that what you stated is all correct.

I'm happy to report I've had success with the TB 3 to 2 adapter from Apple and a TB1 cable.

It was interesting to learn that you may have to be logged out on iMac that's being used as the target display or you can get a black screen on it when entering TD mode.

I appreciate the help.

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iMac 2013 in Target Display mode for iMac

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