I tried to run my MacBook Pro in clamshell model with a Samsung 4K monitor connected, but unless the computer is plugged into the power adapter, the machine will not display a picture on the monitor. When I open the clamshell, the monitor will come on, but once I close it back or unplug the computer from power, the battery is not enough to run the display.
is this normal, or do I have a defective machine?
MacBook
yes, as it turns out, I had to wait on hold for 2.5 hours with Apple Support to finally understand that these newer MacBooks work differently than the older ones and you cannot use an external monitor while the clamshell is closed unless you are connected to power.
Darth Skywalker:
“16" MacBook Pro can't drive external monitor unless MacBook is plugged into power. [...]is this normal, or do I have a defective machine?”
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Is Closed Display Mode Enabled?:
Use your Mac Notebook In Closed-Display Mode with an External Display
To use an external display with your Mac notebook while its built-in display is closed, use Closed-Display Mode.
Wow! 2.5 hours? Quite a wait!
Ask here next time — You’d probably get a quick-answer just like today.
16" MacBook Pro can't drive external monitor unless MacBook is plugged into power.
