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How do get my 2020 MacBookAir to mirror display to TV with a cable?

I own a good TV, good HDMI cable, and HDMI to USB-C adapter.

I have a 2020 MacBook Air -- how do I mirror my display to my TV?


It was easy with my 2011 MacBookAir. Why is it so hard with this new Apple product?

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.2

Posted on Feb 27, 2021 5:17 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 5, 2021 2:42 PM

So, I fixed it.

In System Preferences Display, it automatically set itself to Optimize for D39h-D0.

Then I had to select Scaled 1280 x 720, and set the Refresh Rate to 50 Hertz instead of 60 Hertz in the D39h-D0 window of the System Preferences.

Now I have a good picture on my TV and can watch the Beastie Boys documentary.

5 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 5, 2021 2:42 PM in response to Joel Patterson

So, I fixed it.

In System Preferences Display, it automatically set itself to Optimize for D39h-D0.

Then I had to select Scaled 1280 x 720, and set the Refresh Rate to 50 Hertz instead of 60 Hertz in the D39h-D0 window of the System Preferences.

Now I have a good picture on my TV and can watch the Beastie Boys documentary.

Mar 1, 2021 4:28 PM in response to Joel Patterson

Hello, Joel.


Thank you for posting in Apple Support Communities. It sounds like you’re trying to connect your TV to your new MacBook Air with the Apple M1 Chip, and you’re using the HDMI > USB-C adapter that you used with your previous MacBook Air without success. If we’re on the same page, we think this article may assist:


Use an external display with your MacBook Air - Apple Support


According to this, you’ll need a USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter to allow a connection from the HDMI port on the display to the Thunderbolt/USB 4 port on your MacBook Air. This is the setup you will need.


MacBook Air Thunderbolt port — USB-C end of adapter / HDMI port on adapter — HDMI cable — HDMI port on your TV


These articles may also help:


Use external monitors with your Mac - Apple Support

Get help with video issues on external displays connected to your Mac - Apple Support


Warmest Regards.

How do get my 2020 MacBookAir to mirror display to TV with a cable?

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