Macbook Air M2 to TV via HDMI Problem

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Macbook Air M2 to TV via HDMI Problem

Every time I try to connect my MB Air M2 to a Vizio TV via HDMI with Thunderbolt adapter, I get a wallpaper desktop that is labeled Desktop 2 when I hit F3 Expose view, but there is no active cursor on the MB Air and no picture on the TV. There is no way to change to Desktop 1 (or any other Desktop #) or input any keyboard strokes (other than Expose view) or mouse/trackpad actions . The MB Air just stays frozen until I disconnect the HDMI at which point it all returns to normal. Ideas? I've done the System Settings>Displays>Option Key>Detect Displays and it does nothing (and can't be accessed when the TV is actually connected).

MacBook Air (M2, 2022)

Posted on May 12, 2023 1:22 PM

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Answer 1

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Phil0124

Level 10

209,053 points

May 12, 2023 1:36 PM in response to GrumpyBD

That indicates the MacBook Air is set to extended mode, with its own screen as Desktop 2.

Which implies the TV is set to Desktop 1, and may be in full screen trying to play something.

Does the TV not show anything at all?

Does it show "no Signal"?.

If it doesn't it implies it is getting a signal but it's just black. It may be trying to play a video and is paused in a black screen.

Can you try moving the mouse around?

If you move your finger on the trackpad quickly several times from top right to bottom left, the cursor should enlarge and let you see it.

You can also try swiping left or right with 3 or 4 fingers to change the desktop space and see if it brings anything in to view.

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Answer 2

GrumpyBD Author

Level 1

8 points

May 13, 2023 10:00 AM in response to Phil0124

So, how do I get out of extended mode? Nothing on the TV. It says "No Signal." I tried moving the mouse/trackpad 10 ways from Sunday and nothing, including the multiple-finger swipes.

I should add: I have OS 13.3.1 (a)

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Macbook Air M2 to TV via HDMI Problem

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