Use Powerbook G4 as external monitor and keyboard

Question

Level 1

4 points

Use Powerbook G4 as external monitor and keyboard

Is there a way I can somehow setup my Powerbook G4 (runninng OSX 10.4) to act as monitor and keyboard for a Mac Mini (Intel running 10.6)? Maybe I'm asking the wrong question. Here's what I need: On the Mac Mini, I'm running Dragon VR software. I'd like to be able to use that software on the Powerbook (which, of course, cannot run Dragon because it doesn't have an Intel processor). I'd even be happy with a cable solution, if need be. I just need to be able to work on the laptop about 5 or 6 feet away from where the Mac Mini must stay.

Posted on Jun 14, 2011 5:34 PM

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Answer 1

Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

Jun 14, 2011 5:35 PM in response to karl_kaboom

No. The display is an output only device.

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Answer 2

karl_kaboom Author

Level 1

4 points

Jun 14, 2011 5:37 PM in response to Kappy

What about a software option? I've heard mention of Synergy. Any hope there?

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Answer 3

Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

Jun 14, 2011 6:09 PM in response to karl_kaboom

Synergy is for sharing a mouse and keyboard.

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Answer 4

eww

Level 9

53,028 points

Jun 14, 2011 9:14 PM in response to karl_kaboom

There is no way you can control the Mini with the Powerbook's keyboard and have the Mini's video output displayed on the Powerbook.

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Answer 5

karl_kaboom Author

Level 1

4 points

Jun 15, 2011 9:29 AM in response to eww

Thanks. Another forum just suggested VNC would work. No? I'm a newbie. I don't want to go screwing up my computer. Looking for sound advice before I jump into anything. From another site: " VNC allows you to remotely send Keyboard and Mouse input across a network or the internet from one computer to another and even view exactly what is on the screen of the other computer. This allows you to control a computer like you were sitting in front of it from another room, another building, or even another country depending on the setup."

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Answer 6

cornelius

Level 6

17,826 points

Jun 15, 2011 11:33 AM in response to karl_kaboom

A possible solution would be to use a software such as Logmein (http://help.logmein.com/SelfServiceDownloads). The software will need to be installed on both computers, then you will be able to log into your mini from your PowerBook. There is a free version. It works pretty well.

😉 cornelius

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Answer 7

karl_kaboom Author

Level 1

4 points

Jun 15, 2011 12:33 PM in response to cornelius

Turns out VNC works perfectly. And Mac OSX has everything you need built right in. Why did 2 people tell me it was impossible? Do you understand that the issues posted here are important to people? I almost spent alot of time and money on a very expensive alternative. Very disheartening.

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Answer 8

cornelius

Level 6

17,826 points

Jun 15, 2011 7:15 PM in response to karl_kaboom

karl_kaboom wrote:

Turns out VNC works perfectly. And Mac OSX has everything you need built right in.

That's great. Glad it works for you.

Please do post back if you have further questions.

Good luck.

😉 cornelus

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