MBP Retina to Dell 30" Display - What do I need

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MBP Retina to Dell 30" Display - What do I need

Both the 2.3 and 2.6 MBP Retinas work as expected and beautifully well driving a 27" Dell 1920 x 1200 External Display (Picture: http://www.pbase.com/dwever/image/144418131). To do this I simply run the Mini Display Port to DVI Adapter.

Now, I want to use the Dell 30" Monitor (2560 x 1600), but before I drop the $1,300, am I correct that I will need a more involved set up and adapter such as the mini display port to dual link dvi adapter (http://store.apple.com/us/product/MB571Z/A?fnode=51)? Is this a for sure solution? The reviews of that adapter at store.apple.com don't paint a clear picture, for example this one's by, Hugh R from Cooperstown, Jul 19, 2012:

"Before I bought my new MBP-Retina I was assured by both Apple Tech Support and the retailer that I could connect my cherished 30" Apple Cinema Display via the Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter. Not so. Unable to detect the display through system preferences. It just doesn't work."

Thanks!

MacBook Pro with Retina display, Mac OS X (10.7.4), MBP Retina 2.6

Posted on Jul 24, 2012 10:35 AM

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Answer 1

Jul 30, 2012 1:02 PM in response to GTCA

Hey GTCA,

I have just done exactly this, well the Dell 30" Monitor part. I have a WFP3007.

I can confirm that you do indeed need the Mini Display Port to Dual Link DVI Adapter, it works.

HOWEVER, when you plug it in and go to your system settings and look at the displays, you click "scaled" and by default you are given some rather unimpressive resolutions. Worry not! Click back on "Best for Display" then re-click Scaled but hold down the Option button whilst you do so. Bingo! You should have 2560x1600 as an option. You should be able to use the dual link adapter to power the 27" Monitor also at full resolution.

Its beautiful. I hope this helps.

Simon

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