Q: I have a 17 in macbook pro, and I would like to determine if it is a late model 2010 or an early 2011, or possibly later.  What is the best most definitive way to determine this.

apple logo - top right - about this mac - more info....that will tell you what your macbook really is..

AirPlay

AirPlay Mirroring requires a second-generation Apple TV or later, and is supported on the following Mac models: iMac (Mid 2011 or newer), Mac mini (Mid 2011 or newer), MacBook Air (Mid 2011 or newer), and MacBook Pro (Early 2011 or newer).

Several Apple Articles Regarding AirPlay

Apple TV (2nd and 3rd gen)- How to use AirPlay Mirroring

How to set up and configure AirPort Express for AirPlay and iTunes

Troubleshooting AirPlay and AirPlay Mirroring

Using AirPlay

Apple - OS X Mountain Lion - Read the technical specifications.

AirPlay mirroring will likely not work - all of the MBP 2011 models came with a Thunderbolt port. You can check what model number you have by going under the Apple menu to About This Mac, More Info..., System Report... and look at Hardware Overview for the Model Identifier. Check that and report back - but I don't think it's a 2011 model and thus won't support AirPlay mirroring.

Clinton

I'm always a fan of advocating Mactracker. This bad *** little app will tell you exactly what your system is and gives you an ungodly amount of information about all products that Apple is making.

Here's a screenshot:

MacTracker is my 'go to' app in answering some of the questions posted here - what OS was the machine original shipped with, etc.

Love it.

Clinton