Can I attach an external monitor to my iMac G5 (ALS) if the video card is dead?

Question

Can I attach an external monitor to my iMac G5 (ALS) if the video card is dead?

I don't know for a fact that the video card is dead, but the screen on my iMac (PPC/ALS) 20" gradually started flaking out over several months and is now dead. Computer boots up fine and I'm looking at it through target mode right now. I want to keep using the computer if I can, so I am wondering if I can attach an external monitor through the DVI slot even if the video card is kaput. I'd like to get an opinion or two on this before I buy a used monitor and cable. Thanks!

Posted on Nov 24, 2012 11:38 AM

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Answer 1

Nov 25, 2012 10:09 AM in response to Craig Williams

My mistake: It isn't a DVI slot but a mini-VGA slot, not that it makes any difference as far as the original question goes. I'm beginning to suspect that a failed video card is going to keep me from using an external monitor. Can anyone confirm this for me?

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Answer 2

Allan Jones

Level 9

79,718 points

Nov 25, 2012 11:31 AM in response to Craig Williams

You have found the answer. If the video chipset is OK but there is a fault in the internal display or its cabing, an external monitor will work. However, if the video chipset--which is farther "upstream" in the system--goes bad, the option of an external monitor is off the table.

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