How do you setup second monitor to macbook pro 15'

I am trying to set up an additional monitor to my laptop (MacBook Pro 15-inch Mid 2010) so I can have two monitors for editing. I got the DVI to HDMI cable and a HDMI to miniDisplay Port adapter for the monitor (ViewSonic VX922). When I turn on the monitor it is says no signal then goes into sleep mode. I have gone to System preferences>Displays on my laptop and it shows that it is connected to the monitor. How do I get the other monitor to pick up the signal? Could it be that the monitor is not Mac compatible?