I use screen sharing a lot and want to be able to use it with a "headless" server (no monitor attached). I've notice with two separate "headless" macs that the screen sharing has major problems with the icon jumping and it really doesn't work. Is there a way to trick the mac with no monitor into thinking it has one? Is there some work-a-round?
I have a late 2012 Mini that I use exclusively "headless." The only issue I had was getting it to use the correct res/screen size when I first set it up. I had to use a monitor just the first time.
Since it is connected via ethernet 100Mb, I do experience some hysteresis (lagging) when I move things around - is that what you mean?
I've gotten used to it. I use the Mac for a Filemaker pro workstation, and for my taxes, etc.
I've noticed that having the Dock to auto-hide isn't a good idea for a headless Mac. Because when you point the mouse to the Dock, the Mac that you are on tends to show it's own Dock. That is if you have the Docks on the Macs in the same area.
As for the different res, I haven't tested this but I assume it'll work. Once you get all the settings enabled for Screen Sharing. Turn the headless Mac off, detect the monitor (head). Then turn it back on, at that point it won't detect a monitor. Thus when you do a screen share it should be the same size as the monitor that you are using. That is when in full screen mode.
KOT
My Macs run fine headless with screen-sharing on the local network.
In IT always have two ways to connect to headless systems, I recommend Installing Teamviewer and turning off/on Remote Management in System Preferences.
I have an extra dongle so I'll try the dummy dongle. I will tell you that I've had this experience with two macs, not just the one, and the jerkiness of the icon makes it unusable. Don't know why it's so, just telling you that's absolutely my experience. At home - at work - two different networks, two different headless macs.
Use a dummy VGA monitor as described in this blog:
I use a headless Mac mini via Screen Sharing. I do not have any issues. Similar to greg sahli, I did need to attach a monitor for initial setup, but after that it runs without a monitor.
Screen Sharing with "headless" macs
