How do I use a MacBook with a Thunderbolt Display?

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Level 1

22 points

How do I use a MacBook with a Thunderbolt Display?

I have a new Thunderbolt Display which I use with a new Mac Mini. If possible, I would like to attach my 2008 era MacBook to the Thunderbolt Display to take advantage of the bigger screen. I understand that MacBook doesn't have Thunderbolt and the Thunderbolt Display requires it, but...isn't there maybe, just maybe, some sort of Thunderbolt to USB2 cable or something that might make this work?

Help me, Obi-won, you are my only hope.

MacBook, Mac OS X (10.5.6)

Posted on Apr 1, 2015 3:00 PM

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Answer 1

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Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

Apr 1, 2015 4:07 PM in response to Andvari

There are Thunderbolt adapters you can use for the type of video port on your MB:

Display	1 - Mini-DVI (VGA, Composite and S-video with adapter)

But you may need to upgrade its OS X version at least to Snow Leopard.

Upgrading to Snow Leopard

You can purchase Snow Leopard through the Apple Store: Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard - Apple Store (U.S.). The price is $19.99 plus tax. You will be sent physical media by mail after placing your order.

After you install Snow Leopard you will have to download and install the Mac OS X 10.6.8 Update Combo v1.1 to update Snow Leopard to 10.6.8 and give you access to the App Store. Access to the App Store enables you to download Mavericks if your computer meets the requirements.

Snow Leopard General Requirements

1. Mac computer with an Intel processor

2. 1GB of memory

3. 5GB of available disk space

4. DVD drive for installation

5. Some features require a compatible Internet service provider;

fees may apply.

6. Some features require Apple’s iCloud services; fees and

terms apply.

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