User profile for user: GuinnJ
GuinnJ Author
User level: Level 1
0 points

Mini Display port works for HDMI but not VGA/DVI

Hello,


My name is Justin and I have a 2010 model Macbook pro that I purchased used in early 2015 (Model# A1286 - MacBook Pro 15-Inch, Mid 2010). I am having what seems to be a strange issue.


System Version: OS X 10.10.2


While using my Thunderbolt port I noticed that I can only get it to recognize an additional display if I am using an HDMI adapter, VGA/DVI renders zero results. I've confirmed that it is not an adapter issue by switching multiple adapters across multiple Mac's that work perfectly each time. However, plugging a known working VGA/DVI adapter to my Macbook comes up blank. Again, my HDMI adapter works great, but not VGA/DVI.


My Thunderbolt system report shows: "Thunderbolt: No hardware was found."


Is anyone familiar with a similar problem? Software/Hardware Related? I haven't research to see how exactly that port functions but I'd assume it's a single chip.


Any and all information is greatly appreciated.


-Justin

MacBook Pro, OS X Yosemite (10.10.2)

Posted on Sep 9, 2015 7:54 AM

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7 replies
User profile for user: Johnb-one
Johnb-one
User level: Level 6
9,180 points

Sep 9, 2015 9:48 AM in response to GuinnJ

I think it has to be active or Dual-Link (depending on the screen size you have) for dvi-D, maybe vga too??

the max resolution is 2560x1600 on the 2nd display. you may have to turn on mirroring in display preferences......just a guess

about the only other thing I could suggest is update your MacBook Pro to 10.10.5 and see if that solves your problem

John b

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User profile for user: Grant Bennet-Alder
Grant Bennet-Alder
User level: Level 10
141,451 points

Sep 9, 2015 10:06 AM in response to GuinnJ

Now look up what the system report says for Graphics & Displays and report that.


What Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter is in use?


What display are you attaching it to, and what is the display's maximum resolution?


have you made certain that the adapter is inserted into the Mini DisplayPort on the computer so that essentially ALL of the metal-end of the adapter is inside the jack? sometimes you have to push a bit.


Is this the MacBook Pro 6,2 model?

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User profile for user: GuinnJ
GuinnJ Author
User level: Level 1
0 points

Sep 9, 2015 10:45 AM in response to Grant Bennet-Alder

Grant,


Graphics/Display report reads as follow:

Intel HD Graphics:

Chipset Model: Intel HD Graphics

Type: GPU

Bus: Built-In

VRAM (Total): 288 MB

VRAM (Dynamic, Max): 10

Vendor: Intel (0x8086)

Device ID: 0x0046

Revision ID: 0x0018

gMux Version: 1.9.21


NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M:

Chipset Model: NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M

Type: GPU

Bus: PCIe

PCIe Lane Width: x16

VRAM (Total): 256 MB

Vendor: NVIDIA (0x10de)

Device ID: 0x0a29

Revision ID: 0x00a2

ROM Revision: 3560

gMux Version: 1.9.21


Displays:

Color LCD:

Display Type: LCD

Resolution: 1440 x 900

Pixel Depth: 32-Bit Color (ARGB8888)

Main Display: Yes

Mirror: Off

Online: Yes

Built-In: Yes


I've used everything from cheap knock-offs to apple certified adapters.


I have tried multiple displays. A 24" Dell LCD, a 47" Vizio LCD TV, a MacPro (Unsure on model number), and an Indigo GrassValley Production Switcher. I'm not sure what the max resolution is on all of these but I know that they work on other Macs and also work on mine using HDMI.


Yes, I have made certain that the adapters are plugged in all the way on both ends. Solid connection - if I push any harder it'll break!


Yes, this is the MacBook Pro 6,2 model

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Mini Display port works for HDMI but not VGA/DVI

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