How to connect an older 23" Cinema Display to a 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display

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How to connect an older 23" Cinema Display to a 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display

I have an older 23" Cinema HD Display, Part Number M9178LL/A, and would like to connect it to a recent 2104 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display.

The Cinema Display has a power adapter and 3 connectors, a USB, Firewire, and a DVI (think that's what it's called).

The MacBook Pro has USB, Thunderbolt, and HDMI ports. I have a Thunderbolt to Firewire adapter, but I'm not sure what I need to connect the DVI OR if it will work.

I also recall that years ago Apple sold 'docks', so that you could use your laptop with a standard monitor and keyboard. Is that still the case?

Can anyone assist??

THANKS SO MUCH.

MacBook Pro with Retina display, OS X Mavericks (10.9.2)

Posted on Jan 27, 2016 7:28 PM

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Answer 1

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Niel

Level 10

726,869 points

Jan 27, 2016 7:32 PM in response to Sandie Cohen

You adapt the monitor’s DVI connection to the computer’s Thunderbolt(use a Mini DisplayPort adapter) or HDMI port. The USB and FireWire connections are only needed if you’ll be using the display as a hub.

(138898)

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Answer 2

Sandie Cohen Author

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Jan 27, 2016 7:45 PM in response to Niel

So....to be clear.....I need either:

1. DVI (Mini Display Port Adapter) to Thunderbolt

OR

2. DVI (Mini Display Port Adapter) to HDMI

Is that correct? If so, any chance you could include the links to the Apple adapters so I don't make an error?

Much appreciated.

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Answer 3

Niel

Level 10

726,869 points

Jan 27, 2016 8:52 PM in response to Sandie Cohen

Click here and here for them.

(138902)

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Answer 4

Sandie Cohen Author

Level 1

20 points

Jan 27, 2016 8:55 PM in response to Niel

Super! Thanks again for your help and direction in solving this issue.....

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Answer 5

Sandie Cohen Author

Level 1

20 points

Feb 1, 2016 9:54 AM in response to Niel

One more question, please!

I bought both adapters. I plugged the DisplayPort to DVI adapter into the Thunderbolt port and it seems to work fine. Ditto the other adapter to HDMI. I can return one of these. Which one is the better one or does it not matter?

I was a bit concerned about the DisplayPort to DVI adapter, as the marking on the adapter is a box with 2 lines, one on either side, and Thunderbolt has a lightning logo.

Thoughts and recommendations would be most appreciated!

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