Q: Problem with "Extended Desktop", built-in screen is disabled
Hi All,
I have a MacBook Pro 13-inch Early 2011 with OSX El Capitan 10.11.4.
Right before i upgraded to 10.11.4, i use to be able to work with "extended desktop" using both the external monitor and the built-in screen. Since the update, every time i connect the external monitor it automatically switches to the external monitor and disables completely the built-in screen. Sometimes, removing the HDMI cable (with adapter to mini port), putting the MacBook to sleep, connecting again and awakening the Mac, turns both screens on again, but most times it just switches back to the external screen only. This is becoming really annoying.
While using the external monitor the display preferences only shows that monitor's options and my arrangement tab is missing (as the built-in screen is disabled temporarily). Clicking on "Detect Displays" (after pressing option to show it) does not change anything. Using the brightness keys to enable/disable mirroring does not work either.
Is there anyway i can set it up so it defaults to "extended desktop" with built-in monitor on and external screen?
Any help will be appreciated.
Thanks,
MacBook Pro, OS X El Capitan (10.11.4)
Posted on Apr 9, 2016 1:20 AM
Community Specialists
Hi there Ajgalvezm,
it sounds like your computer isn't working correctly with your external monitor since you updated to 10.11.4. I would use these steps from the following article to help you troubleshoot that:
Get help with video issues on external displays connected to your Mac
restart your Mac in safe mode to reset the display resolution to defaults.
If starting in safe mode doesn't resolve the issue, reset your Mac's NVRAM and SMC to reset the video ports on your Mac to their defaults.
Thank you for using Apple Support Communities.
Posted on Apr 11, 2016 2:33 AM
