Apple Mini Displayport Adapters: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Languages Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters: Frequently asked questions (FAQ) Find answers here to frequently asked questions about using an Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter, Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter, or Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter to connect your Mac to an external display.

About the Apple Mini DisplayPort and high-definition content:

1. What is a Mini DisplayPort? 2. Does my computer have a Mini DisplayPort connector? 3. My computer has the same connector but the symbol is different, what does that mean? 4. What are the system requirements for Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters? 5. Which Mini DisplayPort adapters are available from Apple? 6. Can other adapters be connected or "daisy-chained" to Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters? 7. What about HDMI? 8. What is HDCP? 9. Does my Apple Mini DisplayPort adapter support HDCP? 10. What is the difference between active and passive adapters? 11. Should I use a passive or active adapter? 12. Can I output via Mini DisplayPort to an RCA or S-Video connection?

About the Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter:

13. How is the Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter different from the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3382[11/17/13, 5:40:34 PM] Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

adapter? 14. Which displays should I use with the Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter? 15. What can I do if my external display is not working properly when I use it with a Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter?

About the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter:

16. Why doesn't the DVI connector for my external display fit my Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter?

About the Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter:

17. What should I do if I have flickering or compatibility issues with my Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter? 18. What is the maximum resolution available when using the Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter?

1. What is a Mini DisplayPort?

A Mini DisplayPort delivers a pure digital connection to external displays. It gives you plug-and-play performance with the Apple LED Cinema Display and works with single-link DVI, dual-link DVI, and VGA displays with the appropriate adapters.

2. Does my computer have a Mini DisplayPort?

The Mini DisplayPort looks like this:

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An Apple computer with a Mini DisplayPort will have this symbol next to the Mini DisplayPort:

On Apple portables, iMac, and Mac mini computers the Mini DisplayPort is located with the other ports and connectors. For the Mac Pro, the Mini DisplayPort is on the graphics card. Refer to the manual for your Mac for specific details about the location of ports and connectors on your computer.

3. My computer has the same connector but the symbol is different, what does that mean?

Some Apple computer have a Thunderbolt port instead of a Mini DisplayPort. Computers with a Thunderbolt port will have the following symbol next a port although the port physically appears the same as a Mini DisplayPort:

Thunderbolt ports:

Are compatible with all of the Mini DisplayPort adapters referenced below in question 5 and with Apple Mini DisplayPort equipped displays. Support adapters like Apple's Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter and Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter which are not otherwise compatible with Mini DisplayPorts.

See Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ) for more information on Thunderbolt.

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3382[11/17/13, 5:40:34 PM] Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

4. What are the system requirements for Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters?

Your computer needs Mac OS X v10.5.6 or later and a Mini DisplayPort to use these adapters. Note: When you use the Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter, your Mac should also have a free USB port.

5. Which Mini DisplayPort adapters are available from Apple?

Adapter For use with these displays

Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-link DVI displays with resolutions Dual-Link DVI above 1920 x 1200 Adapter

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Apple Mini Displays that do not support Dual-link DisplayPort to DVI DVI resolutions (DVI displays with a adapter resolution of 1920 x 1200 or lower)

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Apple Mini

DisplayPort to VGA Displays that connect via VGA adapter

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6. Can other video adapters be connected or "daisy-chained" to Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters?

No, you should not connect Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters to any other video adapters. Connect your computer directly to an external display via one Mini DisplayPort adapter.

7. What about HDMI?

Apple does not manufacture a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter. For more information on Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapters, see this article.

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3382[11/17/13, 5:40:34 PM] Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

8. What is HDCP? HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) is a form of digital copy protection that requires compatibility between a source—such as your computer and video adapter if present—and a receiver, such as a high-definition television. If any of these devices or cabling do not support HDCP, your content may not play, may present a warning message, or may play back at a lower resolution than expected. An example of content that supports HDCP is an HD movie on the iTunes Store. Note: For information about whether your cabling, receiver, or television supports HDCP, refer to the manufacturer of the device.

9. Does the Apple Mini DisplayPort adapter support HDCP? Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters that offer digital connections—such as the Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter and the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter—support HDCP content. Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters that offer analog connections—such as the Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter—do not support HDCP content.

10. What is the difference between an active adapter and a passive adapter?

An active adapter can convert a signal from one connector to another. The Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI and Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapters are active adapters. A passive adapter acts as a pass-through from one connector type to another and does not convert a signal. The Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter is an example of a passive adapter.

11. Should I use a passive or active adapter?

On some Apple computers, like the Mac Pro (Mid 2010), you can connect three displays to a single graphics card. In this scenario—to connect to three display to use three ports—use active adapters to connect the Mini

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DisplayPort ports to your external displays. Two displays can connect via Mini DisplayPort and one via DVI. Note: Learn more about supported display configurations for the Mac Pro.

12. Can I output via Mini DisplayPort to an RCA or S-Video connection?

No. The Mini DIsplayPort connector allows output to Mini DisplayPort, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI, and HDMI connections when using the proper cables and adapters. However, output to RCA, Component, or S-Video connections is not supported.

13. How is the Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter different from the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter?

The Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter works best with displays that operate at dual-link resolutions, which are resolutions above 1920 x 1200. For displays that do not support dual-link DVI resolutions (displays that operate at resolutions of 1920 x 1200 or lower) you should use the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter instead.

14. Which monitors work with the Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter?

Use the Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter to connect your computer to a 30-inch display that includes a dual-link DVI connector, such as the Apple Cinema HD Display. Note: For such displays, be sure to connect the USB connection on the adapter to the USB port on your Mac; also connect the USB connection from the display to the USB port on the adapter.

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3382[11/17/13, 5:40:34 PM] Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

15. What can I do if my external display is not working properly with the Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter?

If you are using an external display that is not dual-link DVI, use the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter for best performance.

Try these steps if your dual-link DVI display has video issues while it is connected with the Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter:

1. Reset the Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter by disconnecting its Mini DisplayPort and USB connections from the computer for few seconds. 2. Reconnect the cables to the computer to see if the issues persist. 3. If your issue is still unresolved, disconnect the Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter as described in step 1, then power off the monitor. 4. Reconnect all cables and power on the display. 5. If issues continue to persist, restart the computer.

16. Why doesn't the DVI connector for my external display fit my Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter?

Important: The DVI connector on the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter is for digital connections only. Some DVI connectors use additional pins on the connector to send analog information from the display to the computer. Connectors with additional pins are not compatible with the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter.

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Apple DVI to VGA adapter Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter The Apple DVI to VGA adapter has four additional pins around the thin connector on the left. Those pins provide an analog signal and are not used with the Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter.

17. What should I do if I have flickering or compatibility issues with my Apple Mini DisplayPort adapter?

Be sure to install the latest update for your Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter. If you have flickering issues using your Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter with certain displays, learn how to update to an adapter with Firmware version 1.03.

18. What is the maximum resolution available for use with the Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter?

The resolution available with the Apple Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter is 1920 x 1200. VGA displays that use higher refresh rates (such as 85 Hz) at resolutions of 1600 x 1200 or greater may not generate video properly until you lower the refresh rate.

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Additional Information

Learn more about troubleshooting display related issues. Learn which adapters are compatible with specific Apple computers. Learn more about Thunderbolt ports and displays.

For information about products not made by Apple, refer to the manufacturer of the device.

Important: Information about products not manufactured by Apple is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute Apple’s

recommendation or endorsement. Please contact the vendor for additional information.

Last Modified: Aug 2, 2012

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Additional Product Support Information

Apple Cinema Display

Mac notebooks

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http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3382[11/17/13, 5:40:34 PM] Apple Mini DisplayPort adapters: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3382[11/17/13, 5:40:34 PM] Apple - Thunderbolt: Next-generation high-speed I/O technology.

Thunderbolt is a revolutionary I/O technology that supports high-resolution displays and high-performance data devices through a single, compact port. It dramatically redefines the idea of expansion. And it’s standard on every Mac.

http://www.apple.com/thunderbolt/[11/17/13, 6:11:44 PM] Apple - Thunderbolt: Next-generation high-speed I/O technology.

On every new Mac, Thunderbolt technology gives you access to a world of high-speed peripherals and high-resolution displays via one simple port and a cable that carries both DisplayPort and PCI Express data.

Now with Thunderbolt 2 built into the new Mac Pro and MacBook Pro with Retina display, you can connect the latest 4K desktop displays and get double the bandwidth for your peripherals. And the two generations of Thunderbolt technology are compatible with each other.

http://www.apple.com/thunderbolt/[11/17/13, 6:11:44 PM] Apple - Thunderbolt: Next-generation high-speed I/O technology.

PCI Express is the technology that links all the high-performance components in a Mac. And it’s built into Thunderbolt. Which means you can get PCI Express speed outside the box. With Thunderbolt, your external devices like RAID arrays and video capture solutions become hot‑pluggable and easy to move between your Mac computers.

http://www.apple.com/thunderbolt/[11/17/13, 6:11:44 PM] Apple - Thunderbolt: Next-generation high-speed I/O technology.

Thunderbolt gives you two channels on the same connector with 10Gb/s of throughput in both directions. Ultrafast, ultraflexible Thunderbolt 2 pushes that to 10Gb/s Channel 20Gb/s. You can move data to and from peripherals up to One 20 times faster than with USB 2 and up to 12 times faster10Gb/s Channel

than with FireWire 800. You also have more than enough ThunderboltTwo

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bandwidth to daisy-chain multiple high-speed devices 5Gb/s without using a hub or switch. For example, you can connect several high-performance external disks, a video USB 3 capture device, and even a display to a single 2.5Gb/s Thunderbolt chain while maintaining maximum ExpressCard throughput.

800Mb/s Expansion is no longer confined by the space inside your FireWire 800 Mac. Now you can plug in your PCI Express cards using a

Thunderbolt chassis. You can even connect more than 480Mb/s

one chassis together to plug in many more cards than USB 2 you could in a computer with a finite number of expansion slots. With PCI Express technology, you can use your USB and FireWire peripherals — and connect to Gigabit Ethernet and Fibre Channel networks — using simple adapters.

http://www.apple.com/thunderbolt/[11/17/13, 6:11:44 PM] Apple - Thunderbolt: Next-generation high-speed I/O technology.

Thunderbolt 2 gives you access to the latest 4K monitors. In fact, with the Mac Pro, you can connect up to three 4K displays at once. And because Thunderbolt is based on DisplayPort technology, it provides native support for the Apple Thunderbolt Display and Mini DisplayPort displays. DVI, HDMI, and VGA displays connect through the use of adapters.

If you’re a video editor, imagine using a single port to connect high-performance storage, a 4K display, and high-bit-rate video capture devices to handle all the post- production for a feature film. Thunderbolt I/O technology allows you to daisy-chain up to six Thunderbolt peripherals, including an Apple Thunderbolt Display and the Promise Pegasus 2 RAID or LaCie 2big disk. *

http://www.apple.com/thunderbolt/[11/17/13, 6:11:44 PM] Apple - Thunderbolt: Next-generation high-speed I/O technology.

And with Thunderbolt standard on every Mac, you can easily share high-performance peripherals among your Mac computers. You can even use a Thunderbolt cable to create a fast 10Gb/s link between Mac computers, thanks to IP over Thunderbolt support in OS X Mavericks.

All that power and blazing-fast data transfer flows through the Apple Thunderbolt Cable, one of the most advanced cables ever made. No single cable has been able to do so many things and do them with such astonishing speed. It doesn’t just connect high-performance devices. It is one in its own right. Thunderbolt also provides double the power of USB 3, delivering 10 watts to peripherals like external solid-state drives for improved performance on the go. And with cables available in lengths from half a meter to 30 meters, there’s plenty of room to grow.

http://www.apple.com/thunderbolt/[11/17/13, 6:11:44 PM] Apple - Thunderbolt: Next-generation high-speed I/O technology.

Explore the range of Thunderbolt peripherals available from the Apple Store

*Please check with manufacturers for availability.

Thunderbolt

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http://www.apple.com/thunderbolt/[11/17/13, 6:11:44 PM] About the Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter firmware update

Languages About the Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter firmware update This firmware update addresses possible intermittent flickering and compatibility issues. In some cases those issues may include no video on some external monitors when using the Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter with your Mini DisplayPort-enabled Mac.

There are two parts to this process:

1. Installing the Mini DisplayPort to VGA firmware update application onto your hard drive 2. Using the Mini DisplayPort to VGA firmware update application to update your Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter's firmware

Before you begin, make sure your computer is plugged in to an AC power source.

Some USB and FireWire devices may prevent firmware updates from installing correctly. If you are having trouble installing this update, disconnect non-essential devices and use only an Apple keyboard, mouse, display, Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter, and external monitor.

Note: This update requires a Macintosh-formatted disk or partition, an administrator password, and 29.8 MB of free space.

Installing the Mini DisplayPort to VGA firmware update application onto your computer

1. Close all applications except your web browser.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3492[11/17/13, 6:16:32 PM] About the Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter firmware update

2. Download the Mini DisplayPort to VGA Firmware Update. The download will place a disk image that contains an installer onto your Desktop. Note: If you download the update using Safari, Safari will notify you that an application is contained in the image. Click OK to continue. If the "Open safe files after downloading" option is selected in Safari preferences, the disk image file will mount by itself. If that preference is not enabled in Safari, double-click the disk image to mount it. 3. Double-click the "Mini DP VGA Firmware Update" disk image to open it. 4. Double-click the MiniDPVGAFirmwareUpdate.pkg file. 5. Read the "Welcome" screen, then click Continue. 6. Read the "Important Information" screen, then click Continue. 7. After reading the Software License Agreement, click Continue. 8. To agree to the license terms, click Agree. 9. Select the volume where you want to install the update and click Continue. By default the firmware will install to the folder path /Applications/Utilities. 10. Verify that you have enough disk space (29.8 MB) and click Install. 11. You will be asked for your administrator password. Enter the password and click OK. 12. By default, "Mini DP VGA Update" will install to the /Applications/Utilities folder. 13. After the software successfully installs on your hard drive, an "Installation Completed Successfully" message appears. Click Close.

How to update your Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter firmware

1. If it is not already running, open the Mini DP VGA Firmware Update from the /Applications/Utilities folder. 2. Read the onscreen firmware update installation instructions, then click Restart. Note: The firmware update application may appear behind the installation window. 3. Enter an administrator password and click OK. 4. Your Mac will restart, and you may hear a long tone. The screen may appear black for up to a minute or more while the firmware updates. Do not turn the Mac or external monitor off while this is happening. When the update finishes writing the firmware, it will restart your Mac again. 5. When the update is complete, a "Firmware successfully installed" appears. Click Quit.

Your Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter is now updated.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3492[11/17/13, 6:16:32 PM] About the Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter firmware update

Important: If a message appears indicating that the updater cannot find a supported Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter, check the following:

Make sure your adapter is plugged in and attached to a working external monitor, then click Retry. If you continue to get this message, the external monitor may not work with the updater. If available, try using a different external monitor or call Apple for additional assistance. If the updater application reports that your Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter is already up-to-date, you computer does not require this update.

If you have more than one Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter that requires this update, make sure to connect only one at a time.

Last Modified: Mar 17, 2009

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http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3492[11/17/13, 6:16:32 PM] Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Languages Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ) Learn about the Thunderbolt ports on Apple computers and displays, their uses with OS X and Boot Camp, and system requirements for Thunderbolt usage.

About Thunderbolt:

1. What is Thunderbolt? 2. Is my computer, display, or cable Thunderbolt capable? 3. Which Macs have Thunderbolt ports? 4. How do I get the best performance from Thunderbolt? 5. Does the Thunderbolt port supply power to connected devices?

About Thunderbolt Adapters and Cables:

6. What does the Apple Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (2.0 m) do? 7. When I have a Mac connected via the Apple Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (2.0m) via Target Disk Mode or Target Display Mode, do devices connected to that Mac become active on my computer? 8. What does the Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter do? 9. What does the Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter do? 10. Will the Apple Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (2.0 m) or Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter work when plugged in to the Apple Mini DisplayPort on my Mac? 11. Where can I learn more about these adapters and cables?

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Using the Apple Thunderbolt Display:

12. What are the system requirements for using my Apple Thunderbolt Display in OS X? 13. What are the system requirements for using my Apple Thunderbolt Display in Boot Camp? 14. How many Apple Thunderbolt Displays can I use with my in OS X? 15. How many Apple Thunderbolt Displays can I use with Mac in Windows 7 or 8 with Boot Camp? 16. Can I connect a Mini DisplayPort display to my Apple Thunderbolt Display for computers that support using more than one display? 17. Can I use an Apple Thunderbolt Display and an iMac in Target Display Mode to act as two additional displays for my Thunderbolt-equipped Mac?

Using Mini DisplayPort displays or displays connecting with Mini DisplayPort adapters on Macs with Thunderbolt Ports:

18. Can I connect a Mini DisplayPort Monitor or Monitor using a mini DisplayPort adapter to a Thunderbolt port on my Thunderbolt-equipped Mac? 19. How do I connect my Mini DisplayPort Monitor or Monitor using a Mini DisplayPort adapter to my Thunderbolt-equipped Mac when I have other Thunderbolt devices connected? 20. Can I connect my Mini DisplayPort monitor or monitor using a Mini DisplayPort adapter to my Apple Thunderbolt Display?

Using Thunderbolt with Boot Camp and Windows 7:

21. Why isn't my device recognized when I plug it directly into the Thunderbolt port when running Windows 7 or 8 via BootCamp? 22. Can I plug and unplug devices (Hot Plug) into a Thunderbolt port under Windows 7 or 8 via BootCamp? 23. My Macintosh running Windows 7 or 8 does not sleep when a Thunderbolt device is plugged in. Is this normal? 24. Can I use Target Display Mode or Target Disk Mode with Boot Camp and Windows 7 or 8 using a Thunderbolt-capable iMac? 25. If I eject a Thunderbolt device using the Taskbar tool or disconnect the Thunderbolt cable, can I reconnect it again without restarting?

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26. Do Thunderbolt devices stay connected if my Mac hibernates? 27. Why doesn't the ExpressCard I insert into my MacBook Pro ExpressCard slot seem to be recognized while I'm using Windows with Boot Camp?

1. What is Thunderbolt?

Thunderbolt is a revolutionary I/O technology that supports high-resolution displays and high-performance data devices through a single, compact port. It sets new standards for speed, flexibility, and simplicity. Thunderbolt I/O technology gives you two channels on the same connector each with 10 Gbps of throughput in both directions. That makes Thunderbolt ultra fast and ultra flexible. Click here for more detailed information on Thunderbolt.

2. Is my computer, display, or cable Thunderbolt capable?

The Thunderbolt port or connector end looks like this:

The port's appearance is physically the same as Mini DisplayPort. To confirm you have a Thunderbolt port on your Apple computer, display, or cable check for this symbol next to or above the port or connector:

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More information on Apple's Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (2 m) is available here.

3. Which Macs have Thunderbolt Ports?

The following models are Thunderbolt capable:

MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Late 2012) MacBook Pro (Retina, Mid 2012) MacBook Pro (Early 2011) and later MacBook Air (Mid 2011) and later Mac mini Server (Mid 2011) and later Mac mini (Mid 2011) and later iMac (Mid 2011) and later

To find out which model Mac you have follow these steps:

1. In Os X Lion, choose About this Mac from the Apple () menu. 2. Click More Info. 3. Your model information should appear next to your computer's icon.

Note: If you have Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard or earlier, use the following resources on how to identify your MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, or iMac to indentify your Apple computer.

4. How do I get the best performance from Thunderbolt?

To help you get the best performance from your Thunderbolt devices, make sure your Thunderbolt-capable Mac is running Mac OS X v10.6.8 or later and has the latest software and firmware updates installed:

1. Choose Software Update from the Apple () menu. A list of available updates for your computer will

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5219[11/18/13, 12:05:12 PM] Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

appear. 2. After installing the updates and restarting your Mac, run Software Update again to see if more updates appear. Thunderbolt specific updates include:

Thunderbolt Software Update 1.1 (OS X Lion version). Thunderbolt Software Update 1.1 (Mac OS X Snow Leopard version). Thunderbolt Firmware for the Mac: Thunderbolt Firmware Update. Thunderbolt Firmware for the display: Thunderbolt Display Firmware Update.

IMPORTANT: If you reinstall OS X, be sure to disconnect any Thunderbolt devices before starting the installation. (The only exception to this is a Thunderbolt display connected to a Mac mini—leave these connected.) After the installation, run Software Update immediately and apply all available OS X updates before reconnecting any Thunderbolt devices.

5. Does the Thunderbolt port supply power to connected devices?

Yes. A Thunderbolt port supplies power if that Thunderbolt port is part of a device that is connected to an AC power outlet or is operating on battery power. If your Thunderbolt devices have their own power supplies, you should connect the power supplies to them for optimal functionality. If you are using Thunderbolt devices that get their power only from the Thunderbolt bus, computers running on battery power will experience battery drain more quickly.

6. What does the Apple Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (2.0 m) do?

This cable allows you to connect Thunderbolt devices, Thunderbolt-equipped iMac's in Target Display Mode, and other Thunderbolt Apple computers in Target Disk Mode.

7. When I have a Mac connected via the Apple Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (2.0m) via Target Disk Mode or Target Display Mode, do devices connected to that Mac become active on my computer?

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5219[11/18/13, 12:05:12 PM] Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

No. The additional devices will become peripherals for the Mac in Target Disk Mode or Target Display Mode. The additional devices do not "chain" through the Mac and its other Thunderbolt port.

8. What does the Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter do?

The Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter lets you connect Gigabit Ethernet devices to your Mac using the Thunderbolt port.

9. What does the Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter do?

The Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter lets you connect FireWire devices to your Mac using its Thunderbolt port.

10. Will Apple's Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (2.0 m), Apple Thunderbolt to Firewire Adapter, or Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter work when plugged into the Apple Mini DisplayPort on my Mac?

No, the Apple Thunderbolt cable, FireWire Adapter, and Gigabit Ethernet Adapter require a Thunderbolt port to function. They may still fit in a Mini-DisplayPort connector but will not be recognized or otherwise function.

11. Where can I learn more about these adapters and cables?

For more information on Apple Thunderbolt cables and adapters refer to:

Apple Thunderbolt cables and adapters About Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (2.0 m)

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5219[11/18/13, 12:05:12 PM] Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Apple Thunderbolt Adapters: Frequently Asked Questions

12. What are the system requirements for using my Apple Thunderbolt Display in OS X?

A Thunderbolt-capable Mac (listed in question 3). The latest software and firmware updates for Thunderbolt-capable computers listed in question 4. Mac OS X v10.6.8 Snow Leopard or later.

13. What are the system requirements for using my Apple Thunderbolt Display in Boot Camp?

A Thunderbolt-capable Mac (listed in question 3). The latest software and firmware updates for Thunderbolt-capable computers (listed in question 4). For OS X Lion: Boot Camp 4.0 (included with Lion). For Mac OS X v10.6.8 Snow Leopard: Boot Camp updated to version 3.3.

14. How many Apple Thunderbolt Displays can I use with my Mac in OS X?

The table below indicates how many Thunderbolt displays can be connected to Thunderbolt-capable Mac computers in OS X.

Maximum number of Computer connected displays

Thunderbolt-capable Macs with only Intel HD Graphics 3000 integrated graphics can support one connected Apple Thunderbolt Display (27-inch).

MacBook Air (Mid 2011) One Thunderbolt display MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011) and (13-inch, Late 2011)1 Mac mini (Mid 2011), 2.3 GHz

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Mac mini with Lion Server (Mid 2011)

Thunderbolt-capable Macs that can support up to two connected Apple Thunderbolt Displays.

MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Late 2012) and later 4 MacBook Pro (Retina, Mid 2012) and later 4 MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012) Two Thunderbolt MacBook Pro (15-inch and 17-inch, Early 2011) and later displays MacBook Air (Mid 2012) and later iMac (Late 2012)2 iMac (Mid 2011)2 Mac Mini (Late 2012)4 Mac Mini (Mid 2011), 2.5 GHz 3

Note: The F8 key does not work when using Windows with a USB keyboard connected to an Apple Thunderbolt Display (27-inch).

1 You can connect a second Apple Thunderbolt Display (27-inch) to a MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011) and (13-inch, Late 2011), but the built-in display on the MacBook Pro will go dark. This is expected behavior.

2 iMac (27-inch, Mid 2011), iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2012), and iMac (27-inch, Late 2012) with two Thunderbolt ports supports a total of two Thunderbolt displays regardless of which Thunderbolt port each display is connected to.

3 Mac mini with AMD graphics can support an HDMI compatible device on its HDMI port when using two Thunderbolt displays.

4 MacBook Pro (Retina, Mid 2012), MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Late 2012), and Mac Mini (Late 2012) computers can use an HDMI-compatible device on it's HDMI port while using one Thunderbolt display, or they can use two Thunderbolt displays.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5219[11/18/13, 12:05:12 PM] Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

15. How many Apple Thunderbolt Displays can I use with a Mac in Windows 7 or 8 with Boot Camp?

You can use only one Apple Thunderbolt Display with Windows 7 or 8 with Boot Camp.

16. Can I connect a Mini DisplayPort display to my Apple Thunderbolt Display for computers that support using more than one display?

Mini DisplayPort displays will not function if connected to the Thunderbolt port of an Apple Thunderbolt Display. Displays connected via Mini DisplayPort video adapter or cable to the Thunderbolt port of an Apple Thunderbolt Display will not work.

17. Can I use an Apple Thunderbolt Display and an iMac in Target Display Mode to act as two additional displays for my Thunderbolt-equipped Mac?

Yes. If your Thunderbolt-equipped Mac supports two Thunderbolt displays this is possible. Your Thunderbolt- equipped Mac will need to be connected to your Apple Thunderbolt display and the iMac will need to be connected to the Thunderbolt port of the Apple Thunderbolt display. Once connected, place the iMac into Target Display Mode to enable it as the second external display.

Notes:

Make sure the Thunderbolt Display is connected to your Thunderbolt-equipped Mac and is being recognized and used by the Thunderbolt-equipped Mac before connecting the iMac to the Thunderbolt display. If the iMac is placed in the Thunderbolt chain before the Apple Thunderbolt Display, the Thunderbolt display will work as an external display for the iMac and it will stay active as an external display for the iMac, but it will not function with the main Thunderbolt-equipped Mac using the iMac's display. To use an iMac in Target Display Mode when connected to an Apple Thunderbolt Display, the iMac must be Thunderbolt-enabled, and a Thunderbolt cable must be used (not a mini-DP cable).

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5219[11/18/13, 12:05:12 PM] Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

18. Can I connect a Mini DisplayPort monitor or monitor using a Mini DisplayPort adapter to a Thunderbolt port on my Thunderbolt-equipped Mac?

Yes. A Mini DisplayPort display or a display connecting with a Mini DisplayPort to VGA, DVI, or HDMI adapter will work just like it was connecting to a Mini DisplayPort connector when plugging in directly to the Thunderbolt connector on your Apple computer. Click here for more information on Mini DisplayPort connections and adapters.

19. How do I connect my Mini DisplayPort monitor or monitor using a Mini DisplayPort adapter to my Thunderbolt-equipped Mac when I have other Thunderbolt devices connected?

When connecting a Mini DisplayPort display or a display using a Mini DisplayPort adapter to a Thunderbolt peripheral (except as described in question 14), make sure the display is connected at the end of the Thunderbolt chain. You can use only one Mini DisplayPort device in the Thunderbolt chain.

Note: Systems with more than one Thunderbolt port, like an iMac, can have more than one Mini DisplayPort monitor or monitor connected with a Mini DisplayPort adapter connected as each Thunderbolt port can support one Mini DisplayPort display.

20. Can I connect my Mini DisplayPort monitor or monitor using a Mini DisplayPort adapter to my Apple Thunderbolt Display?

Mini DisplayPort Monitors or Monitors connecting with Mini DisplayPort adapters will not function when connected through a Thunderbolt Display. They must be connected directly to the Thunderbolt port on the computer or to a non-display device as indicated above.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5219[11/18/13, 12:05:12 PM] Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

21. Why isn't my device recognized when I plug it directly into the Thunderbolt port when running Windows 7 or 8 via BootCamp?

Windows 7 and 8 scans and activates devices connected to the Thunderbolt port only during the startup process. If a device isn't connected when the computer starts up, Windows will not recognize the device. Restart the computer with the device connected to the port. Thunderbolt devices may also need a driver when running on Windows 7 or 8.

22. Can I plug and unplug devices (Hot Plug) into a Thunderbolt port under Windows 7 or 8 via BootCamp?

No. To add Thunderbolt devices, shut down the computer, connect the new devices, and then boot to Windows

23. My Macintosh running Windows 7 or 8 does not sleep when a Thunderbolt device is plugged in. Is this normal?

Yes. Sleep is disabled in Windows 7 or 8 while a Thunderbolt device is plugged in.

24. Can I use Target Display Mode or Target Disk Mode with Boot Camp and Windows 7 or 8 using a Thunderbolt-capable iMac?

No. Target Display Mode and Target Disk mode are not supported using Boot Camp and Windows 7 on a Thunderbolt-capable iMac.

25. If I eject a Thunderbolt device using the Taskbar tool or disconnect the Thunderbolt cable, can I

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5219[11/18/13, 12:05:12 PM] Thunderbolt ports and displays: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

reconnect it again without restarting?

No. A directly-connected Thunderbolt device that is removed with the Taskbar tool or by disconnecting the Thunderbolt cable will not be recognized until you restart the computer.

26. Do Thunderbolt devices stay connected if my Mac hibernates?

If the battery in your portable Mac is depleted enough to cause your portable to hibernate, all Thunderbolt devices will be disconnected. After connecting to power and waking the system, restart your computer to reconnect your Thunderbolt devices.

27. Why doesn't the ExpressCard I insert into my MacBook Pro ExpressCard slot seem to be recognized while I'm using Windows with Boot Camp?

"Plug and Play" with ExpressCard does not work while a Thunderbolt device is connected to your MacBook Pro. Disconnect or eject the Thunderbolt device to use your ExpressCard slot.

Important: Information about products not manufactured by Apple is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute Apple’s

recommendation or endorsement. Please contact the vendor for additional information.

Last Modified: Sep 25, 2013

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