This post has been de-listed
It is no longer included in search results and normal feeds (front page, hot posts, subreddit posts, etc). It remains visible only via the author's post history.
As a user of a few different iMacs, including one dedicated for use in Target Display Mode, I wanted to clear up some information online regarding which iMacs support TDM as well as what cables are necessary. This table applies to the 2009-2011 iMacs because they're the ones that tend to confuse people, but the information for the 2011 iMacs also applies to models through 2014 that support TDM.
I hope this is helpful to someone, and let me know if there's anything I've missed or anything that needs to be updated.
| iMac model | Supported sources | Supported cables | Entering TDM | Audio support? | Resolution support? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Late 2009 and Mid 2010 27" iMac running macOS High Sierra or earlier | DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, HDMI (with adapter), Thunderbolt | miniDP to miniDP, miniDP to DP (can be used backwards) | No input required, iMac enters TDM when a source is connected | Yes | Up to 2560x1440 |
| Mid 2011 21.5" and 27" iMac running macOS High Sierra or earlier | Mac with Thunderbolt made in 2019 or earlier | Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt, Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter for use with USB-C Mac | When a Thunderbolt cable is connecting the iMac to another Mac, press Command F2 on the keyboard connected to the iMac* | Yes | 27": Up to 2560x1440 21.5": Up to 1920x1080 |
Important notes:
The 2011 iMacs can be picky about entering TDM. Using a wired Apple keyboard connected to the iMac is the most reliable method of entering TDM, as the iMac may ignore the command from other keyboards.
FAQ:
Does the iMac to be used in Target Display Mode need to be booted into macOS?
Yes, the iMac must be fully booted into macOS in order to enter TDM.
Can I use a Thunderbolt cable to connect a 2009 or 2010 iMac to a newer Mac with Thunderbolt?
No, a miniDP to miniDP cable is necessary in this situation.
Can I connect my 2011 iMac to my PC with a miniDP cable?
No, the 2011 iMacs only support TDM when connected to another Mac through Thunderbolt.
Sources:
I have personally tested multiple 2009-2010 27" iMacs and a 2011 27" iMac with a variety of sources, and the information provided above reflects both my own findings as well as the findings of others online. I have tested these iMacs with a 2006 Mac Pro, a 2013 MacBook Pro, a 2017 MacBook Pro, a 2012 iMac, and a variety of desktop PCs and other Macs.
Subreddit
Post Details
- Posted
- 3 years ago
- Reddit URL
- View post on reddit.com
- External URL
- reddit.com/r/mac/comment...