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Randman · Mar 15, 2005, 07:10 AM

Just got my hands on an old Apple 15-inch monitor

Was thinking of getting a mini later on or maybe a PB12. In the interim, I wanted to use it as a second monitor with my rev c PowerBook 17

The VGA-DVA connector won't work as the monitor has a male plug. So what do I need to connect the two? Any extra power source? And what about later on if I wanted to get a mini? Thanks.

subego · Mar 15, 2005, 07:28 AM

Doesn't it have an ADC (Apple Display Connector)? If so, you can get a DVI to ADC adapter, which splits the ADC into DVI, power, and USB. It should work with the Mini as well.

It does cost a bill however, and I don't think there's a cheaper model, but I could be wrong.

Wiskedjak · Mar 15, 2005, 07:37 AM

Dr.Bott has something similar, but it's only marginally cheaper and a little more bulky.

SpaceMonkey · Mar 15, 2005, 07:44 AM

Also, the old 15" LCDs had a max resolution of 1024x768, so I'm not sure how useful to you it would actually be when paired with a 17" Powerbook.

Randman · Mar 15, 2005, 07:49 AM

The Dr Bott was about $5 less.

But, just checking that this is what I'll need.

Apple DVI to ADC Display Adapter

Buy the Apple DVI to ADC adapter to connect your DVI-equipped PowerBook G4, Mac mini, or Power Mac to an ADC-based Apple flat panel display* including: Apple Studio Display (15" or 17"), Apple Cinema Display (20"), Apple Cinema Display (22") or Apple Cinema HD Display (23").

Price
$99.00

Introducing the Apple DVI to ADC adapter, which allows you to connect any Apple flat-panel display featuring an Apple Display Connector (ADC) to a PowerBook G4, Mac mini, or Power Mac computer with DVI port.

The combination of the new Mac mini or PowerBook G4 with a DVI (Digital Visual Interface) port and the Apple DVI to ADC adapter brings the pure-digital viewing experience of Apple's professional-quality displays to Mac mini or PowerBook users. Now you can benefit from a larger viewing area when your Mac mini or PowerBook is at your office.

The Apple DVI to ADC Adapter is also a superb solution for Power Mac users who need extra workspace of the highest visual quality (requires Power Mac equipped with DVI port). Use it to connect an additional ADC-equipped Apple flat-panel display to a Power Mac computer with a DVI port, and you'll have the ultimate digital desktop.

The Apple DVI to ADC Adapter offers much more than just a physical connection between a DVI port and a digital ADC monitor. It has been carefully designed to maintain the digital integrity of the video signal for the best possible viewing experience. The adapter provides an all-digital signal path between the computer and the display. It features active components that regenerate both the digital graphics and USB signals coming from the computer. This ensures delivery of the highest-quality images even at the extremely fast signal rates used by the Apple Cinema HD Display.

A compact design enables the Apple DVI to ADC adapter to fit easily on or under your desk. This single unit includes a power supply, power cord, and DVI/USB cable.

Randman · Mar 15, 2005, 07:51 AM

Originally posted by SpaceMonkey:
Also, the old 15" LCDs had a max resolution of 1024x768, so I'm not sure how useful to you it would actually be when paired with a 17" Powerbook.

I got the monitor for $50 (no dead pixels but I didn't know about the extra needs). I'm still thinking of using it with a mini for my fiancee.

subego · Mar 15, 2005, 07:58 AM

Originally posted by Randman:
But, just checking that this is what I'll need.

AFAICT, yes.

Randman · Mar 15, 2005, 08:28 AM

Ok thanks for all the help. Have to decide if it's worth it or if I should try and moving the monitor.

southtdi · Mar 15, 2005, 09:54 AM

If you are near an Apple Store ask them if they have the ADC to DVI converter in back on refresh. I have bought two this way locally form Apple Stores and they are half price. Not a single problem with either and you still get the 14-day return policy and a 1-year warranty.

Randman · Mar 16, 2005, 04:08 AM

Thanks. Called the AppleStore and got a discount on one. Should be delivered tonight. Will see how it goes once I get home.

Randman · Mar 16, 2005, 12:54 PM

Adaptor came tonight and it was even cheaper than the Dr Bott one. Hooked up fine. May come in handy as my fiancee and I may have to do the long-distance gig because of work, and if so, I'll get her a mini with the monitor and an iSight.

Thanks for all the help.