MacBook external LCD display problem

[dreamly]

I'm trying to connect my MacBook to an external 19" Samsung LCD monitor. I connect using a standard Apple mini-DVI to male DVI adaptor, which in turn is connected to a third party female DVI to female VGA adaptor, which in turn is connected to a VGA cord which connects to the monitor (male on both sides).

My monitor shows up in the System Preferences display settings, where I can control everything properly, but the screen is black. I can move my cursor over to the other screen, so it seems the MacBook can recognize the monitor. The monitor connects fine using the VGA cord to a Thinkpad.

Is there any inherent with this connection configuration?

[bearbo]

I'm trying to connect my MacBook to an external 19" Samsung LCD monitor. I connect using a standard Apple mini-DVI to male DVI adaptor, which in turn is connected to a third party female DVI to female VGA adaptor, which in turn is connected to a VGA cord which connects to the monitor (male on both sides).

My monitor shows up in the System Preferences display settings, where I can control everything properly, but the screen is black. I can move my cursor over to the other screen, so it seems the MacBook can recognize the monitor. The monitor connects fine using the VGA cord to a Thinkpad.

Is there any inherent with this connection configuration?

how many input does the external take, make sure you are using the right one

[dummerwa]

have you selected the 'mirror image' function?

Its a late reply which you haveno doubt since solved. Have you been able to get a full screen display when connected to your tv/external monitor.

I seem to get just a letterbox display when I really want full screen. My 17" macbook pro is attached to a toshiba lcd and I want ful screen. any ideas?:apple: