Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

idealcanadian

macrumors newbie
Original poster
Aug 23, 2011
3
0
Hi, I just bought a used macbook pro 15". It is not a new one. It is the old non-unibody from 2008. I think the last one before they switched to the unibody. I would like to hook it up to a monitor. However, I do not know how to do this as this is my first mac. Can someone please explain what cords I need and how to hook it up. Please be very basic in your explanation...

Especially as I am already confused as some websites say I need a mini dvi - dvi other websites say i need a mini display port to dvi and others say that because my computer is older I just need a 29pin dvi male/female extension cable ????????

Please help I am so confused
 
We need to know two things:

1. What type of external monitor port does your MBP actually have?

2. What type of cable does your monitor actually have?

Mini-DVI
300px-Kobushi-mini-dvi.jpg


Mini DisplayPort
mac-book-dvi-adapter1.jpg


Standard DVI
dvi.jpg
 
macbook connection for monitor

My macbook pro has the connection that you labeled as - standard dvi (your bottom picture).


The monitor is vga
 
My macbook pro has the connection that you labeled as - standard dvi (your bottom picture).


The monitor is vga

You therefore need a DVI to VGA adapter, and a VGA cable that is long enough for your needs.

If you don't mind not having the instant gratification of going to a brick and mortar store, I recommend monoprice.com

This would do nicely:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/p...=10419&cs_id=1041903&p_id=2396&seq=1&format=2

with the length of cable you need from this page:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/s...rd=Video+Cables+-+<b>VGA/SVGA</b>&keyword=vga
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.