Can you use a MacBook through a iMac screen?

[Rachel C]

Hello,

I have a 13" MacBook and a 24" iMac. There's certain software I only have on the MacBook; is there a way I can connect my MacBook to the iMac so I can work on the bigger screen?

Any advise would be much appreciated.

 

[yellow]

Nope. The video connector is video out only.
Your best bet is to use screen sharing to control the MacBook. Your won't get a "bigger screen" (as in, more resolution), but you'll have a larger surface area to work with.

 

[edesignuk]

http://www.screenrecycler.com

Not great for refresh rates as it operates over VNC which is generally pants, but it's your best and only option.

 

[Rachel C]

Thanks, that's great. May not be optimal for resolution and speed but it is what I'm after.

Is it any different with the MacBook Pro? An old colleague used to plug his into a PC monitor - I wasn't interested at the time but I now wonder what kind of set up he had.

Many thanks.

 

[yellow]

You can plug a monitor into your MB, no problem. You just need the right dongle, mini-dvi to DVI or VGA.

 

[raremage]

You can certainly use an external monitor (DVI or VGA) so long as you have the mini adapter.

 

[Rachel C]

Thanks; all very useful.