Connecting MacBook Pro to Dell w3201c HDTV

[maybeangel]

Hi all,

I have a fairly old Dell W3201C, and I would really like to connect my MBP to the TV via a Thunderbolt to HDMI cable. But something isn't working!

Everything is set up correctly - my computer recognizes the TV, and lists resolution options for the TV under Displays, and gives me the option to send audio to the TV. I am certain that the cable works. I am certain that the TV is on the correct input. I am certain that the HDMI port on the computer works.

I wonder if the problem might be the resolution? I think it needs to be 1080something? 1080i and 1080i (PAL) show up, but I still have a black screen when I select either of them and the TV reverts to the original settings. There is no option to select 1080p, is that my problem?

I tried turning on mirroring, and it seems like I am able to select and confirm 1080i there, but still the TV stays black.

I had this working in the past and am frustrated that I can't remember how to do it! I recall that it required a lot of research, and I'm fairly sure it was a setting on my computer that finally got things working. I would be very grateful for any help!!!

(And apologies if this issue is addressed elsewhere - I searched but found nothing!)

 

[maybeangel]

Okay, just kidding... It just worked for about three glorious seconds, then I bumped my computer and it went black again. But, I tried two different cables, one with a fairly new Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adaptor and a normal HDMI cable, and one long Mini to HDMI cable... I wonder if the problem is actually the Thunderbolt port on my computer?? That would make me very sad.

Still would love input if anyone has suggestions.

 

[maybeangel]

And yes, I realize that this won't even matter in like 8 days after Mavericks comes out, because I can just use the Apple TV. It has become more of an intellectual challenge at this point - woman versus machine!!