iMac 2009 as an external monitor

[Manneman32]

Hey!

Got some questions. I have looked through Apples support-page and started to get some answers. But I´m not really there yet. So... hoping to get some answers here

I have a iMac 21.5" from 2011 that I use alot. I also have a iMac 24" 2009 that I run with Linux... no dualboot, just a raw boot with Linux.
Apple states that I can use the 2009 as an external monitor for my 2011 with a Mini Displayport cable. BUT they also state that I need to have High Sierra installed. I guess that´s for switching between the native os and the external monitor function (command+f2).

Is it even possible to use the 2009 as a external monitor without MacOS installed? I was thinking that it all could be "hardwired" since many mac keyboard shortcuts still work with Linux.

Any tips or hints?

 

[Nguyen Duc Hieu]

It's only working with the iMac 27" late 2009.
It requires MacOS High Sierra (I haven't tested earlier version of Mac OS) at the log-in screen or desktop screen. GPU driver must be loaded up by then.

You can also convert the iMac to a stand-alone display by replacing its guts with an LCD driver kit tailored made for the specific LCD panel (21.5" or 24" accordingly)

 

[Manneman32]

Allright!

Can I ask you one more thing? Having trouble finding the correct solution for restoring the 2009 iMac. I have a iso of Maverick. I know it’s compatible. Can I upgrade the mac after installation the usual way or do I have to fix a bootable media with ElCapitan?

 

[Manneman32]

Answering mu own question: yes, it works with updates