iMac A1207 (2006) connect to external monitor?

[Morgan Mac]

Hi. I was recently given a 20" 2.16GHz Apple iMac A1207 (Late 2006) computer. Everything intact, except for the LCD screen. The fans kick into gear and the chime plays from the speakers when it is powered on, so based on this I assume it is fully functioning. Just missing the screen.

I do not want to commit to buying a new screen unless I can confirm that the computer is indeed fully functioning. So my question is; is it possible to connect a non-Apple LCD monitor temporarily to allow me to navigate on the hard drive and poke around for anything broken?

If that is possible, can it be done without having to first select the new monitor within Display settings? Also, what is the technical name for the video connector?

Here are the ports on the backside of the iMac.

 

[DeltaMac]

The video port (at the right side of your picture) takes a mini-DVI connector.
All you need is the proper adapter for the monitor that you want to use.
Those are not too hard to find - DVI could be https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-Mini-DVI-to-DVI-Adapter/dp/B001VL2XK2
or, for VGA --- https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-Video-Adapter-Macbooks-MDVIVGAMF/dp/B001ODKN36

 

[Morgan Mac]

The video port (at the right side of your picture) takes a mini-DVI connector.
All you need is the proper adapter for the monitor that you want to use.
Those are not too hard to find - DVI could be https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-Mini-DVI-to-DVI-Adapter/dp/B001VL2XK2
or, for VGA --- https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-Video-Adapter-Macbooks-MDVIVGAMF/dp/B001ODKN36

Do you know if using a video adapter will allow it to work as an external monitor without first having to select it in the Settings window?

 

[MultiFinder17]

If you hook a monitor into it, it will configure itself assuming he computer boots. It won’t be configured as the main display, but it will work.

Also, check out your local craigslist. You can find that exact iMac for under $50.