iMac as a monitor?

[hitek79]

Random question here, but I'm in need of a new desktop. Thing is I really don't think I can justify getting a Mac Pro because I need dual monitors(I already own 1 ACD), and it's overkill for what I need currently. In a couple of years though, I might need a more powerful computer, so at that point in time would it be doable to use the iMac as a second monitor for a new Mac Pro? At that point in time my daughter could use the iMac for her day to day stuff, and I could make use of my current ACD and the iMac as my second monitor.

 

[SR20DETDOG]

iMacs can be used as just displays, it's called Target Display Mode.

If the iMac has thunderbolt (2011 models onwards) then it can be used as a second monitor for any computer that also has thunderbolt.

Pre-thunderbolt iMacs (pre-2011 models) can also do the same thing but will work with computers that don't have thunderbolt.

More info can be found at Apple's TDM FAQs page http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3924

 

[hitek79]

Sweet, that is EXACTLY what I was hoping for. Thanks!

 

[petalino]

2006 Imac as second display for new 2013 iMac?

I actually have the same question.

I will be replacing my 20-inch Late 2006 (10.7.5) with a new, current generation 27 inch iMac.

I doubt that my old 2006 IMAC has Thunderbolt.

Can I use the old iMac as a second display for the new (looking at getting refurbished 2012 edition) 27" iMac I will be buying soon?

iMacs can be used as just displays, it's called Target Display Mode.

If the iMac has thunderbolt (2011 models onwards) then it can be used as a second monitor for any computer that also has thunderbolt.

Pre-thunderbolt iMacs (pre-2011 models) can also do the same thing but will work with computers that don't have thunderbolt.

More info can be found at Apple's TDM FAQs page http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3924

 

[petalino]

Just wondering if anyone might have an answer?

I actually have the same question.

I will be replacing my 20-inch Late 2006 (10.7.5) with a new, current generation 27 inch iMac.

I doubt that my old 2006 IMAC has Thunderbolt.

Can I use the old iMac as a second display for the new (looking at getting refurbished 2012 edition) 27" iMac I will be buying soon?

 

[hitek79]

Just wondering if anyone might have an answer?

I think you just need a Thunderbolt to MiniDisplay port cable, and it should work.

 

[old-wiz]

2006 iMacs do not have target display mode and accept no video input.

You would need some kind of screen sharing app or an elgato device.