Using iMac as external display

[yusukeaoki]

Hi guys.

Quick question, can I use my iMac as an external display for my MBP?
I have a old iMac G5 (ambient model) lying around.
G5 processor? Too slow for me now.
So I wanted to give it a better use rather than letting it dust in the corner.

First question. Is it possible?
The model I want to use is the iMac G5 Ambient light sensor model (2GHz).
I tried using screenrecycler but it lags extremely (I mean there is no cable so)

I dont want to spend a grand for a Cinema Display.
I dont want to pay extra 100 for a monitor.
I want to use this old Mac I dont even use.

So again, is it possible? I heard couple cable conversions but there was no details so...
The iMac is equipped with minidisplay port.

Thanks! and Happy New Year!

 

[yusukeaoki]

........bump...

 

[dontwalkhand]

I do not think this is possible, only the "new style" iMacs have something called Target Display Mode, which allows it to essentially be used as a monitor like you wanted.

 

[finkmacunix]

http://www.screenrecycler.com/

 

[dontwalkhand]

http://www.screenrecycler.com/

I wouldn't try to watch any videos or do anything short of a word document or browsing the internet (no YouTube, or the like) on that secondary screen with this.

 

[yusukeaoki]

http://www.screenrecycler.com/

as I already stated, its horrible.
No wire meaning its really laggy.
And trial ends in 20 min.
I can even scroll correctly with that thing.

----------

I do not think this is possible, only the "new style" iMacs have something called Target Display Mode, which allows it to essentially be used as a monitor like you wanted.

"New Model" meaning the aluminum model?

 

[AdrianK]

It's possible, but you need to fashion some kind of LVDS to DVI lead, apparently.

 

[yusukeaoki]

It's possible, but you need to fashion some kind of LVDS to DVI lead, apparently.

ohh... I see whats going on there.
But the problem is, I still want to use my iMac as an computer.
I dont want to take it apart.
In this case, these people's iMac were dead.

I was thinking more of cable conversions through the minidisplay port but I guess it cant be done.

 

[dontwalkhand]

Best to give that old thing to someone who does not currently have a computer, I am pretty sure you will make their day...especially having it be a Mac and all.