Apple loves mini stuff; it used Mini-DVI and Micro-DVI on older versions of Mac and MacBooks. However, for some reasons it didn’t choose Mini-HDMI this time, rather, it went with Mini DisplayPort on the latest Apple computers.
Considering Mini DisplayPort has rather uncommon presence, it is likely you cannot use your Macbook to deliver a presentation, or output your work project from Mac to another display, or simply share your photos to your family or friends on a bigger screen.
Although there are a few types of Mini DisplayPort adapter, it’s probably the safest to buy a Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter, because nearly every display, old or new, has a VGA port. This is especially true if you need to frequently hook up your Mac laptop to a projector to deliver a presentation. While some new projectors will have HDMI or DVI ports, not all of them do, however they all feature a VGA port.
Getting a Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter, anyone can easily output video from your favorite Macbook or laptop to any display. You can easily:
* Extend or mirror your workstation to a different screen;
* Give presentation to the class mates, students or colleagues with your own MacBook or laptop;
* Share videos your friends on a bigger external screen or TV.
Here are a few things you should look at before you buy one.
1. Does Your Computer Use Mini DisplayPort?
Quite a few Mac users may not be sure what exactly their video port is. Is it a Mini-DVI, a Micro-DVI, or a Mini DisplayPort?
Well, currently, there is only a very short list of items that are employing Mini DisplayPort:
* Apple’s latest (2008 or latter) Macbook, Mac laptop Air, Mac laptop Pro 13 inch, 15 inch, and 17 inch;
* Apple’s latest (2008 or latter) Mac, Mac Pro, Mac Mini, iMac, Xserve;
* Toshiba Satellite Pro S500, Tecra M11, A11 and S11 notebooks;
* AMD Radeon HD 5870 Eyefinity 6 Edition with its 6 Mini DisplayPorts;
* Adapters and cables that will work with the above computers and displays.
To be sure which port you have, simply Google keywords like “Mini DisplayPort”, “Mini-DVI”, “Micro-DVI”. Since they do have very distinct appearance, you can easily tell by comparing the photos with the video port on your computer.
2. Supported Video Specifications
An effective Mini DisplayPort-VGA adapter should support 1920×1200, 1080i/p, 720p and all the standard-definition (for example, DVD) resolutions.
It is the basics of the basics. If the Mini DisplayPort adapter doesn’t support these resolution, it’s not worth buying at all.
3. Is It Mini DisplayPort v1.1a Compliant?
You want a v1.1 compliant Mini DisplayPort adapter.
Mini DisplayPort was the Apple’s own standard. However, Apple now licenses the Mini DisplayPort free-of-charge. Later in 2009, VESA, the maker of DisplayPort standards, has adopted Mini DisplayPort into DisplayPort v1.1a specification, and it will incorporate Mini DisplayPort in the future v1.2 specification.
With the free license, other firms can now make inexpensive Mini DisplayPort products. And meeting v1.1a specs makes certain your Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter is sure to offer the best compatibility.
4. Appearances
This is more or less of your personal taste, so use your very best judges and choose one that you want, which, for instance, matches your Apple computer’s colour and general style.
Summary
A decent Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter should have these elements:
* Matching your computer;
* Support all standard definition and HD resolutions;
* Compliant with Mini DisplayPort version 1.1a specs;
* Matching your preferences.
If you have checked all these features when deciding which Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter to shop for, you should be in good shape.