Extending your iMac with External Screens
I have to admit the new iMacs are just to damn gorgeous. The LED-backlit display is really bright and inviting. Now, embracing new processor family from Intel and powerful graphics from ATI Radeon, the new iMacs are really an amazing All-in-one solution. If you are looking for a new desktop, get an iMac.
Recently, I wrote on Connecting Multiple External Monitors to your Macbook Pro. Many friends contacted me who are currently deciding between Macbook or an iMac. All of them had the demand to have an extended desktop available for their ever demanding increase in desktop real estate. As I’ve already covered the Macbook and Macbook Pro scenario, its time to look at the new iMacs.
iMac 21.5″
The 21.5″ iMac in my opinion is a very practical size and machine for a family computer and also a pro user. With 1920 by 1080 pixels resolution, using Mini DisplayPort output with support for DVI, VGA, and dual-link DVI (adapters sold separately), its quite easy and natural to hook up extra screens. The 21.5″ supports for extended desktop and video mirroring modes and allows simultaneously support full native resolution on the built-in display and up to a 30-inch display (2560 by 1600 pixels) on an external display.
Apple has decided only to make 27″ LED Cinema Displays now, so we have to look for other makes for our needs. Here are few which I think will do the job well.
The old 24″ LED Cinema Display, if you are lucky to grab one, is my first choice as it meets the size closely. At $780, its expensive but you are guaranteed the closest match to your new iMac display. Buy Apple LED Cinema Display 24-Inch.
Beyond Apple, the following are a good choice:
Samsung EX2220X 21.5-Inch 1920 x 1080 5ms 16.7M High Performance Widescreen LCD Monitor with LED
Buy Now $180
ViewSonic VX2250WM-LED 22-Inch (21.5-Inch Vis) Widescreen Full HD 1080p LED
Buy Now $165
HP 2210m 21.5-Inch Diagonal Full HD LCD Monitor – Black
Buy Now $194
iMac 27″
Ah! The 27″ iMac. Don’t you just love this mighty machine. Now, what I think can be one great setup would be add the upcoming 27″ LED Cinema Display with your iMac 27″. That would create an enormous 2 X (2560 by 1440 pixels) resolution at your disposal. Apple designed the 27″ Cinema Display to complement the bigger iMac. See the picture below:
Beautiful isn’t it? Costly, definitely!
More than 1 Screen?
Whoa! 1 extra screen with your iMac not enough? Well, ofcourse you can add more. And to achieve that you need to get yourself one these. I’ve discussed about using these gadgets to hook up your macbook / macbook pro with external screens, please do read it though it works around a particular need.
Make sure before purchasing any device, you must have answers to your following questions:
- What port it will hook up to e.g., USB, firewire, Mini DVI etc.
- What is the Max resolution available through this device e.g., 2560 by 1440 pixels
- What monitor I’m going to use and what max resolution it will support.
Conclusion:
The iMac is now a complete power house capable of delivering great results for both average and pro users. Extend the screen size to get maximum utilization. I hope you have enjoyed this article. So whats the solution you are going for?
