I am considering an iMac. One of the main uses with my current Windows PC is playing movies and videoes on my LCD TV. In windows you can simply press windows-key+P to switch between displayes wich is fast and easy. Is there a similar easy way to switch on the imac?
Easy switching between displayes?
- Thread starter Toranaga
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You can set your displays to show the same image (mirror) or to be used as an extended desktop setup. Either one is very easy to use and setup. I connect my MBP to my 52" Sammy all the time.
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I know on my MBP if I keep lowering the brightness it shuts off. I also think shift-control-eject might do exactly what you want, but I don't have an iMac and external display to test. Also, pretty sure you could use Shades (Shades | Software | Charcoal Design) or something similar (black background) to also achieve an acceptable solution.
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Is the Windows PC you're referring to a notebook computer? I don't remember any of my Windows desktops being able to switch to an external display via the Windows Key + P. Remember, the iMac is a desktop computer not a notebook.
I don't know for sure, but I don't think you can completely shut off the screen on an iMac when attaching an external monitor or TV. You can certainly do it with a MacBook Pro or MacBook by using clamshell mode.
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You can keep the Displays preferences menu in your menu bar for quick access. I switch back and forth between having the same image on both screens and having the external monitor be an extension of my desktop.
To do what you want to do, you'd just turn mirroring on and turn down the brightness on your iMac to zero. Done!
To do what you want to do, you'd just turn mirroring on and turn down the brightness on your iMac to zero. Done!
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On my MacBook Pro pressing shift-control-eject momentarily and then releasing it darkens both screens.
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As Slydude said, pressing Shift Control Eject darkens both monitors. Just tried it with my MacBook and Samsung external.
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