Is there a way to set a global resolution for all users?

I have an iMac running Snow Leopard in a classroom, and it is connected to a projector and a SmartBoard. We have trouble with different users using different display resolutions, and so it changes the resolution of the projector as well. The problem is, the SmartBoard has to be re-oriented every time for each user because of this. I'd like to set a global resolution for all users, and make it so they cannot change it. This will eliminate our problem with the SmartBoard orientation.

Thanks in advance!

What you need is something to keep your users out of System Preferences after setting up a "native resolution" for the projector.

Open System Preferences on the iMac, go to "Security & Privacy". Click on the "General" tab. Click on the small lock at the bottom, enter your admin password to open the lock. Under the label "For all accounts on this computer" place a check in the box that states: "Require an administrator password....."

Make sure you use a strong admin password with a mix of alpha, numeric, and odd characters. That should keep your students from making changes to the resolution.

I see what you're saying, and I know I can lock down the preferences, but how do I set the resolution for all users, both those who have a profile on the computer and any new users?

I should have mentioned that this iMac is on a Windows network, and the users don't have local user accounts on the Mac but rather log in with a domain account. The only 'local' account ON the Mac is the administrator account.

I should have mentioned that this iMac is on a Windows network, and the users don't have local user accounts on the Mac but rather log in with a domain account. The only 'local' account ON the Mac is the administrator account.

Click to expand...

That does make a difference if your users are logging in remotely. There may be a way to lock down the resolution on the projector itself.

Anyway, try what I suggested in my first reply to see if you can get it to work that way. It would certainly be a lot easier.