connecting new Macbook Air to 24inch Apple display

I'm currently using a 2009 MacbookPro linked to a 24inch Apple LED display. I'd like to upgrade to a 13inch Macbook Air but noticed it doesn't have the same connection terminals. I understand that the new 27inch display uses a thunderbolt connection but I don't want to buy a new display. The 24inch display has 3 usb ports on the back. Is it possible to get a usb to thunderbolt cable so I could hook up my 24inch display to a new MacbookAir?

Any light thrown on this one would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks,
Rosie

The display you have uses mini-DisplayPort if I'm not mistaken. That connector is compatible with the Thunderbolt port on the MacBook Air and should work just fine without an adapter.
Apple - Thunderbolt: Next-generation high-speed I/O technology.

EDIT: Just to address your other question about using the USB ports for the display signal.... no. Not possible. Not necessary anyway.

Thank you so much MoTM. That sounds positively encouraging! I may not keep this display for ever because I'd like to get one more specialised for processing photos, an Eizo or Nec maybe. I hope the same will be possible.
Greetings from London U.K.
Rosie

Wha...? I didn't even realize I was nominated for MotM. I guess I should thank everyone. LOL! Anywho, glad I could help. More importantly, I hope I wasn't wrong.

lifeisabeach said:

Wha...? I didn't even realize I was nominated for MotM. I guess I should thank everyone. LOL! Anywho, glad I could help. More importantly, I hope I wasn't wrong.

Click to expand...

Congrats on your un-known MoTM win!

And no, you're not wrong with your hardware advice here. I use my 2012 Air with a 24" ACD jumped of the back of a Thunderbolt drive.