Add Multiple Monitors to a Mac Mini
Mac Minis are among the least expensive Macs currently on the market, but had one limitation of inability to add multiple monitors, but there are now very good USB to Video solutions on the market that will correct this limitation.
Steps
- Choose a good Mac compatible USB to DVI or USB to VGA adapter. There are many available from different manufacturers. Look for adapters that contain the DisplayLink chip as these are Intel-Mac compatible.
- Make sure you've downloaded the latest DisplayLink Mac Drivers, like these: http://sewelldirect.com/Drivers/DisplayLink-OSx-1.1.zip
- Install the drivers through the guided setup by first selecting the image file (.dmg) and opening it, accept the license agreement, select which drive to install the driver on (Macintosh HD), press the install button, and restart your computer.
- Plug your USB to Video adapter into your computer's USB port and attach your monitor's cable to the adapter. You can do this while your computer is on and it will recognize the device in the same way it recognizes most plug-n-play devices.
- Once your computer recognizes the adapter, it should automatically extend your desktop. If you prefer that it mirror the original monitor instead, or if you want to change any of the resolution settings, go to the Systems Preferences area and select "Displays".
Tips
- When setting up multiple monitors choosing two of the same size is recommended.
Warnings
- Apple Inc. does not support the use of multiple monitors on the Mac Mini. Any issues encountered will need to be addressed with the manufacturer of the adapter and not AppleCare.
Things You'll Need
- Intel Based Apple Mac Mini
- Two VGA or DVI Monitors, up to 24"
- One Mac Compatible USB External Video card (USB to DVI, or USB to VGA)
