IMac 2017 5k host, iMac 2017 21 target display mode

displayimac

I am using my iMac 2017 5k as my main machine and want to use my 21 inch 2017 iMac in target display mode.

When I try Command + F2 I hear a beep and nothing happens. I have also tried doing it at the login screen and also tried fn + Command + F2 but nothing worked. What am I doing wrong? Is this possible?

Best Answer

Neither of your Macs support target display mode. Below are the Macs that do.

iMac (27-inch, Late 2009)
iMac (27-inch, Mid 2010)
iMac (Mid 2011-Mid 2014)

For more information see Use your iMac as a display with Target Display Mode.

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IMac – Can a Lenovo T430s with Thunderbolt use 2011 iMac in target display mode

Just got off the phone with Lenovo tech support after unboxing my T430s/i7 because it didn't have a Thunderbolt symbol on the back... just a DVI symbol. Confirmed: NONE of the 430's they're shipping even HAVE it yet. I'm sending mine back, suggest you do the same. The internet is saturated with references that they have it that all sound as though they are informed by press releases... and Lenovo chat even tells you they have it... but no joy. Technology never fails to disappoint.

Switch to Target Display Mode without keyboard

I found a way to do it with an old, white apple keyboard, haven't tested with others but it might work.

I used a tool called Karabiner from https://pqrs.org/osx/karabiner/. When you install it, enable following options to get Command + F2 to work:

F1..F12 to Functional Keys (Brightness Adjust, Music Control, etc)
- F1,F2 to Brightness Adjust
--- F1 to Brightness Down
--- F2 to Brightness Up

After enabling this option, hit Command + F2 having previously connected your macbook using thunderbolt cable. If you're lucky you'll have a new external display working!

Best Answer

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IMac – Can a Lenovo T430s with Thunderbolt use 2011 iMac in target display mode

Switch to Target Display Mode without keyboard

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