Owners of the newly launched 27 inch iMac are probably aware that the model can be used as a display for their other computers and gadgets like DVD players. While the procedure is not actually complicated and it can be done by connecting another laptop or desktop computer to the new iMac’s Mini DisplayPort, one needs to remember that Mac OS X continue running. Therefore using the iMac in target display mode is a little tricky than using other monitors.
For these users Apple has issued some instructions that make using the iMac in target display mode a hassle free affair. These instructions are aimed for users who want to connect a PC to the iMac. Apple is yet to provide any guideline for connecting other media players and devices to the 27 inch iMac. Apple has said that the 3rd party companies will have to provide the adapters for that purpose.
Apple has also mentioned in its support documentation that the users need to use the Command +F2 keyboard combination to activate or deactivate the target display mode. Before a user tries to connect the iMac to another PC or gadget the unit needs to be on and running. The Mac OS X remains active even in the Target Display mode. However, the OS will not accept any mouse input or keyboard entry barring volume adjustment and display brightness. The FireWire and USB ports as well as the iSight camera remains unreachable to the other device. The interested users can check the Apple site for details.
