Macbook Air Cinema Display Question.....im New

[ipodtouchy333]

Hello, I am thinking about switching to mac. This will be my first one, although I have had experience with macs in school. Right now I have a Dell PC. Anyways I am wanting a cinema display. I really am not sure about the mac mini for it and definately don't want a mac pro. If i were to get a macbook air, how would the connection to the display work. This may sound stupid, but do I get another keyboard and mouse for the display or use the trackpad??? I really have no idea about connecting a laptop to a cinema display and if someone could explain the basics I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks a lot!

 

[gr8tfly]

You can either use it to extend the Desktop by using both displays, or use it as a single display with the MBA closed. When closed you need to use either a USB keyboard & mouse, or Bluetooth (or, I suppose, some combination).

Right now, using my MBP, I'm typing on the Apple BT Aluminum keyboard and a BT mouse, while connected to a 20" ACD.

 

[helium]

if you want to you can actually use the ACD as the only monitor (air's display switched off) while keeping the macbook air open to use its keyboard and trackpad

 

[raremage]

I have a 20" in my home office ( a few years old, but still works, so...)

Here's how I work:
When I plug in the cinema display it becomes my primary desktop. I use the MBA's display as an extension.

I use a bluetooth mouse and keyboard.
My iPhone doc plus a powered drive for backups run through a USB hub and into the MBA as well.

I'm planning to get a stand for the MBA so it is just a bit higher on the desk but haven't settled one (OT here, but suggestions are welcome).

Works great for me.