Using a second monitor

[lisharts]

As I've posted recently I'm looking to pick up a new imac in the next couple of weeks to replace my old mac pro.

I have an Apple 23" cinema display which if I don't find a use for will end up going in the loft (which seems a bit sad).

So I'm thinking I might try hooking it up as a second monitor. My questions are:

1. Do I need to order any special connectors or cables to do this?
2. Will using a second monior put strain on the computer if used all the time? I don't want to wear out my imac too soon.

Thanks for the help.

 

[spinnerlys]

1. http://store.apple.com/us/product/MB570Z/A?fnode=MTY1NDA5OQ&mco=MTA4MzU1NTE

2. It will take more resources from the GPU, but not so much to actually damage it.

 

[steveotron]

I'd recommend buying this instead of that overpriced adapter from Apple: http://www.monoprice.com/products/p...=10428&cs_id=1042802&p_id=5106&seq=1&format=2

 

[ChristianVirtual]

All you need is (as mentioned above) the adaptor for the "old" monitor.

I connected my 24" ACD with MiniDisplayPort on my new iMac 27"; lots of pixels to be filled.

4480 x ~1300 Pixel ...

I don't believe that that would damage the system in the long run; that would be a design flaw if the second display port would be for decoration only.

Of course the performance of the GPU will be impacted as two screens need to get supported. When doing some hardcore-gaming might be a good idea to disconnect the secondary monitor. This would give the GPU the chance to concentrate on one monitor only.