Home > Consumer Reviews > Apple - Video adapter - mini-DVI (M) - DVI-D (F)

The converter is esssential for anyone who needs to use a second monitor for their imac. In my case, the imac is driving a 1080p HD display, and the video card does a fine job of running both simultaneously. The adapter plugs into the proprietary adapter on the back of the imac. Although technically not a review of the adapter, a larger question is why there couldn't be a standard DVI plug in the first place. The adpter plugs in without a satisfying click or other mechanical prop to help keep it anchored, and whether this is a feature or a bug, it comes out quite easily.

Much has been made in other forums of the fact that the flavor of the connection is DVI-D, lacking the extra 4 pins to make an analog connection, but once you are aware of the limitation it doesn't make much difference. Most modern displays (NOT CRTs) can handle the digital interface. But if you are connecting the female end of the adapter to a DVI-I male connector, it wont fit, lacking both the four pin holes around the ground and supporting a narrower flat ground pin than the DVI-I connector.

This is a great product and is the best choice for connecting your MacBook or iMac to a digital screen. As other reviewers have stated, be careful which DVI cable you are getting. If you are connecting to an HDmi port, I recommend this cable: Cables Unlimited, HDmi To Dvi-d Cable, 6ft. I currently use both to connect my MacBook to my 46" 1080p TV and the quality retention of the digital signal is truly striking. Try Apple's QuickTime HD trailers if you're looking for a demo of the great picture quality. My only complaint is the relatively high price, but then again, there isn't anything else out there that fits the specifications. Remember, make sure the cable you're attaching is DVI-d and you'll save yourself some headache.

FYI, as of this writing, you can get this directly from Apple for $19.00 + $4 S&H. A better deal than shown here.

Oh, and you'll probably need another cord for any practical use. I hooked it up w/ this Eforcity Black 2 Meter HDMI Male to DVI Male Cable and now can use my HDTV as a 2nd monitor. Very cool.

Don't know why Apple doesn't just build in a regular DVI output or include this adapter. (Maybe to make more money?)

I bought this cable so I could connect my MacBook(2008) to my Samsung 32 inch flatscreen. You need to also buy a DVI to HDMI cable, which I also got through Amazon. Here is the link for it: Cables Unlimited PCM-2296-06 HDMI to DVI D Single Link Cable (6.56 Feet, Black). This setup worked perfectly for me. The video quality is pretty good,assuming you are watching high-quality video on your computer. I noticed there are other more expensive cords, but I don't think there is a noticeable different in quality.

I have mistakenly purchased this product for my MacBook Pro (latest edition). This mini-DVI plug does NOT work in the latest MacBook Pro.

I can't say if this cable works with any other Mac (from other reviewers, it appears to be compatible with some Apple products). But please save yourself some money and headache and do not purchcase this adapter if you own the latest MacBook Pro.