I have tried every way to connect my Macs together, but none of them worked. Then, I came across your video and just purchased the product through the link you provided! Thanks for the informative content, Phill!
Hi Phil, I watched all your videos. I took the plunge and bought a Luna for use with my late 2014 iMac 27” retina. Worked like a dream I now have my MacBook Air connected to an LG40WP94 and my iMac. It now feels like Mission Control. Thank you Phil, I never would have done it if I had not seen your videos.
Though I'm just discovering your content, I wanted to take the time to thank you for your effort and quality. I came across Luna as an option for iPad and then thought to myself, "There HAS to be an option like this for an older iMac." I quickly scrolled through some of your other videos and I'm excited to watch some of them as well. I truly wish I had an uncle, or someone in my life like you to refer to. Simply incredible.
Never have I EVER viewed a RUclipsr speak in "My learning style. Also, I had the exact scenario as you explained. I have the 2013 as well. I did not want to send it to I-heaven. I had so much storage to use. Thanks so much! I will update once I've got it.
Absolute Saver! I have the exact setup with a 2013 iMAC running Catalina and 3TB Fusion Drive that I didn't want to lose. Just got a newer Mac Studio. Fantastic Video - I will get this ordered up.
Thank you for your informative tutorial. I was in the same situation as yourself and having watched you tutorial convinced me that this was the way to go. I have purchased a Luna Display and am really pleased with the results. Thanks again.
Although plenty of people showed how to use an old imac as second display, what u show is a company who made and app to use it with their software. I think many are going to do this as we are plenty of people with old imac intel
Thank you!!! I’ve been trying to figure out how to use my iMac like this for weeks. Apple really blew it on this but ours they want to sell a $1700 monitor vs helping customers get the most from their purchases.
IT WAS THE KEYBOARD!!! Fantastic Video - thank you! NONE of my 27 inch 2011 iMacs would connect in target display mode until I switched to the long flat wired keyboard with numeric keypad on the right. Like was mentioned in one of these helpful videos - the keyboard that came with the iMAC. Keyboard model A1243 EMC 2171. Now all four DO connect to my Macbook pro. The iMac wireless ones, Imac long wired ones with typewriter-like keys - none of these worked. Just the flat long keyboard (17 inch x 4.5 inch x less than 1/2 inch)
Phil, that’s just brilliant! Liked and subscribed too. Quick question, is it possible to also use the old macs mic and camera too? I have the same old screen as you, running Catalina and a Mac mini linked to an old Apple Cinema Display (tight Yorkshireman 😂). Many thanks indeed.
finally, someone who actually demonstrates the latency properly! Quick question, does the latency vary depending on what you are displaying/running on the screen?
I haven't really tested a variety of different applications to see if one looks to be slower than another but definitely the Luna Display secondary does have a lower frame rate than a native first screen, however I've grown to love this feature more as I've used it!
Thank you Phil. I had all but given up trying to connect my iMac late 2014 5K model with my Macbook Pro 2021. I wish Apple easily provided a second screen option. The question I have for you is, is there a benefit of selecting "connection via Thunderbolt only" compared to the Wifi option. I have a Thunderbolt cable and relevant adapaters. I'm trying to work out if it is faster?
Thanks for the great video. How colour accurate is the iMac display? I am using Duet and it is unfortunately not accurate enough to do any colour work. I am hoping that Luna is a better solution and provides for greater colour accuracy. Also, can you calibrate the second display when using Luna?
Brilliant question! So I colour calibrated my main (Luna) display ( I'm a photographer/video maker and colour management specialist!). You can't colour calibrate the Luna Secondary display, but you CAN calibrate the iMac before connecting it as the Luna Secondary, so it uses it's own ICC profile...and it works great!
Thank you for your really clear no-nonsense content! Very helpful! I would love to see how LUNA Display behaves once it is set up. Do apps always start on the primary screen and you then move them to the secondary iMac screen? Do you then continue to use the mouse of your primary, but they work on your secondary? Do you ever use the keyboard and mouse of your secondary computer again after that? Do the camera and mic on the secondary screen still operate? You say that you could use the secondary display without the primary one. How would you do that? As you can see here, I have lots of questions that go beyond the time of installation. Thanks for your help!
Apps all open on the primary Mac and you move them over to the secondary screen. The keyboard and mouse from your iMac would still be used and connected for you to login, but not used whilst using Luna display. The camera and microphone from your iMac no longer work whilst using luna display. Setting up the iMac as the main screen is a possibility, but you need a secondary screen in order to make that happen.
Hello Phil. Thanks for a great run-down of the Luna Display. I have the same iMac and I'm planning to pair it with a Mac Mini M2 (nothing purchased yet). I don't want to use the iMac as a secondary display, but as the only display. Could you give a hint as to launching the software and logging in when it is the primary monitor? Many thanks.
A simply brilliant video and well explained. I have a 27 inch 2014 imac and about to purchase the M2 mac mini. Apple informs me that I cannot use the 27 inch monitor as no target mode is now installed on these later imacs. I assume (please correct me) this gets round the problem? The other question s that it is for sale on Amzon UK at 180 pounds but available direct for 79 USD?i
Yes, this is the answer to Apple's removal of Target mode. Check my other videos on the Luna Display, as I do think it's best used along with a 'normal' monitor. Purchasing direct using the link in the description is likely to get you the best price. You will get to a page showing delivery cost to UK too. Recently I worked out that the US$ conversion ended up a little over £100 including shipping & VAT.
Thanks Phil, Ordered it yesterday and your conversion was spot on at 104 GBP. One final question, the monitor as primary - van that be ant type?@@HelpfulPhil
@@kelvinyoungs6110 don't quite know exactly what you meant with your misstyping, but yes your Primary monitor can be anything, but it's nice to have one which is similar in size and ratio to your iMac.
Thanks, Phill, luna has dispatched the dongle and my new iMac mini arrives in two weeks. I promise this will be last question - what cable will I require to connect to Imac from the Imac mini please as I am unable to use the router set-up that you have used.
I have 2 ring lights plus a window to my left (your right). Ring light 1 is 45˚ above and right; Ring light 2, left, is lower than my chin and reflected off a white wall. Hope that helps.
Due to the lack of space in my mini office, I wondered about the accessibility of just using the Mac Mini with my old 2017 Imac 27" being the main and only monitor.
Yes you can do it using headless mode. The only proviso is that there is a slower screen refresh vs a dedicated monitor, so tasks like video editing should be done on a dedicated monitor whilst light work and panels can reside on your Luna display/iMac.
My question If I have a “Main” Mac and a “Old” Mac each connected via Ethernet to my Router and I use Luna Display, can I see and use both Macs as fully functioning Macs or is the “Old” Mac only accessible as a file sharing Mac and Display What I am after is being able to use my mouse and keyboard on both Macs and each Mac operates as a fully functional computer, not solely as an extended monitor with file sharing, if that makes any sense😊 Thank you for the video, really well done
I am not sure I understand this....Can I connect my M! Mac mini to my 2017 iMac using Luna?....Can the iMac serve as a monitor for the Mac mini? Thanks for a great video...
Yes, using Luna Display you can use the iMac as a monitor for your M1 MacMini. It depends upon the apps you're using as to whether you would prefer to have a directly connected Monitor and use the iMac as a secondary as shown in this video. You would need a monitor temporarily connected to the MacMini to set-up Luna Display if the iMac is going to be your only monitor.
HI I have a wacom Cintiq attached to my 27inch imac which works fine. MY IMac is getting old as its 2014 and I was waing to see whether apple would update it with e the new M! ultra. So I also have LUna display which I tend not to use as I can easily transfer wacom image to imac and vice versa.
This is exactly what I was looking to do. Thank you! Have you tried it over wifi? I do not have a router by my Mac. Looking to use my 2015 iMac as secondary screen with brand new Mac studio and Studio display.
so my router is next to my Macs. If you have a solid wifi signal in your office then it should be ideal. Tip: Luna are looking at providing a direct link Mac to Mac in their next update.
Thanks for the good video! 🙏 I was wondering how I could connect a macbook pro m2 laptop to a similar imac, what do you have when the macbook doesn't have an ethernet port?
Thanks once again for your excellent tutorial. Following watching this I purchased The Luna display and following your directions it works Great. I am connecting my secondary screen to my Mac mini via wi-fi am considering your option of ethernet Mac to Mac But I can only do this by using the two ethernet splitters, one at the router and one from the ethernet socket. any advice or suggestions please. many thanks.
Phil this is a great video. I have a 2011 iMac and a 2020 iMac (new to me). The 2011 has all of my files on it and music on it. Q-1 - Will I be able to use iTunes on the 2011 if I use the 2020 iMac as my primary? Q-1 Will I have to transfer all data to the 2020 iMac prior to using Luna?
Thanks for the comment. A1. you won't be able to launch any apps from your 2011 iMac whilst using Luna Display Secondary as it covers all other apps beneath it. You can use Apple Music on your 2020 iMac importing your iTunes music library tracks which remain on you 2011 iMac, as the 2011 becomes a storage device.
Can I still use universal control from MacBook to iPad while MacBook is connected to Old iMac 27inches 5k with Luna display? I am thinking to purchase Luna. Thank you for your content. Helpful.
Hi! Great video. I'm looking to use an iMac 27" 2019 Intel chip computer's monitor as the PRIMARY and single monitor for a new Mac Studio M2. Luna looks like it will do that. And I'd use Ethernet connections, not WiFi. Before I order Luna, can you tell me if I need another "primary" monitor (iPad, Macbook Pro) for the Studio all the time - or just the initial set up? - or can I configure the iMac 2019 monitor as the PRIMARY monitor for the Studio and only use that pair? And should I need to move all the computer software and content to the Studio and leave the iMac as only the sole monitor for the Studio? Thank you.
You will need a second monitor for the set-up of Luna Display but then you can use the iMac as the only/primary monitor in what is called Headless mode. You can leave software on the iMac but you won't be able to use it whilst using Luna Display. Luna Display (Secondary)runs in the forground of the iMac preventing use of any other app. However you can still access the hard drive of your iMac (via the Finder on the Mac Studio) for storage purposes.
Thank you for the great video. Would it be possible to use an M1 iMac as a main monitor for my M2 MacBook Air? I would like to be able to utilize the iMac's microphone, webcam and USB ports while having my laptop's lid closed on my desk. Cheers
You won't be able to use the iMac's microphone or webcam using Luna Display. You would be able to use the USB ports for external drives. I suggest you try apple's screen sharing features to see if that suits your needs. See ruclips.net/video/NZkuBpLlJVQ/видео.html
@@HelpfulPhilsince you were kind enough to answer, could you tell the benefits of using Luna over shared screen? Is it mostly having access to more files and using the iMac’s hardware to perform tasks?
@@roeescharf104 Luna Display is ideal for owners of older iMacs which don't naturally have the ability to be used as external monitors. Luna Display and Apple Screen sharing would offer very similar features in your case, with a newer M-series iMac.
Great instruction video. I just picked up a fully decked out Mac Studio for video editing (M2 ultra, 192gig ram) and looking to monitor my old 2017 iMac. Question is do I just connect an Ethernet cord from the IMac to the Mac Studio? Or do I need to run it into a router? Curious to how that works as I want to also hardwire Ethernet for internet on the Mac Studio. My mac Studio arrives later today! Can’t wait
I am upgrading my 2015 iMac with a new 2023 M3 iMac. I will be using a Luna Display dongle to share the screens as per the demonstration in the video. I understand that I will still e able to access the 1 Terabite storage on the 2015 iMac, but was wondering if I will be able to access one or more portable hard drives that are currently used with the 2015 iMac and are connected via USB A ports. The alternative is to get a USB C hub with multiple USB A ports an d plug that into the new iMac. Thanks.
You will be able to access external drives connected to your iMac, but it would be easier & more efficient to use an external USB hub with your new Mac.
Thanks for sharing this Phil. I am in the same shoes as you with an iMac from 2013... Do you know if Luna Display works as "Primary" only display to your old imac from your new mac studio (without a physical external display connected on the mac studio that is)? I wanna get an imac mini without display and simply just re-use the imac 27" display as primary display.
You can do this, it's called Headless mode; but you'd need to connect some sort of display to the Mac Mini first in order to set it up. ..using the iMac as a secondary display for all of its benefits in productivity and screen real estate is what I think exemplifies the real benefit of the Luna Display.
Sounds interesting, I am in the same boat, I have an awesome 2015 build iMac 27 that can only now be upgraded to Ventura and that would be its last OS. I am looking at a new Mac but have wondered what can I do with my current 27 iMac. So a few questions. Q-01 If say I have a Mac Studio and Studio Display and purchase Luna and link up both computers, say for ex. I open Pages app on the Mac Studio and create a document and now want to save it to the 27 iMac drive, does the Mac Studio recognize in the Finder that 27 iMac drive? Q-02 Another question: If I open up Photoshop on the Mac Studio, can I move the editing palette, Layers, History etc. to the 27 iMac and have the image remain on the Mac Studio monitor; I have a two monitor system now in which I do this? Q-03 Can you use in your situation the Mac Studio unit as a separate Mac the same time you use the 27 iMac as a separate unit while still in Luna mode? Last question: Is there anything you cannot do? PS: so glad there is a solution, I cannot see trashing my 27 iMac, 32gb ram iCore 7 unit.
A1: Yes you can still see your iMac HDD in the Finder, just as you can when running without Luna, so you can also save files to it. A2: Yes. A3: No. Luna Secondary is an app that completely takes over your iMac screen so you can't use it for any other applications. A4: You still can't get Luna to make the Tea!
So, how is this any different from using the iMac in target mode which doesn't require anything other than a cable? The new M1 mini allows for a single thunderbolt connection which I use for a late 2012 iMac and a second monitor through an HDMI cable. I am pretty sure the Studio allow for at least this and possibly even a third monitor. Why the need for LUNA?
I now have my system working flawlessly except cant make use of the ports on the imac. I have 2019 iMac, Thunderbolt cable, Mac mini M2 connected to Samsung monitor. I rely totally on the iMac for display and barely use the Samsung monitor. Please how can I use the ports on the iMac?
You can use the ports on the iMac for powering devices e.g. iPad's & iPhones. You can connect external drives which you can then access from your Finder>Network items
hanks a lot for this excellent video! Is there also a way for using "old" iMac (late 2015, running Monterey) as a secondary display for iPad Pro 5th generation?
Lovely tutorial, thank you for the clarity, and for speaking slowly enough that I could follow you! A question about using features of the Old iMac when your main computer is the Mac Studio. In order to use the HDD or, say, the webcam, would you not have to have a second keyboard and mouse, in addition to the ones you use for the Mac Studio? I know that if *both* computers are running Ventura you can move your mouse between screens and actually run the iMac with your existing keyboard and mouse; but that requires both systems to be running Ventura, and the whole point here is to make use of an old iMac which cannot run the newer OSes. Can you clarify?
Great questions. The easiest way to proceed is to use USB wired Keyboard and mouse (I only have a mouse connected to wake the iMac, as I use a WiFi program to execute key commands from my iPad - ruclips.net/video/Nxz1BR2BS9o/видео.htmlsi=WKRSaQS13rQLywKL). Also, when using Luna Display you cannot use your iMac's Facetime camera or other programs. Luna display is the only app which can run on your iMac, until you quit Luna Display, in which case your iMac returns to its native use, but stops being a 2ndary display.
Thank you for the video! So if I am an animator/illustrator and want to use my 2017 iMac as a primary display for my new MacBookPro, would you not recommend it? Not fast enough?
I recommend trying it to see if the response is fast enough for you. Also Luna display would open up other opportunities as a 2nd monitor, and with iPad for illustration etc, even if it doesn’t match your needs as a primary monitor.
Hi Just what I am looking for. You mentioned that you can still use your old Mac (secondary screen) hard drive. do you use it from you key board connected to the main monitor ? Does finder show up the secondary screen hard drive? Cheers
@@HelpfulPhil That was exactly what I was hoping for, thank you Phil. One last thing. Have you compared Luna with duet ? if so would love to here your thoughts. Thanks again if I buy I'll definitely click through on your link.
@@GrahamGphotoParker I haven't tried Duet but I know people who have and they are paying a regular subscription and there is some weird Internet connection requirement which apparently slows it down sometimes.
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you for you help and advice. I'll definitely be buying Luna for my 27" 5K iMac that is sitting on my desk gathering dust to my Mac Studio Cheers Again
Hi Phil, thanks for the video - I have ordered the Mac studio customised version, and also I do have Asus pro art display - I also have an iMac M1 - Most of our work flow is video editing - would you consider Luna display to Use on your iMac for video editing?
Nope! technically Luna Display is doing this, it's just that the Luna Display secondary app takes over the monitor preventing you from processing any other requests on the secondary Mac.
Hi Phil, Thanks for the very informative vid. Question: I'd like to use my late 2013 iMac (w/Catalina) as my main monitor for a Mac Studio, and use my existing Dell 1920 x 1080 monitor as a secondary one. Can I do that with LUNA Display? Thank you!
Hi Phil, thanks for a helpful video! I am in the position where I have used my trusty iMac 5k (late 2014) as my main computer for almost ten years and have now just upgraded my old unibody MacBook Pro (2012) to a MacBook Pro 14 inch M1 Pro. Here's my question. Will LUNA display allow me to use my old iMac as a Monitor (Macbook in Clamshell)? Also it would great if I was able to plug the LUNA display dongle into a Caldigit TS4 so when I plug my Macbook in using Thunderbolt it's connected. Any idea if this will work? Cheers Tim
Luna will certainly allow you to use your old iMac as a monitor, the 5K should look great. I haven't tried clamshell mode but I don't see why it wouldn’t work! A Caldigit TS4 has USB4-Thunderbolt ports they should work (using the USB-C Luna display), so long as you're connecting the MBP to the TB4 charging port.
Dear Phil, I wanted to express my gratitude for the incredibly informative video you shared. I'm curious to know if Luna has the capability to sufficiently power a 5K iMac when connected to a Mac Studio M2 Max. Specifically, I'm interested in its potential for video editing purposes. However, I have a hunch that achieving a 5K resolution at 60hz might prove to be a challenge, regardless of our attempts. Thank you once again for your valuable insights. Best regards,
...sounds like you've tried it. If you haven't Luna supports 5K and the M2 Mac's are capable of delivering but perhaps the 60Hz is not reliable. I can edit video on my Luna based iMac but need to make sure that no other video related apps are running, or I get stuttering.
This is great thank you. I'm looking to buy the same computer as you have and using my 27" 2011 iMac. I need for video editing did you say that's a problem? You mentioned it's about $150 but here in the Sates it shows as around $50; hope we're talking about the same product.
I do lots of video editing but use my main monitor for programme editing, my iMac is my secondary monitor where I store toolbars etc. You can use iMac for main screen but its response speed is reliant on your connection between the two computers. Prices change 👍🏼
Hi there! I have a 2011 high sierra imac. is it possible to conect it with the new macbook air 15" ? with luna display? how can i do it? heeeelp Thank u in advance!
highly recommend using Ethernet cable between both Mac's to your router. If Ethernet is not possible you may be a way to use USB-C/Thunderbolt cable, but my Mac is so old that this is not possible as it has no USB-C ports.
I am in exactly the same situation that you found yourself in. My iMac is from 2015 running Big Sur and does not have Target Display mode. I have been told by Apple that there is no way to connect it to the Mac Studio (and studio display) that i have coming in a couple of weeks. It seems such a shameful waste to bin it as it would make perfect secondary display; it's in perfect condition/working order - just no longer updatable and not powerful enough to run the apps I want to use for photography. Would the Luna setup you've described work in my situation?
Absolutely yes! Watch my other videos to answer Luna Display general questions. I am now using an iMac 2015 27" 5K as a screen for my M1 Mac Studio. Follow the link to buy.
I was just at an Apple Store to see the Mini and the Studio in person, and 'genius' bar person said the same thing - target display is long dead. I'd already researched Luna Display, but they didn't know about that. I think they are far more motivated to sell us a new 27" Studio Display which costs nearly as much as what I paid for the entire iMac in 2017. That's great, but there's no actual cpu, and it's not even bigger!
Great video, Phil. Thanks for going into such detail. I'm in a very similar boat: would love to use my 2017 5k iMac as a secondary display with my M1 MBP and Luna Display seems to be the best (i.e. only) viable option here. I do worry about how the lag will affect my ability to edit video. However, from what I've been able to find online it's worth a go at least!
I would say go for it. I have been editing on the Luna secondary (iMac) and it is fine as many editing actions are not affected by the fraction of a second delay, indeed I became blissfully unaware as you delve into the process.
@@oliverwhone hey, any update about your LUNA display on editing video? is the lag affecting the video editing process? Our setup is very similar (iMac 2017 & MBP M1). thnks
@@rakamahendra7649 hmmmm bit of a mixed bag when I'm being honest. Certainly not overjoyed with it. Connecting over wifi is a bit too laggy. Have used a connection via USB-C, which is better. Full thunderbolt cable would most likely yield even better results. However, this also means you lose 2 of your 3 ports on the MBP...which is manageable, but not ideal. I'll give it a 75% rating...when really I wanted it somewhere around 95% for perfect image quality / convenience / lag.
@@oliverwhone What is the image quality like? I have Duet, but i am not happy with the colour accuracy i see compared to my MBP M1Max and considering Luna, but if it is not colour accurate there is no real point.
Great presentation Phil:), I'm in same boat (2014 late model Imac), Set up question, how did you set up your password on your old MAC, so u just need your mouse to open up old IMAC? I'd like to do the same so I don't need two keyboards. Deciding between the new Studio or Mini (would love a new 27" IMAC , but don't think its in the works)
I have heard that a new 27" iMac is in the works, but who knows when! You can go into settings and remove the need for a Password, but I use a Remote Keyboard iOS application on my iPad and programmed a button to type my password! Here's my video on that application. ruclips.net/video/8SE08Oc1Zco/видео.html
It certainly is possible. It is called 'Headless mode'. You may find a slight delay compared to a directly connected monitor, which may affect your experience if video editing, otherwise in my opinion it's perfect. Note: you will need to initially connect a monitor in order to set up a single iMac as a screen.
Really useful video thank you! Is there any reason why I can't use the iMac as my primary display? My set up could be my poorer quality screen (hp that I just use for emails etc) as my actual primary, I'd put it off to the right though and I'd actually use the iMac screen to work in... does that make sense? Once set up would that run smoothly enough day to day? Does the screen calibration of the iMac remain the same or would it copy the poorer quality screen?
You can IMHO easily use your iMac as the main screen. You may experience a slight (milliseconds) delay, but you'd quickly become oblivious to it, plus there are a new connection options to try, including Peer-to-peer to see which is best in your set-up. I'm still using Ethernet connection for both Macs'. Screen calibration profile remains in place on your iMac.
@@HelpfulPhil Thanks for coming back to me. I'll bite the bullet and give it a go. It's probably a little faffy but I'll get used to it. I much prefer the cost saving just now and re-purposing the iMac will be great. Fingers crossed. Thank you
Yes. If you mean a MacBook then it is likely to support your 5K iMac, otherwise check the output specs of your laptop port (USB-C; Display Port or HDMI) relating to that resolution, even then it will work, but at a lower resolution.
Hello, I recently bought this monitor and the letters are blurred, do you have this problem too? how do you have it connected to your mac studio? Thank you!
Hi Phil, Very interesting tutorial. I have a 2023 MacBook Pro running Ventura 13.6.4, and a 2008 iMac computer partitioned with snow leopard on one partition to connect to older software and an older printer which all still works; and the other partition upgraded to El Capitan. I am trying to see if this set-up will work with a luna display dongle before purchasing it, and to see if I can use the 2008 iMac as a second screen as it is bigger for the purpose of viewing surface pattern designs. I have downloaded the primary luna app onto the macbook pro and that launches, but is requesting the Luna Display dongle to continue. My issue is that I have downloaded the secondary luna app onto the macbook pro and then copied it over to the iMac, but the secondary luna app will not launch at all. There are error messages, and advice to update both the operating system which I have within el capitan, and the app which is already up to date. Am I doing anything wrong here, as I checked and searches on the internet assure me that this set up should allow me to use the 2008 iMac as a second screen. Any hope? Disappointed. Pam Terry
I think your iMac is too old for the Luna Display option. Take a look at these specs to check. help.astropad.com/article/157-system-requirements?sca_ref=3948717.ToH2p0eo7q
@@HelpfulPhil I have spent a lot of time on this problem, and can only get the MacBook to work with Side car alongside the iPad Pro.Your link tells me that my old iMac is too old it would need to be 2009 as a minimum to work running High Sierra. I would need to upgrade all of the older equipment at the time; I think which wouldn't be affordable for me just now. Could you suggest a screen 27" that would work with my macbook pro and IPad Pro and Officejet printer? Thanks, Pam Terry
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you Phil, it does seem that if I need a larger screen for Surface Pattern Designs then I could go with this very good Dell screen you have suggested; would I still require the Luna Display hardware and apps for primary and secondary display, or could I just plug the Macbook Pro (2023) into the Dell display via a USB-C/A cable?
Hi Phil, Thanks for posting this very helpful video. I recently purchased a brand new M2 Mac mini and would like to use my Apple iMac 27" late 2015 as the main display but I am in two-minds at the moment. On the one hand, I am thinking of buying an Apple Cinema Thunderbolt display and using it as the main display (might sell my iMac in that case though it would be a shame coz it is in brilliant condition). On the other hand, I'm considering using Luna Display connected via Thunderbolt with the Mac mini. I do not have any heavy use such as video editing. Just visual analysis of videos (research) and other mundane tasks such as Internet browsing and word processing. Would really appreciate your advice as that will help me get out of this quandary I'm facing at the moment. Many thanks.
You'll love the M2 Mac mini, and if you do go for more powerful requirements it will be a very capable machine. Using Luna Display will allow you to keep your iMac and continue using programs which may not be compatible with the latest Sonoma OS as well as continuing to utilize the hard drive in the iMac as a storage drive. You will need a second monitor in order to set up Luna Display in the first place but then can use your iMac as the main screen in what they call Headless mode.
I wonder if this application could work. I do have my main 27-inch iMac 2015 connected to a second monitor Apple LED Cinema Display 27 Inch true thunderbolt. My second monitor is connected true thunderbolt cable to my main computer iMac. I'm in the proses to buy the New Mac Studio M2 Max and then use the second monitor LED Cinema display as a main display with the Mac Studio, of course I probably need to buy and adapter thunderbolt 2 to thunderbolt 4 connector and use it as a main monitor with Mac Studio. Now the question is, if Luna Display adapter will let me do daisy change true Appe LED Cinema Display with thunderbolt cable from my main monitor and to iMac in order to get it work. Luna Display give you the option to connect via Wi-Fi, Ethernet or Thunderbolt. I wander if I could do daisy chain true thunderbolt instead of using Ethernet. I appreciate any help and thank you for your reply, you got a new subscriber.
So the long answer to a long build up is this: You don't need to daisy chain. You just need Luna display, follow the link in the description, and connect to the iMac via whatever option you prefer, USB-C to USB-A, Ethernet or WiFi. This should then appear as a second monitor.
I purchased the LUNA and it's working brilliantly to add my old iMac as a 2nd display with my newer Mac Mini. I'm connecting via USB-C/Thunderbolt and I'm wondering if it's possible to access the harddrive of my iMac (which is my EXTENDED display)? I don't see the drive so I'm guessing it's not possible.
Hello there, I'd like to know if I can use Luna to have my old 2013 iMac as my main screen for a new Mac Studio. I'm planning to get the Mac Studio M1 Max, but it would be of great help if I can save some money not buying a display yet.
How is yours so fast? Are you on wifi? I was reading reviews and everyone said you'd have to connect your old and new with an ethernet cable or it would lag really badly. I was put off from buying it because of those reviews. Wanted to get it for my M2 Mac mini to use on a really old 2013 imac (still working beautifully, has a thunderport).
Mine is fast, both my Mac's are connected to the same Router via Ethernet see 10min into this video. Even using WiFi the responsiveness is fast, but relies on a stable, fast WiFi network. I prefer the confidence of a cable as my router has an unreliable WiFi service.
Hi Phil, thanks for sharing your knowledge about lunadisplay. It is great to find solutions to your problem. I am thinking on buy it one. I need it because I have a macbookpro from 2020 and I broke the screen. Now I am working with my tv as a monitor, but I have an old imac, 21,5" screen and it is from 2015. Now this imac runs very slow, but my children use it as a tv monitor, and it is incredible how well they can watch movies. Anyway I wonder if I connect my macbook pro through luna display to my imac, when I work using my macbookpro but throug the imac screen, will the apps from macbook pro run as fast as they run without the imac screen. I hope my question is crear to you. Thanks in advance.
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you so much for your quick response!!!! Ok, now I have all the information to buy it. As I told you, I really appreciate your video, I've been looking for a solution two weeks now. WOW!!!! thanks thanks thanks. I will share how well it works.
@@HelpfulPhil Hi Phil, I've already got the luna display, and I installed as you told us in the video. Now I can access to my broken screen macbook pro and I can also use my imac 2015 as a monitor. GREAT!!!!! Thank you so so much. I was looking for using my imac as a monitor for almost 3 years.
Very helpful video, thanks for posting it. I have some questions. I have a Late 2015 iMac with Thunderbolt 2 ports. I am planning to get a 2023 Mac Studio M2 with Thunderbolt 4 (I think) ports and a Benq SW321C for a monitor. I like the idea of using the Luna display system to use the iMac for a second display but I also wanted to make the iMac into a server. My first question is can I connect the iMac and the Studio using some kind of Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 4 connection? Is there such an adapter or series of adapters that does this? The Thunderbolt 2 is also called a Mini Display Port, maybe something like that? Maybe there is a better way to connect the two computers for the purposes of a second display with the Luna setup. The second question has to do with turning the iMac into a Server to use for Caching and other things, but mainly for Caching. Can I do this and still use it as a second display?
Your iMac is not made with Server level properties so not really...but, you can simply access the HDD of the iMac and use it for sharing, saving files etc as it appears as a networked device. Luna Display allows connecting the 2 Mac's via Ethernet (through your router), via WiFi, or even peer-to-peer, you can use thunderbolt/USB-C but may need a converter for the old iMac. Try it without first.
I've been looking for a TB2 to TB4 cable, MDP to USB-C, but it does not appear to be readily available. The only thing I've found is an adapter made by Apple that supports 2 way connections, and being Apple is relatively expensive. Not every cable will work, in fact most don't. Thunderbolt is high speed and needs cables and connectors that meet the spec and those Chinese adapters don't, an ordinary USB-C cable may not either. I'm looking to do the same thing you are, late 2015 iMac and in my case an M2 Mini. I may wait a little longer though, maybe when the M3 Mini comes out. The iMac still meets my needs, it's just getting old. Also a question, if the thunderbolt connection is made and is reliable will data also transfer over it? Or will it be dedicated to the Luna video? I have gigabit wifi but TB is 20gb on my iMac and 40gb on the Mini so much faster.
to answer your question, the USB-c/TB cable is only providing a video link between the two machines, made possible by Luna Display. Interchanging and sharing files from each of the HDD's is possible over your standard network.@@bklyncyclist
@@HelpfulPhil The Apple website says this: "The ports allow data transfer, video output, and charging through the same cable." but does not say it will do it simultaneously. I'll just have to try it when I have everything by turning the wifi off and see if it recognizes the hard drive on my iMac while on the video. My guess is that if it does allow it the video will lag while the transfer is happening. My thought is that the cheap Mini has 256gb SSD but my iMac has a 2tb Fusion drive that is still only at about 350gb used. I would use that more for archival.
Hi super video. Do you think i can use the luna display with my new mac book air 2022 M2 chip? I want to use my old iMac 2012 (Mac Os Catalina) like a secondary screen. Thank you
@@HelpfulPhil thanks for answer, I use Macbook pro m1, today I have tried use Airplay with Thunderbolt 3, don't know how but via Thunderbolt Airplay works better, but it is not the quality that I have in my iMac, now I chose to try LUNA or capture card, how do you think, what better?
@@Ihorosovyk I don't understand what you mean by Thunderbolt Airplay?...anyway, I also don't know recognise using a 'Capture Card', this usually that means for HDMI but your iMac can't accept HDMI and it won't be 5K either?! so your best bet is to use Luna with Ethernet connection as shown in the video.
I have a MacBook Pro, I connected it to the monitor/screen BenQ, that was easy to do.. but I also have an iMac (late 2015) and I would like to use it as a 3rd screen. What I mean is.. that the iMac is also connected with the Macbook Pro and the BenQ monitor/screen ... is this possible
That depends on your MBP model. If its specifications allow for 2+ monitors, plus you have a USB-C/Thunderbolt port available you should be good. Check Apples website for your MBP display options
Yes, so long as your Mac Mini has a video enabled port (HDMI or Thunderbolt ports) as described in the video. You'd need a separate external monitor first though to set-up the connection.
@@HelpfulPhil My Mac mini M2 is the latest one released by Apple. I have a TV in the living room, but far from the IMac, and then I have a small monitor. Do you mean that once the configuration is done, I could already use the main screen IMac of the Mac Mini?
If anyone know.. I am trying to connect a MacBook Pro M3 to my old 2013 iMac as a monitor and hard disk. I got the Luna usb C connectors and I am using a ethernet connection. I can't see my hard disk or desktop of the secondary monitor, been trying to do this for a while now but I can't connect. I am running Sonoma on my MacBook Pro and Catalina on my iMac. Additionally even when I use my iMac as a primary monitor all the shortcuts of Photoshop won't work(they do work on each computer when not connected to each other. Thank you Massimo
To access your files which are on the iMac, simply go to your Finder and select Network, then select the HDD of the iMac. In the future you should see the path to your iMac Name next time you go to the Finder for even easier access. Maybe the shortcuts are not working because of the Keyboard, make sure your using the keyboard linked to the MBP M3.
Thank you Phil, yes it was the Keyboard for the shortcut , As far as the finder/network is concerned I can't see anything there, are these hidden files by any chance. It doesn't see to share my hard disk. Thank you again. Massimo @@HelpfulPhil
@@massimogammacurta8703 Hi. In Finder go to Settings, then Sidebar icon at the top. Then select the 'Locations' you want to show up. I suggest Bonjour, Connected servers and Hard Discks to show your iMac HDD's.
@@Michael-ps7ji well, according to the link page Luna/AstroPad think Ethernet is better - but keep an eye out for the soon to be released peer-to-peer connection. I'll be doing a review as soon as it is released.
@@philbinks thanks again for the fast reply! I just got a response from Astropad, "Thank you for your interest in Luna Display! We recommend choosing whichever cable type is more convenient to your setup as the speed difference between the two isn't noticeable in the majority of setups using Luna. If you have older Macs you are attempting to connect, Ethernet can be easier for them to detect for the initial connection, but that is the only difference and it usually ends up being a minor one. Keep in mind, any cable used will need to be capable of at least 10GB/s of data transfer in order to support Luna's connection between devices." I guess I'll find out!😀
You can use Luna display on a Mac to use your M1 iMac as a display. You could also use a Luna display on your M1 iMac to use a different iMac as a display.
Why couldn't you just simply use the MacOS feature that allows you to use another Mac or iPad as a secondary display wirelessly? It's built into MacOS you simply just move your cursor off the screen and it pops up on the other Mac as long as they are logged into the same iCloud device? There's no latency either
The Luna Display option allows owners of older iMac's to be used as a secondary monitor. Your feature needs Mac's of recent vintage, running Ventura Mac OS 13 or later.
Hi Phil. You are a great presenter. I still need a tad extra help. I’m going to use my iMac 27 inch as the secondary monitor and my MacBook Air as primary. Which do I plug the dongle into? The MBA or imac?
I have tried every way to connect my Macs together, but none of them worked. Then, I came across your video and just purchased the product through the link you provided! Thanks for the informative content, Phill!
Hi Phil, I watched all your videos. I took the plunge and bought a Luna for use with my late 2014 iMac 27” retina. Worked like a dream I now have my MacBook Air connected to an LG40WP94 and my iMac. It now feels like Mission Control. Thank you Phil, I never would have done it if I had not seen your videos.
is the latency really bad?
Though I'm just discovering your content, I wanted to take the time to thank you for your effort and quality. I came across Luna as an option for iPad and then thought to myself, "There HAS to be an option like this for an older iMac." I quickly scrolled through some of your other videos and I'm excited to watch some of them as well. I truly wish I had an uncle, or someone in my life like you to refer to. Simply incredible.
Thank you for your kind words. All the very best to you.
Never have I EVER viewed a RUclipsr speak in "My learning style. Also, I had the exact scenario as you explained. I have the 2013 as well. I did not want to send it to I-heaven. I had so much storage to use. Thanks so much! I will update once I've got it.
Phil you are the man! Thank you so much for this. Really appreciate the detail and effort you put into the video.
Absolute Saver! I have the exact setup with a 2013 iMAC running Catalina and 3TB Fusion Drive that I didn't want to lose. Just got a newer Mac Studio. Fantastic Video - I will get this ordered up.
is the latency really bad?
Thanks for this wonderful video...so clear and detailed.
Thank you for your informative tutorial. I was in the same situation as yourself and having watched you tutorial convinced me that this was the way to go. I have purchased a Luna Display and am really pleased with the results. Thanks again.
Brilliant. I'm thrilled with my Luna display and use it all of the time. Exciting new software update due soon too!
Although plenty of people showed how to use an old imac as second display, what u show is a company who made and app to use it with their software. I think many are going to do this as we are plenty of people with old imac intel
I was wondering this exact same thing. I have a 2017 iMac and just got a Mac studio. I am going to do this exact set up. Thank you so much!
Is it working well for you?
Thank you!!! I’ve been trying to figure out how to use my iMac like this for weeks. Apple really blew it on this but ours they want to sell a $1700 monitor vs helping customers get the most from their purchases.
IT WAS THE KEYBOARD!!! Fantastic Video - thank you! NONE of my 27 inch 2011 iMacs would connect in target display mode until I switched to the long flat wired keyboard with numeric keypad on the right. Like was mentioned in one of these helpful videos - the keyboard that came with the iMAC. Keyboard model A1243 EMC 2171. Now all four DO connect to my Macbook pro. The iMac wireless ones, Imac long wired ones with typewriter-like keys - none of these worked. Just the flat long keyboard (17 inch x 4.5 inch x less than 1/2 inch)
Phil, that’s just brilliant! Liked and subscribed too. Quick question, is it possible to also use the old macs mic and camera too? I have the same old screen as you, running Catalina and a Mac mini linked to an old Apple Cinema Display (tight Yorkshireman 😂). Many thanks indeed.
You won't be able to use your old iMac's microphone or camera whilst using it as a screen with Luna Display.
finally, someone who actually demonstrates the latency properly! Quick question, does the latency vary depending on what you are displaying/running on the screen?
I haven't really tested a variety of different applications to see if one looks to be slower than another but definitely the Luna Display secondary does have a lower frame rate than a native first screen, however I've grown to love this feature more as I've used it!
Thank you Phil. I had all but given up trying to connect my iMac late 2014 5K model with my Macbook Pro 2021. I wish Apple easily provided a second screen option. The question I have for you is, is there a benefit of selecting "connection via Thunderbolt only" compared to the Wifi option. I have a Thunderbolt cable and relevant adapaters. I'm trying to work out if it is faster?
Cable is likely to be faster (less lag - which is minuscule anyway) and more reliable than a WiFi network.
Thank you Phil for a very useful and understandable video about the Luna Display. I have just bought it and are eager to get started 😊
Thanks for the great video.
How colour accurate is the iMac display?
I am using Duet and it is unfortunately not accurate enough to do any colour work. I am hoping that Luna is a better solution and provides for greater colour accuracy.
Also, can you calibrate the second display when using Luna?
Brilliant question! So I colour calibrated my main (Luna) display ( I'm a photographer/video maker and colour management specialist!). You can't colour calibrate the Luna Secondary display, but you CAN calibrate the iMac before connecting it as the Luna Secondary, so it uses it's own ICC profile...and it works great!
For my late model 2010 iMac 27" I used a Kanex XD to allow the iMac to act as a display for a XBOX 360.
any HDMI Capture card can do that, commonly used for camera input. They don’t allow controlling a Mac though.
Nice well explained video - thanks for taking the time to share. Best Mark
Thank you for your really clear no-nonsense content! Very helpful! I would love to see how LUNA Display behaves once it is set up. Do apps always start on the primary screen and you then move them to the secondary iMac screen? Do you then continue to use the mouse of your primary, but they work on your secondary? Do you ever use the keyboard and mouse of your secondary computer again after that? Do the camera and mic on the secondary screen still operate? You say that you could use the secondary display without the primary one. How would you do that? As you can see here, I have lots of questions that go beyond the time of installation. Thanks for your help!
Apps all open on the primary Mac and you move them over to the secondary screen. The keyboard and mouse from your iMac would still be used and connected for you to login, but not used whilst using Luna display. The camera and microphone from your iMac no longer work whilst using luna display. Setting up the iMac as the main screen is a possibility, but you need a secondary screen in order to make that happen.
Great video Patrick! I am going to have the same setup.
Thanks for such a detailed video! Very well stated.
Hello Phil. Thanks for a great run-down of the Luna Display. I have the same iMac and I'm planning to pair it with a Mac Mini M2 (nothing purchased yet). I don't want to use the iMac as a secondary display, but as the only display. Could you give a hint as to launching the software and logging in when it is the primary monitor? Many thanks.
have a look at this video as it might help
ruclips.net/video/Cp2uJAVjsuE/видео.html
Thank you, Phil. This was really helpful 😊.
A simply brilliant video and well explained. I have a 27 inch 2014 imac and about to purchase the M2 mac mini. Apple informs me that I cannot use the 27 inch monitor as no target mode is now installed on these later imacs. I assume (please correct me) this gets round the problem? The other question s that it is for sale on Amzon UK at 180 pounds but available direct for 79 USD?i
Yes, this is the answer to Apple's removal of Target mode. Check my other videos on the Luna Display, as I do think it's best used along with a 'normal' monitor.
Purchasing direct using the link in the description is likely to get you the best price. You will get to a page showing delivery cost to UK too. Recently I worked out that the US$ conversion ended up a little over £100 including shipping & VAT.
Thanks Phil, Ordered it yesterday and your conversion was spot on at 104 GBP. One final question, the monitor as primary - van that be ant type?@@HelpfulPhil
@@kelvinyoungs6110 don't quite know exactly what you meant with your misstyping, but yes your Primary monitor can be anything, but it's nice to have one which is similar in size and ratio to your iMac.
Thanks, Phill, luna has dispatched the dongle and my new iMac mini arrives in two weeks. I promise this will be last question - what cable will I require to connect to Imac from the Imac mini please as I am unable to use the router set-up that you have used.
@@kelvinyoungs6110 you can directly connect the 2 Mac's with either an Ethernet cable, or USB-C (from your MacMini) to USB-A cable (to your iMac).
Can you share your lighting setup.There is no reflection on your glasses 🙂
I have 2 ring lights plus a window to my left (your right). Ring light 1 is 45˚ above and right; Ring light 2, left, is lower than my chin and reflected off a white wall. Hope that helps.
Due to the lack of space in my mini office, I wondered about the accessibility of just using the Mac Mini with my old 2017 Imac 27" being the main and only monitor.
Yes you can do it using headless mode. The only proviso is that there is a slower screen refresh vs a dedicated monitor, so tasks like video editing should be done on a dedicated monitor whilst light work and panels can reside on your Luna display/iMac.
Thank you .@@HelpfulPhil
I have the awesome 5K 27" that's older I just ungraded to 14" MBP fully loaded but miss my big screen 😞
A perfect case to use Luna for the iMac 27" screen with your new MBP.
My question
If I have a “Main” Mac and a “Old” Mac each connected via Ethernet to my Router and I use Luna Display, can I see and use both Macs as fully functioning Macs or is the “Old” Mac only accessible as a file sharing Mac and Display
What I am after is being able to use my mouse and keyboard on both Macs and each Mac operates as a fully functional computer, not solely as an extended monitor with file sharing, if that makes any sense😊
Thank you for the video, really well done
The only way you would be able to do that is to keep turning Luna Display off to resume full iMac functionality - not really very practical!
I am not sure I understand this....Can I connect my M! Mac mini to my 2017 iMac using Luna?....Can the iMac serve as a monitor for the Mac mini? Thanks for a great video...
Yes, using Luna Display you can use the iMac as a monitor for your M1 MacMini. It depends upon the apps you're using as to whether you would prefer to have a directly connected Monitor and use the iMac as a secondary as shown in this video. You would need a monitor temporarily connected to the MacMini to set-up Luna Display if the iMac is going to be your only monitor.
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you, I will look further into this.
Thanks for this, great video! Out of curiosity, what's the name of the "main screen/monitor" you're using for the Mac Studio?
I happen to be using a Dell 2722DE. I reviewed it here ruclips.net/video/0J77Dl_40u0/видео.html
I have the same question
@@dwightsbeetfarms3611 answer above!
HI I have a wacom Cintiq attached to my 27inch imac which works fine. MY IMac is getting old as its 2014 and I was waing to see whether apple would update it with e the new M! ultra.
So I also have LUna display which I tend not to use as I can easily transfer wacom image to imac and vice versa.
This is exactly what I was looking to do. Thank you! Have you tried it over wifi? I do not have a router by my Mac. Looking to use my 2015 iMac as secondary screen with brand new Mac studio and Studio display.
so my router is next to my Macs. If you have a solid wifi signal in your office then it should be ideal. Tip: Luna are looking at providing a direct link Mac to Mac in their next update.
will this work with my iMac end 2015, also ? it's a 27" 5K Retina 🙂
Yes. Luna Display supports 5K screens.
Thanks for the good video! 🙏
I was wondering how I could connect a macbook pro m2 laptop to a similar imac, what do you have when the macbook doesn't have an ethernet port?
I presume you mean to share the display. You don't need Ethernet with Luna display, you can use WiFi or peer-to-peer between the Macs.
Thanks once again for your excellent tutorial. Following watching this I purchased The Luna display and following your directions it works Great. I am connecting my secondary screen to my Mac mini via wi-fi am considering your option of ethernet Mac to Mac But I can only do this by using the two ethernet splitters, one at the router and one from the ethernet socket. any advice or suggestions please. many thanks.
Thanks Steve, yes - use a Switch as shown in my video here..
ruclips.net/video/noKIJhNYFhE/видео.htmlsi=3UlSAACRHoVwVraX&t=278
Phil this is a great video. I have a 2011 iMac and a 2020 iMac (new to me). The 2011 has all of my files on it and music on it. Q-1 - Will I be able to use iTunes on the 2011 if I use the 2020 iMac as my primary? Q-1 Will I have to transfer all data to the 2020 iMac prior to using Luna?
Thanks for the comment. A1. you won't be able to launch any apps from your 2011 iMac whilst using Luna Display Secondary as it covers all other apps beneath it. You can use Apple Music on your 2020 iMac importing your iTunes music library tracks which remain on you 2011 iMac, as the 2011 becomes a storage device.
Thanks!! It's helpful for me :)
If the secondary machine has a usb keyboard or mouse connected will it be usable on the primary for control?
Yes, but you are likely to find it has limited additional functionality, such as swiping on Magic mouse.
Will my 2015 27" 5K iMac will work with this? Now that I have an M3 notebook pro max I wanna connect that to my iMac.
Yes.
Can I still use universal control from MacBook to iPad while MacBook is connected to Old iMac 27inches 5k with Luna display? I am thinking to purchase Luna. Thank you for your content. Helpful.
Yes, you can still use Universal Control in the way you describe.
Thanks Phil! Mind sharing what dell model are you using with the mac mini?
yes...ruclips.net/video/0J77Dl_40u0/видео.htmlsi=bFeAvHlyYti-sKiR
Hi! Great video. I'm looking to use an iMac 27" 2019 Intel chip computer's monitor as the PRIMARY and single monitor for a new Mac Studio M2. Luna looks like it will do that. And I'd use Ethernet connections, not WiFi. Before I order Luna, can you tell me if I need another "primary" monitor (iPad, Macbook Pro) for the Studio all the time - or just the initial set up? - or can I configure the iMac 2019 monitor as the PRIMARY monitor for the Studio and only use that pair? And should I need to move all the computer software and content to the Studio and leave the iMac as only the sole monitor for the Studio? Thank you.
You will need a second monitor for the set-up of Luna Display but then you can use the iMac as the only/primary monitor in what is called Headless mode.
You can leave software on the iMac but you won't be able to use it whilst using Luna Display. Luna Display (Secondary)runs in the forground of the iMac preventing use of any other app. However you can still access the hard drive of your iMac (via the Finder on the Mac Studio) for storage purposes.
Thank you for the great video.
Would it be possible to use an M1 iMac as a main monitor for my M2 MacBook Air? I would like to be able to utilize the iMac's microphone, webcam and USB ports while having my laptop's lid closed on my desk.
Cheers
You won't be able to use the iMac's microphone or webcam using Luna Display. You would be able to use the USB ports for external drives. I suggest you try apple's screen sharing features to see if that suits your needs. See ruclips.net/video/NZkuBpLlJVQ/видео.html
@@HelpfulPhil thank you!
@@HelpfulPhilsince you were kind enough to answer, could you tell the benefits of using Luna over shared screen? Is it mostly having access to more files and using the iMac’s hardware to perform tasks?
@@roeescharf104 Luna Display is ideal for owners of older iMacs which don't naturally have the ability to be used as external monitors. Luna Display and Apple Screen sharing would offer very similar features in your case, with a newer M-series iMac.
Great instruction video. I just picked up a fully decked out Mac Studio for video editing (M2 ultra, 192gig ram) and looking to monitor my old 2017 iMac. Question is do I just connect an Ethernet cord from the IMac to the Mac Studio? Or do I need to run it into a router? Curious to how that works as I want to also hardwire Ethernet for internet on the Mac Studio. My mac Studio arrives later today! Can’t wait
Use Ethernet cable into a Router from both the Mac Studio and iMac, so they're on the same network with Internet access etc
@@HelpfulPhil ohhh got it. Thanks! Will do!
@@HelpfulPhil also should I get the Luna mini display port (only for Mac) or usb-c
@@hopeforthefuturesg your new Mac doesn’t have Mini Display Port
@@HelpfulPhil I noticed that when I received. 😂 thanks for all your help!
I am upgrading my 2015 iMac with a new 2023 M3 iMac. I will be using a Luna Display dongle to share the screens as per the demonstration in the video. I understand that I will still e able to access the 1 Terabite storage on the 2015 iMac, but was wondering if I will be able to access one or more portable hard drives that are currently used with the 2015 iMac and are connected via USB A ports. The alternative is to get a USB C hub with multiple USB A ports an d plug that into the new iMac. Thanks.
You will be able to access external drives connected to your iMac, but it would be easier & more efficient to use an external USB hub with your new Mac.
Thanks for sharing this Phil. I am in the same shoes as you with an iMac from 2013...
Do you know if Luna Display works as "Primary" only display to your old imac from your new mac studio (without a physical external display connected on the mac studio that is)? I wanna get an imac mini without display and simply just re-use the imac 27" display as primary display.
You can do this, it's called Headless mode; but you'd need to connect some sort of display to the Mac Mini first in order to set it up. ..using the iMac as a secondary display for all of its benefits in productivity and screen real estate is what I think exemplifies the real benefit of the Luna Display.
Sounds interesting, I am in the same boat, I have an awesome 2015 build iMac 27 that can only now be upgraded to Ventura and that would be its last OS. I am looking at a new Mac but have wondered what can I do with my current 27 iMac. So a few questions. Q-01 If say I have a Mac Studio and Studio Display and purchase Luna and link up both computers, say for ex. I open Pages app on the Mac Studio and create a document and now want to save it to the 27 iMac drive, does the Mac Studio recognize in the Finder that 27 iMac drive? Q-02 Another question: If I open up Photoshop on the Mac Studio, can I move the editing palette, Layers, History etc. to the 27 iMac and have the image remain on the Mac Studio monitor; I have a two monitor system now in which I do this? Q-03 Can you use in your situation the Mac Studio unit as a separate Mac the same time you use the 27 iMac as a separate unit while still in Luna mode? Last question: Is there anything you cannot do? PS: so glad there is a solution, I cannot see trashing my 27 iMac, 32gb ram iCore 7 unit.
A1: Yes you can still see your iMac HDD in the Finder, just as you can when running without Luna, so you can also save files to it.
A2: Yes.
A3: No. Luna Secondary is an app that completely takes over your iMac screen so you can't use it for any other applications.
A4: You still can't get Luna to make the Tea!
So, how is this any different from using the iMac in target mode which doesn't require anything other than a cable? The new M1 mini allows for a single thunderbolt connection which I use for a late 2012 iMac and a second monitor through an HDMI cable. I am pretty sure the Studio allow for at least this and possibly even a third monitor. Why the need for LUNA?
This shows about using the iMac as a monitor, you can also access the HDD's over the network.
does it work with 2013 iMac and 2020 Macbook M1? Thanks for the sharing.
Yes.
@@HelpfulPhil did you try or just opinion?
@@kempes89 I have the 2013 iMac. It works with all M series Mac's.
I now have my system working flawlessly except cant make use of the ports on the imac. I have 2019 iMac, Thunderbolt cable, Mac mini M2 connected to Samsung monitor. I rely totally on the iMac for display and barely use the Samsung monitor. Please how can I use the ports on the iMac?
You can use the ports on the iMac for powering devices e.g. iPad's & iPhones. You can connect external drives which you can then access from your Finder>Network items
Is there a mode to mirror (as opposed to extend) the primary display, onto the secondary display (the older iMac)?
Yes, it's an easy selection in the Luna Display preferences, or simply do it in the Mac System settings.
hanks a lot for this excellent video! Is there also a way for using "old" iMac (late 2015, running Monterey) as a secondary display for iPad Pro 5th generation?
Nope!
Lovely tutorial, thank you for the clarity, and for speaking slowly enough that I could follow you! A question about using features of the Old iMac when your main computer is the Mac Studio. In order to use the HDD or, say, the webcam, would you not have to have a second keyboard and mouse, in addition to the ones you use for the Mac Studio?
I know that if *both* computers are running Ventura you can move your mouse between screens and actually run the iMac with your existing keyboard and mouse; but that requires both systems to be running Ventura, and the whole point here is to make use of an old iMac which cannot run the newer OSes.
Can you clarify?
Great questions. The easiest way to proceed is to use USB wired Keyboard and mouse (I only have a mouse connected to wake the iMac, as I use a WiFi program to execute key commands from my iPad - ruclips.net/video/Nxz1BR2BS9o/видео.htmlsi=WKRSaQS13rQLywKL).
Also, when using Luna Display you cannot use your iMac's Facetime camera or other programs. Luna display is the only app which can run on your iMac, until you quit Luna Display, in which case your iMac returns to its native use, but stops being a 2ndary display.
Thank you for the video! So if I am an animator/illustrator and want to use my 2017 iMac as a primary display for my new MacBookPro, would you not recommend it? Not fast enough?
I recommend trying it to see if the response is fast enough for you. Also Luna display would open up other opportunities as a 2nd monitor, and with iPad for illustration etc, even if it doesn’t match your needs as a primary monitor.
Hi Just what I am looking for. You mentioned that you can still use your old Mac (secondary screen) hard drive. do you use it from you key board connected to the main monitor ? Does finder show up the secondary screen hard drive? Cheers
watch this video for how to access your files on your old iMac.
ruclips.net/video/QBYDYuvWl7o/видео.html
@@HelpfulPhil That was exactly what I was hoping for, thank you Phil. One last thing. Have you compared Luna with duet ? if so would love to here your thoughts. Thanks again if I buy I'll definitely click through on your link.
@@GrahamGphotoParker I haven't tried Duet but I know people who have and they are paying a regular subscription and there is some weird Internet connection requirement which apparently slows it down sometimes.
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you for you help and advice. I'll definitely be buying Luna for my 27" 5K iMac that is sitting on my desk gathering dust to my Mac Studio Cheers Again
Hi Phil, thanks for the video - I have ordered the Mac studio customised version, and also I do have Asus pro art display - I also have an iMac M1 - Most of our work flow is video editing - would you consider Luna display to Use on your iMac for video editing?
Yes as a secondary display to your main Pro Art display. Technically you use the Luna Display (hardware dongle) on the Mac Studio.
Is there a way of having an older mac as a secondary monitor AND running two different OS on both machines? Thanks!
Nope! technically Luna Display is doing this, it's just that the Luna Display secondary app takes over the monitor preventing you from processing any other requests on the secondary Mac.
Hi Phil, Thanks for the very informative vid. Question: I'd like to use my late 2013 iMac (w/Catalina) as my main monitor for a Mac Studio, and use my existing Dell 1920 x 1080 monitor as a secondary one. Can I do that with LUNA Display? Thank you!
Absolutely 👍🏼
Hi Phil, thanks for a helpful video! I am in the position where I have used my trusty iMac 5k (late 2014) as my main computer for almost ten years and have now just upgraded my old unibody MacBook Pro (2012) to a MacBook Pro 14 inch M1 Pro. Here's my question. Will LUNA display allow me to use my old iMac as a Monitor (Macbook in Clamshell)? Also it would great if I was able to plug the LUNA display dongle into a Caldigit TS4 so when I plug my Macbook in using Thunderbolt it's connected. Any idea if this will work? Cheers Tim
Luna will certainly allow you to use your old iMac as a monitor, the 5K should look great. I haven't tried clamshell mode but I don't see why it wouldn’t work! A Caldigit TS4 has USB4-Thunderbolt ports they should work (using the USB-C Luna display), so long as you're connecting the MBP to the TB4 charging port.
Excellent video - Any real world experience running video/photo editing on M1/M2 with a Luna display connected to an iMac Retina 5k 2015 and above?
I do both photo and video editing with Luna, it's just a 2K screen on my old 2013 model though.
Hi Phil, great video and just what I was looking for. I am planning to buy an M2 Mac Mini, do you know if this method definitely works with the M2?
Absolutely, yes.
Dear Phil,
I wanted to express my gratitude for the incredibly informative video you shared. I'm curious to know if Luna has the capability to sufficiently power a 5K iMac when connected to a Mac Studio M2 Max. Specifically, I'm interested in its potential for video editing purposes. However, I have a hunch that achieving a 5K resolution at 60hz might prove to be a challenge, regardless of our attempts.
Thank you once again for your valuable insights.
Best regards,
...sounds like you've tried it. If you haven't Luna supports 5K and the M2 Mac's are capable of delivering but perhaps the 60Hz is not reliable. I can edit video on my Luna based iMac but need to make sure that no other video related apps are running, or I get stuttering.
This is great thank you. I'm looking to buy the same computer as you have and using my 27" 2011 iMac. I need for video editing did you say that's a problem? You mentioned it's about $150 but here in the Sates it shows as around $50; hope we're talking about the same product.
I do lots of video editing but use my main monitor for programme editing, my iMac is my secondary monitor where I store toolbars etc. You can use iMac for main screen but its response speed is reliant on your connection between the two computers. Prices change 👍🏼
Thanks for your reply.@@HelpfulPhil
cheers Phil
Hi there! I have a 2011 high sierra imac. is it possible to conect it with the new macbook air 15" ? with luna display? how can i do it? heeeelp Thank u in advance!
can it work wired to reduce the latency?
highly recommend using Ethernet cable between both Mac's to your router. If Ethernet is not possible you may be a way to use USB-C/Thunderbolt cable, but my Mac is so old that this is not possible as it has no USB-C ports.
Can you use Ethernet cable without a router? Is it possible to just connect both computers with the same Ethernet cable? @@HelpfulPhil
I am in exactly the same situation that you found yourself in. My iMac is from 2015 running Big Sur and does not have Target Display mode. I have been told by Apple that there is no way to connect it to the Mac Studio (and studio display) that i have coming in a couple of weeks. It seems such a shameful waste to bin it as it would make perfect secondary display; it's in perfect condition/working order - just no longer updatable and not powerful enough to run the apps I want to use for photography. Would the Luna setup you've described work in my situation?
Absolutely yes! Watch my other videos to answer Luna Display general questions. I am now using an iMac 2015 27" 5K as a screen for my M1 Mac Studio. Follow the link to buy.
I was just at an Apple Store to see the Mini and the Studio in person, and 'genius' bar person said the same thing - target display is long dead. I'd already researched Luna Display, but they didn't know about that. I think they are far more motivated to sell us a new 27" Studio Display which costs nearly as much as what I paid for the entire iMac in 2017. That's great, but there's no actual cpu, and it's not even bigger!
Can I use this to make my mid-2010 iMac serve as a second display for my 2020 iMac?
Yes. If one of your Thunderbolt ports available for the Luna Display dongle use that.
Great video, Phil. Thanks for going into such detail. I'm in a very similar boat: would love to use my 2017 5k iMac as a secondary display with my M1 MBP and Luna Display seems to be the best (i.e. only) viable option here. I do worry about how the lag will affect my ability to edit video. However, from what I've been able to find online it's worth a go at least!
I would say go for it. I have been editing on the Luna secondary (iMac) and it is fine as many editing actions are not affected by the fraction of a second delay, indeed I became blissfully unaware as you delve into the process.
@@HelpfulPhil great to hear and enough said: purchase made!
@@oliverwhone hey, any update about your LUNA display on editing video? is the lag affecting the video editing process?
Our setup is very similar (iMac 2017 & MBP M1). thnks
@@rakamahendra7649 hmmmm bit of a mixed bag when I'm being honest. Certainly not overjoyed with it. Connecting over wifi is a bit too laggy. Have used a connection via USB-C, which is better. Full thunderbolt cable would most likely yield even better results. However, this also means you lose 2 of your 3 ports on the MBP...which is manageable, but not ideal. I'll give it a 75% rating...when really I wanted it somewhere around 95% for perfect image quality / convenience / lag.
@@oliverwhone What is the image quality like? I have Duet, but i am not happy with the colour accuracy i see compared to my MBP M1Max and considering Luna, but if it is not colour accurate there is no real point.
Great presentation Phil:), I'm in same boat (2014 late model Imac), Set up question, how did you set up your password on your old MAC, so u just need your mouse to open up old IMAC? I'd like to do the same so I don't need two keyboards. Deciding between the new Studio or Mini (would love a new 27" IMAC , but don't think its in the works)
I have heard that a new 27" iMac is in the works, but who knows when! You can go into settings and remove the need for a Password, but I use a Remote Keyboard iOS application on my iPad and programmed a button to type my password! Here's my video on that application. ruclips.net/video/8SE08Oc1Zco/видео.html
Can be configured to use windows machine. Like... use mac as a display for windows?
Yes. Follow the link in the description; then navigate to help.astropad.com/article/157-system-requirements to ensure compatibility.
Will this work with a 21.5" iMac 2010?
check this link for compatibility bit.ly/LunaSystemRequirements
Will this work on 27inch late 2009?
Check compatibility here: help.astropad.com/article/157-system-requirements?sca_ref=3948717.ToH2p0eo7q
Is it possible to use the 2014 imac 27 as the primary monitor of a mac mini m2?
It certainly is possible. It is called 'Headless mode'. You may find a slight delay compared to a directly connected monitor, which may affect your experience if video editing, otherwise in my opinion it's perfect.
Note: you will need to initially connect a monitor in order to set up a single iMac as a screen.
Really useful video thank you! Is there any reason why I can't use the iMac as my primary display? My set up could be my poorer quality screen (hp that I just use for emails etc) as my actual primary, I'd put it off to the right though and I'd actually use the iMac screen to work in... does that make sense? Once set up would that run smoothly enough day to day? Does the screen calibration of the iMac remain the same or would it copy the poorer quality screen?
You can IMHO easily use your iMac as the main screen. You may experience a slight (milliseconds) delay, but you'd quickly become oblivious to it, plus there are a new connection options to try, including Peer-to-peer to see which is best in your set-up. I'm still using Ethernet connection for both Macs'. Screen calibration profile remains in place on your iMac.
@@HelpfulPhil Thanks for coming back to me. I'll bite the bullet and give it a go. It's probably a little faffy but I'll get used to it. I much prefer the cost saving just now and re-purposing the iMac will be great. Fingers crossed. Thank you
I have imac 5k retina 2015, any wayto use it as a monitor for a laptop ?
Yes. If you mean a MacBook then it is likely to support your 5K iMac, otherwise check the output specs of your laptop port (USB-C; Display Port or HDMI) relating to that resolution, even then it will work, but at a lower resolution.
Hi Phil: Can I open a file stored in either of my secondary monitor or primary monitor while in luna display?
Absolutely yes. You can access your iMac HDD as a network storage.
Hello, I recently bought this monitor and the letters are blurred, do you have this problem too? how do you have it connected to your mac studio? Thank you!
Hi Phil,
Very interesting tutorial.
I have a 2023 MacBook Pro running Ventura 13.6.4, and a 2008 iMac computer partitioned with snow leopard on one partition to connect to older software and an older printer which all still works; and the other partition upgraded to El Capitan.
I am trying to see if this set-up will work with a luna display dongle before purchasing it, and to see if I can use the 2008 iMac as a second screen as it is bigger for the purpose of viewing surface pattern designs.
I have downloaded the primary luna app onto the macbook pro and that launches, but is requesting the Luna Display dongle to continue. My issue is that I have downloaded the secondary luna app onto the macbook pro and then copied it over to the iMac, but the secondary luna app will not launch at all. There are error messages, and advice to update both the operating system which I have within el capitan, and the app which is already up to date.
Am I doing anything wrong here, as I checked and searches on the internet assure me that this set up should allow me to use the 2008 iMac as a second screen.
Any hope?
Disappointed.
Pam Terry
I think your iMac is too old for the Luna Display option. Take a look at these specs to check.
help.astropad.com/article/157-system-requirements?sca_ref=3948717.ToH2p0eo7q
@@HelpfulPhil
I have spent a lot of time on this problem, and can only get the MacBook to work with Side car alongside the iPad Pro.Your link tells me that my old iMac is too old it would need to be 2009 as a minimum to work running High Sierra. I would need to upgrade all of the older equipment at the time; I think which wouldn't be affordable for me just now. Could you suggest a screen 27" that would work with my macbook pro and IPad Pro and Officejet printer? Thanks, Pam Terry
@@pamterry8891 you could try one of these: ruclips.net/video/0J77Dl_40u0/видео.html
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you Phil, it does seem that if I need a larger screen for Surface Pattern Designs then I could go with this very good Dell screen you have suggested; would I still require the Luna Display hardware and apps for primary and secondary display, or could I just plug the Macbook Pro (2023) into the Dell display via a USB-C/A cable?
@@pamterry8891 Luna Display is only needed for using iMac as a second screen. A new Dell screen will include the correct cable (USB-C to USB-C)
Hi Phil,
Thanks for posting this very helpful video. I recently purchased a brand new M2 Mac mini and would like to use my Apple iMac 27" late 2015 as the main display but I am in two-minds at the moment. On the one hand, I am thinking of buying an Apple Cinema Thunderbolt display and using it as the main display (might sell my iMac in that case though it would be a shame coz it is in brilliant condition). On the other hand, I'm considering using Luna Display connected via Thunderbolt with the Mac mini. I do not have any heavy use such as video editing. Just visual analysis of videos (research) and other mundane tasks such as Internet browsing and word processing. Would really appreciate your advice as that will help me get out of this quandary I'm facing at the moment. Many thanks.
You'll love the M2 Mac mini, and if you do go for more powerful requirements it will be a very capable machine. Using Luna Display will allow you to keep your iMac and continue using programs which may not be compatible with the latest Sonoma OS as well as continuing to utilize the hard drive in the iMac as a storage drive. You will need a second monitor in order to set up Luna Display in the first place but then can use your iMac as the main screen in what they call Headless mode.
I wonder if this application could work. I do have my main 27-inch iMac 2015 connected to a second monitor Apple LED Cinema Display 27 Inch true thunderbolt. My second monitor is connected true thunderbolt cable to my main computer iMac. I'm in the proses to buy the New Mac Studio M2 Max and then use the second monitor LED Cinema display as a main display with the Mac Studio, of course I probably need to buy and adapter thunderbolt 2 to thunderbolt 4 connector and use it as a main monitor with Mac Studio. Now the question is, if Luna Display adapter will let me do daisy change true Appe LED Cinema Display with thunderbolt cable from my main monitor and to iMac in order to get it work. Luna Display give you the option to connect via Wi-Fi, Ethernet or Thunderbolt. I wander if I could do daisy chain true thunderbolt instead of using Ethernet. I appreciate any help and thank you for your reply, you got a new subscriber.
So the long answer to a long build up is this: You don't need to daisy chain. You just need Luna display, follow the link in the description, and connect to the iMac via whatever option you prefer, USB-C to USB-A, Ethernet or WiFi. This should then appear as a second monitor.
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you for your reply Phill appreciated a lot.
I purchased the LUNA and it's working brilliantly to add my old iMac as a 2nd display with my newer Mac Mini. I'm connecting via USB-C/Thunderbolt and I'm wondering if it's possible to access the harddrive of my iMac (which is my EXTENDED display)? I don't see the drive so I'm guessing it's not possible.
Hi Mike, it's totally possible. Watch this video for the set-up for both file and screen sharing.ruclips.net/video/NZkuBpLlJVQ/видео.html
Hi Phil, Just wondering if having a Macbook Pro M1 Max can be display in iMac 2012 5k with Luna?
Yes. By the way the first 5K iMac was released 2014.
Hello there, I'd like to know if I can use Luna to have my old 2013 iMac as my main screen for a new Mac Studio. I'm planning to get the Mac Studio M1 Max, but it would be of great help if I can save some money not buying a display yet.
You certainly can, it's called Headless mode. However, you will need to have a separate display connected for setting it up!
Alright!! Thank you very much!!@@HelpfulPhil
How is yours so fast? Are you on wifi? I was reading reviews and everyone said you'd have to connect your old and new with an ethernet cable or it would lag really badly. I was put off from buying it because of those reviews. Wanted to get it for my M2 Mac mini to use on a really old 2013 imac (still working beautifully, has a thunderport).
Mine is fast, both my Mac's are connected to the same Router via Ethernet see 10min into this video. Even using WiFi the responsiveness is fast, but relies on a stable, fast WiFi network. I prefer the confidence of a cable as my router has an unreliable WiFi service.
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you for the reply! When I buy it I'll use your link :)
Hi Phil, thanks for sharing your knowledge about lunadisplay. It is great to find solutions to your problem. I am thinking on buy it one. I need it because I have a macbookpro from 2020 and I broke the screen. Now I am working with my tv as a monitor, but I have an old imac, 21,5" screen and it is from 2015. Now this imac runs very slow, but my children use it as a tv monitor, and it is incredible how well they can watch movies. Anyway I wonder if I connect my macbook pro through luna display to my imac, when I work using my macbookpro but throug the imac screen, will the apps from macbook pro run as fast as they run without the imac screen. I hope my question is crear to you. Thanks in advance.
You'll experience a slight millisecond delay, but will get used to it very quickly.
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you so much for your quick response!!!! Ok, now I have all the information to buy it. As I told you, I really appreciate your video, I've been looking for a solution two weeks now. WOW!!!! thanks thanks thanks. I will share how well it works.
@@HelpfulPhil Hi Phil, I've already got the luna display, and I installed as you told us in the video. Now I can access to my broken screen macbook pro and I can also use my imac 2015 as a monitor. GREAT!!!!! Thank you so so much. I was looking for using my imac as a monitor for almost 3 years.
@@MyriamDiJi brilliant!
Very helpful video, thanks for posting it. I have some questions. I have a Late 2015 iMac with Thunderbolt 2 ports. I am planning to get a 2023 Mac Studio M2 with Thunderbolt 4 (I think) ports and a Benq SW321C for a monitor. I like the idea of using the Luna display system to use the iMac for a second display but I also wanted to make the iMac into a server.
My first question is can I connect the iMac and the Studio using some kind of Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 4 connection? Is there such an adapter or series of adapters that does this? The Thunderbolt 2 is also called a Mini Display Port, maybe something like that? Maybe there is a better way to connect the two computers for the purposes of a second display with the Luna setup.
The second question has to do with turning the iMac into a Server to use for Caching and other things, but mainly for Caching. Can I do this and still use it as a second display?
Your iMac is not made with Server level properties so not really...but, you can simply access the HDD of the iMac and use it for sharing, saving files etc as it appears as a networked device. Luna Display allows connecting the 2 Mac's via Ethernet (through your router), via WiFi, or even peer-to-peer, you can use thunderbolt/USB-C but may need a converter for the old iMac. Try it without first.
I've been looking for a TB2 to TB4 cable, MDP to USB-C, but it does not appear to be readily available. The only thing I've found is an adapter made by Apple that supports 2 way connections, and being Apple is relatively expensive. Not every cable will work, in fact most don't. Thunderbolt is high speed and needs cables and connectors that meet the spec and those Chinese adapters don't, an ordinary USB-C cable may not either.
I'm looking to do the same thing you are, late 2015 iMac and in my case an M2 Mini. I may wait a little longer though, maybe when the M3 Mini comes out. The iMac still meets my needs, it's just getting old.
Also a question, if the thunderbolt connection is made and is reliable will data also transfer over it? Or will it be dedicated to the Luna video? I have gigabit wifi but TB is 20gb on my iMac and 40gb on the Mini so much faster.
to answer your question, the USB-c/TB cable is only providing a video link between the two machines, made possible by Luna Display. Interchanging and sharing files from each of the HDD's is possible over your standard network.@@bklyncyclist
@@HelpfulPhil The Apple website says this: "The ports allow data transfer, video output, and charging through the same cable." but does not say it will do it simultaneously. I'll just have to try it when I have everything by turning the wifi off and see if it recognizes the hard drive on my iMac while on the video. My guess is that if it does allow it the video will lag while the transfer is happening. My thought is that the cheap Mini has 256gb SSD but my iMac has a 2tb Fusion drive that is still only at about 350gb used. I would use that more for archival.
Hi super video. Do you think i can use the luna display with my new mac book air 2022 M2 chip? I want to use my old iMac 2012 (Mac Os Catalina) like a secondary screen. Thank you
So long as your MBAir has a Thunderbolt port available it will work.
@@philbinks Thank you very much
Hello, if I buy LUNA and connected my macbook with imac 5k 2017, the resolution will be 5k or less?
if your MacBook supports 5k, then 5k it is
@@HelpfulPhil thanks for answer, I use Macbook pro m1, today I have tried use Airplay with Thunderbolt 3, don't know how but via Thunderbolt Airplay works better, but it is not the quality that I have in my iMac, now I chose to try LUNA or capture card, how do you think, what better?
@@Ihorosovyk I don't understand what you mean by Thunderbolt Airplay?...anyway, I also don't know recognise using a 'Capture Card', this usually that means for HDMI but your iMac can't accept HDMI and it won't be 5K either?! so your best bet is to use Luna with Ethernet connection as shown in the video.
I have a MacBook Pro, I connected it to the monitor/screen BenQ, that was easy to do.. but I also have an iMac (late 2015) and I would like to use it as a 3rd screen. What I mean is.. that the iMac is also connected with the Macbook Pro and the BenQ monitor/screen ... is this possible
That depends on your MBP model. If its specifications allow for 2+ monitors, plus you have a USB-C/Thunderbolt port available you should be good. Check Apples website for your MBP display options
@@HelpfulPhil I will give it a try
Can you add an additional external monitor with the 2 macs?
..depends on the specs of your Mac, if it can support 3 (or more) monitors.
you rule!!
Can you connect a Mac mini to a 2015 IMac as the main screen? Thank you
Yes, so long as your Mac Mini has a video enabled port (HDMI or Thunderbolt ports) as described in the video. You'd need a separate external monitor first though to set-up the connection.
@@HelpfulPhil My Mac mini M2 is the latest one released by Apple. I have a TV in the living room, but far from the IMac, and then I have a small monitor. Do you mean that once the configuration is done, I could already use the main screen IMac of the Mac Mini?
If anyone know..
I am trying to connect a MacBook Pro M3 to my old 2013 iMac as a monitor and hard disk.
I got the Luna usb C connectors and I am using a ethernet connection. I can't see my hard disk or desktop of the secondary monitor, been trying to do this for a while now but I can't connect.
I am running Sonoma on my MacBook Pro and Catalina on my iMac.
Additionally even when I use my iMac as a primary monitor all the shortcuts of Photoshop won't work(they do work on each computer when not connected to each other.
Thank you
Massimo
To access your files which are on the iMac, simply go to your Finder and select Network, then select the HDD of the iMac. In the future you should see the path to your iMac Name next time you go to the Finder for even easier access.
Maybe the shortcuts are not working because of the Keyboard, make sure your using the keyboard linked to the MBP M3.
Thank you Phil, yes it was the Keyboard for the shortcut , As far as the finder/network is concerned I can't see anything there, are these hidden files by any chance.
It doesn't see to share my hard disk.
Thank you again.
Massimo
@@HelpfulPhil
@@massimogammacurta8703 Hi. In Finder go to Settings, then Sidebar icon at the top. Then select the 'Locations' you want to show up. I suggest Bonjour, Connected servers and Hard Discks to show your iMac HDD's.
@@HelpfulPhil Thank you Phil, it doesn't work , I have an iMac 2013 with a 2TB ssd.
@@massimogammacurta8703 make sure you are sharing your iMac files and folders in the iMac settings/preferences.
Thanks for this video. Does Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt work as well as ethernet to ethernet? Thanks
Yep! Here's the link - help.astropad.com/article/154-usb-ethernet-connection
@@HelpfulPhil thanks! but which connection is better?
@@Michael-ps7ji well, according to the link page Luna/AstroPad think Ethernet is better - but keep an eye out for the soon to be released peer-to-peer connection. I'll be doing a review as soon as it is released.
@@philbinks thanks again for the fast reply! I just got a response from Astropad,
"Thank you for your interest in Luna Display!
We recommend choosing whichever cable type is more convenient to your setup as the speed difference between the two isn't noticeable in the majority of setups using Luna. If you have older Macs you are attempting to connect, Ethernet can be easier for them to detect for the initial connection, but that is the only difference and it usually ends up being a minor one.
Keep in mind, any cable used will need to be capable of at least 10GB/s of data transfer in order to support Luna's connection between devices."
I guess I'll find out!😀
Does this work with the 2021 M1 iMacs?
You can use Luna display on a Mac to use your M1 iMac as a display. You could also use a Luna display on your M1 iMac to use a different iMac as a display.
@@HelpfulPhilcould you make a video demonstrating this?
Why couldn't you just simply use the MacOS feature that allows you to use another Mac or iPad as a secondary display wirelessly? It's built into MacOS you simply just move your cursor off the screen and it pops up on the other Mac as long as they are logged into the same iCloud device? There's no latency either
The Luna Display option allows owners of older iMac's to be used as a secondary monitor.
Your feature needs Mac's of recent vintage, running Ventura Mac OS 13 or later.
Why aren't you just called Helphil? (Says Becca)
that makes it sound like I need help! It's a play on helpful - and fulfill.
This is just for idiots. Costs 130€ in the EU. For 94€ you get a 24" benq monitor which is faster, bigger and easier to use.
I think you’ve missed the point. This solution is for people who want to keep their iMac operational as a second screen.
Hi Phil. You are a great presenter. I still need a tad extra help. I’m going to use my iMac 27 inch as the secondary monitor and my MacBook Air as primary. Which do I plug the dongle into? The MBA or imac?