using a MB/MBP closed

zenke · Post by **zenke** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 1:39 pm

I know this topic has been covered somewhere but I can't find it. - sorry
I am wondering if it is possible to use a Mac laptop closed with screens plugged in and also with all USB/Firewire working.
This would save me getting another machine for the studio and let me spend more on the Laptop.

Anyadvise very welcome

Thansk
z

furrybum · Post by **furrybum** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 2:10 pm

why do you want to close it? Why not split your work across both screens. That's what I do and it's made life a lot easier

doc holiday · Post by **doc holiday** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 2:15 pm

with my powerbook. I can simply hook up a monitor and keyboard. Then it will run with the lid shut.

sparklepuff · Post by **sparklepuff** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 2:35 pm

zenke · Post by **zenke** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 2:53 pm

furrybum wrote:why do you want to close it? Why not split your work across both screens. That's what I do and it's made life a lot easier

Well the idea is to get two wide screens and then hook up the laptop but have that closed and out of the way. then use a wireless keyboard and mouse. I also do video and so the two wide screens will be good
So people seem to say that it just works. The machine doesnt go into standby mode ?

Cheers
z

glasvegas · Post by **glasvegas** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 2:59 pm

it's possible if you have a mouse and keyboard (either bluetooth or usb) connected.
how are you planning on running two screens, do you have a second video card?

zenke · Post by **zenke** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 3:19 pm

glasvegas wrote:it's possible if you have a mouse and keyboard (either bluetooth or usb) connected.
how are you planning on running two screens, do you have a second video card?

Now thats an interesting question!! I read somewhere that it is possible to run two screens but a special cable is required. I havn't looked into that as yet.
Does anyone know about that.
z

furrybum · Post by **furrybum** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 3:32 pm

Not sure you can. You need a special cable to attach an external monitor to a macbook but as far as I know you can only send to one at a time.

Pasha · Post by **Pasha** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 3:37 pm

I used it (Macbook) closed sometimes.
The only drawback is that when you actually close it it goes in standby but when you press a key or move the mouse it goes alive again...
I fear that you need to keep it in standby mode forever.... So far I wasn't able to switch it off and on w/o opening the lid.

- Best
- Pasha

zenke · Post by **zenke** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 3:56 pm

I've just started to look around at possibilities for two screens.
Furry I see you use a macbook. Do you find it powerful enough for all your software.

I really want a laptop but I also need good power as I intend to do some video editing. trying to work out the best hardware to get.
without too much cost

I was thinking a powerbook with at least one extra screen.

Other option is powerbook plus an imac. extra cost in that though.
Its SOOO confusing !!! -;)

z

doc holiday · Post by **doc holiday** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 5:00 pm

can you hook up two screens to a laptop?

Machinate · Post by **Machinate** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 5:02 pm

doc holiday wrote:can you hook up two screens to a laptop?

yes:
http://www.matrox.com/graphics/en/gxm/p ... l/home.php

you can even hook up three:
http://www.matrox.com/graphics/en/gxm/p ... l/home.php

zenke · Post by **zenke** » Tue Apr 22, 2008 3:13 pm

this is looking good !
z