Apple Multiple Scan 17 Display: Using Display Adapters

This article provides information on which Apple video cards and computers need display adapters to get greater resolution from the Apple Multiple Scan 17 Display.
The Apple Multiple Scan 17 Display has several resolutions. Macintosh computers designed before the introduction of Apple Multiple Scan 17 Display will only recognize the display as a 14-in color display without an adapter.

Display adapters, available through Apple resellers and the third-party companies, contain a sense code that tricks the Macintosh into believing that the display is fixed frequency 16-in. or 19-in. display. Without the adapter, the display will be fixed at a 640x480 resolution.

Computers and Video Cards Not Requiring Video Adapters

Power Macintosh family

Macintosh Centris

Macintosh Quadra

Macintosh LC 475

Macintosh Performa 475 and 476

Macintosh Display Card 24AC

Macintosh 630 Family

Computers and Video Cards Requiring Video Adapters

Macintosh II Family

PowerBook computers before the PowerBook 3400

Duo Dock and MiniDock*

Macintosh Performa Computers (except 475 and 476)

Macintosh LC, LC II, LC III

Video Cards - 4*8, 8*24, 8*24GC

* - The Duo Dock does not require a video adapter to change resolutions when System 7.5 is installed.

Display adapters are available from several third-pary companies such as Enhanced Cable Technology, Griffin Technology, and MacAdapt.

Published Date: Feb 19, 2012