Configuration issues for Macintoshes without monitors.
Monitor-less Macs may experience problems booting, retaining passwords, and refreshing the screen. The solution is described in this technote, including a slightly different solution for a headless G4 or Blue and White G3.
To support screen sharing, some type of video device must be connected to the Macintosh. If no monitor is present, certain models of Macintosh do not have the ability to use Timbuktu Pro's technology, without additional hardware. The models affected are: PowerMacs, Quadras, some Centris models, and all Macintoshes with System software 7.5 or later.
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For most headless Macs, the solution is to install a "Macintosh-to-VGA" adapter on the video port before booting up. This adapter will fool the machine into thinking it has a monitor attached, thus activating its on-board will enable Timbuktu Pro guests connected to the monitor-less Mac to observe the screen.
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The G4s and Blue and White G3s don't have the same video port that older Macs do. Instead, they have a standard VGA port. To control or observe a headless G4 or Blue and White G3, connect an Apple adapter to the VGA port and then connect a Mac-to-VGA adapter to the first adapter. The Apple adapter is the only adapter we've found that works. The part number is 922-1458 and it is described as "Adapter, Macintosh to VGA". The difference between the Apple adapter and other similar adapters is the pin out on the Mac side. It's missing the #9 pin.
This adapter can be ordered from any Apple Service Provider authorized to order parts directly from Apple. It cannot be found in catalogs or Apple's own direct sales web site.
The Apple adapter is included with all Apple PowerBooks currently shipping and was included with all Blue and White G3s. It is not included with G4s.
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There are issues with headless Hosts that are running firewire 800. You can establish a Control session to the Host, but you'll be unable to navigate in files or folders. This is an issue that Apple is aware of and is working to resolve.
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Netopia does not provide or distribute Mac-to-VGA adapters. Mac-to-VGA adapters are available from most cable vendors and Mac mail-order houses.
- The Power Mac G4 Cube and the Dual Processor G4 are not currently supported running headless. However, we have found that most customers can make a successful connection to these systems when using the gHead adapter provided by Dr. Bott.