Task: Connect a Classic Macintosh to an LED Monitor by Converting VGA to HDMI
Needed: DB15 to VGA converter, VGA to HDMI converter
Time: 15-30 minutes
Introduction
Getting classic Macintoshes such as the LC and Performa series to display video on an LED screen via HDMI can be frustrating. Fortunately, as I have previously covered, the analog signal from the Mac DB-15 video port can be converted to VGA and displayed on any monitor with a VGA port using a simple and inexpensive adapter. Unfortunately, getting the analog VGA signal to HDMI requires an analog to digital converter. These are available, and work well, but are more expensive.
Instructions
First, make sure you have a DB-15 to VGA converter that works. I purchased this one from amazon for about $20. See my previous post for details. I have also purchased a Mac Sync-inator from Big Mess O’ Wires that also works great. It is more expensive at $40 and is a bare circuit board. However, it does seem to have some dynamic processing on the board that might be useful in some circumstances.
Second, purchase a good quality VGA to HDMI converter. I purchased this JideTech model from Amazon from about $40. This one was a little less expensive than some others and had good reviews.
Third, connect the VGA adapter to the DB-15 port with the correct DIP switches flipped ON. I needed 1, 4, 5, and 7 for my Mac LC III. Connect your VGA cable to this adapter and then connect it to your HDMI converter. Connect your HDMI connector to your LED screen and boot your Mac. A black screen likely means you don’t have the right DIP switch settings on your VGA adapter. For example, my Mac LC requires 1, 2, 6, 7, and 8 which is different than my LC III.
Comments
These setups always take some tinkering in my experience. Well worth the effort!
