Using Powerbook G4 as an extended screen

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Level 1

4 points

Using Powerbook G4 as an extended screen

I have an older Powerbook G4 (OSX 10.4.11) with a gorgeous 17" screen that I would like to use as an external display for one of my two mid-2012 MacBook Pros (one is running Sierra, the other is running Mojave).

Why I'm asking: Apple hasn't been making any new laptops with 17" screens, and their 16" tv-style screen ratio does nothing to improve upon my current setup. Additionally, I already have 4 macs in operation and don't really have space to add an external display (plus the one I already squeezed in was of such poor quality compared to a native apple screen that I returned it). So I'm back to either continuing to survive with my current set-up, or finding a way to extend the usefulness of my PBG4 beyond its current shining function as biz accounting database and Laserwriter 4/600 print server.

Is there any way to do this?

Thanks for sharing of your wisdom and expertise in this matter

Earlier Mac models

Posted on Dec 6, 2025 12:18 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Allan Jones

Level 9

77,822 points

Dec 8, 2025 8:27 AM in response to segfish

The only Macs that could accept and display an incoming video signal were a limited sub-set of iMacs listed in this Apple article:

Use your iMac as a display with target display mode - Apple Support

Also notice the restrictive macOS support. No Powerbooks could do that natively.

Apple began the deprecation of Target Display Mode in late 2014, and threw the last shovel on dirt on the grave in early 2020. It is truly dead tech.

I also have a 2003 17" PowerBook G4 and always liked the nice display. However, even compared to my now-retired entry-level non-Retina Macbook Pro 2012 13" it became clear that Mac display technology had come a long way in only nine years.

Thus I'm not sure that you'd be happy even if you jumped through unrealistic hoops to somehow make it work. I too vote for a free-standing eternal monitor.

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Answer 2

Dec 7, 2025 6:33 PM in response to segfish

You can:

Use VNC (slow, not extended display)
Hardware-mod the LCD with a custom controller
Use an Apple Cinema Display instead (best practical solution)

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Answer 3

segfish Author

Level 1

4 points

Dec 7, 2025 11:32 PM in response to azaksalmarzur28

aha!

*I set up a Remote Desktop successfully, once upon a time. It's complicated and as you point out, might not deliver, especially for video streaming. But possibly a rabbit hole worth exploring.

*Hardware modding is beyond the scope of what I'm interested in taking on

*While an Apple Cinema Display wouldn't work for my current situation, it's not a terrible idea once I move into my new digs later next year. They seem to be cheap and widely available. It does mean I have to drag it around the house with me (the new house is hardwired throughout for Cat 6a ethernet) whereever I'm plugged in and wanting to work but those are the breaks.

I really wish Apple still made widescreen 17" laptops! thanks for the creative suggestions

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