BENFEI Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the BENFEI Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter, Model 000171. This adapter is designed to facilitate the connection of a Mini DisplayPort (Thunderbolt compatible) enabled computer or device to a display device equipped with a VGA port, such as an HDTV, monitor, or projector. It supports video transmission only and does not transmit audio.

2. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to correctly set up your BENFEI Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter:

1. Prepare Your Devices: Ensure your Mini DisplayPort source device (e.g., laptop, desktop PC) and your VGA display device (e.g., monitor, projector) are powered off.
2. Connect VGA Cable: Obtain a standard VGA cable (not included). Connect one end of the VGA cable to the VGA port on your display device.
3. Connect Adapter to VGA Cable: Connect the other end of the VGA cable to the VGA female port on the BENFEI Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter. Secure the connection if your VGA cable has screws.
4. Connect Adapter to Source Device: Plug the Mini DisplayPort male connector of the adapter into the Mini DisplayPort (or Thunderbolt port) on your computer or source device.
5. Power On Devices: Power on your display device first, then power on your computer or source device.
6. Configure Display Settings: Your computer should automatically detect the connected display. If not, navigate to your operating system's display settings to configure the external monitor (e.g., extend display, duplicate display).

Figure 2.1: Connection Diagram. The adapter transmits signals only from Mini DP source to VGA monitor.

3. Operating Instructions

The BENFEI Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter provides a straightforward solution for video output. Once connected as described in the Setup section, the adapter will transmit video signals from your Mini DisplayPort source to your VGA display.

• Video Resolution: The adapter supports video resolutions up to 1920x1200 / 1080P Full HD at 60Hz, providing clear and crisp visuals.
• No Audio Output: Please note that this adapter is designed for video transmission only. Audio will not be transmitted through the VGA connection. You will need a separate audio cable for sound if your display device has speakers.
• Display Modes: Your operating system's display settings will allow you to choose between different display modes:
  • Mirror Mode: Duplicates your computer's screen onto the external display.
  • Extended Mode: Extends your desktop across both your computer's screen and the external display, allowing for more workspace.

Figure 3.1: Mirror Mode and Extended Mode display configurations.

Figure 3.2: Example of 1080P@60Hz resolution output on an external display.

4. Compatibility

This adapter is designed for specific Mini DisplayPort and Thunderbolt-enabled devices. Please review the compatibility information below:

Compatible Devices (Mini DisplayPort / Thunderbolt Host):

• Apple: iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Pro, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro (13-inch, 15-inch, 17-inch), MacBook Air 2010-2017, MacBook Pro Mid 2010, MacBook Pro 2010-2015, iMac 2009-2015 (cannot be used as a monitor), Mac mini 2010-2014, Mac Pro 2009-2013.
• Microsoft Surface: Surface Pro/Pro2/Pro3/Pro4/Pro5/Pro6, Surface Laptop/Laptop2/Laptop 3, Surface Book/Surface Studio.
• Lenovo: Thinkpad T440/T440p/T450/T460, ThinkPad Helix/X230/L430/L530, ThinkPad T430s/T430/T530/W530.
• Dell: Dell XPS (Before 2016).
• Other: Cyberpower Zeusbook Edge X6-100/X6-200, Toshiba Satellite Pro S500, Tecra M11/A11/S11.

Incompatible Devices:

• Apple: MacBook 2009 and introduced in 2015 or later, MacBook Pro 2016 or later, MacBook Air 2015 or later, iMac 2017 or later, Mac Mini 2018 or later, Mac Pro 2019 or later.
• Microsoft Surface: Surface Book 2/Surface Pro 7/Pro X/Surface Laptop3, Surface Go/Surface dock/Surface/Surface 2/Surface Studio 2.
• Lenovo: Thinkpad x1 carbon/L540/E595/X240/Lenovo yoga 720.
• HP: 14b-ca0000/Chromebook x360/ENVY x360 15-ds000/G60.
• Dell: Inspiron 14 5000/XPS 12/latitude d630.
• Other: iPhone/iPad Air/iPad pro/PS3/PS4Pro/Huawei/Mate 20 pro, Amazon Fire HD, Kindle, Amazon Firestick, Nintendo Switch, Xbox.

Note: If your laptop is not listed, please consult the manufacturer for compatibility or consider a USB-C to HDMI adapter if your device supports it.

Figure 4.1: Detailed list of compatible and incompatible devices.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your BENFEI Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Handle with Care: Avoid bending or twisting the cable excessively, especially near the connectors.
• Keep Clean: Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the adapter and connectors. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the adapter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
• Protect Connectors: The adapter features gold-plated connectors for enhanced signal transmission and corrosion resistance. Keep the connectors free from dust and debris.

Figure 5.1: Adapter features including compact size, smart chip, and gold-plated connector.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while using your BENFEI Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter, refer to the following troubleshooting tips:

• No Display on Monitor:
  • Ensure all connections are secure. Unplug and re-plug both the Mini DisplayPort and VGA ends.
  • Verify that the VGA cable is functioning correctly by testing it with another device if possible.
  • Check your computer's display settings to ensure the external monitor is detected and configured (e.g., extended or duplicated).
  • Confirm that your source device's Mini DisplayPort is active and outputting a signal.
• Flickering or Unstable Image:
  • Check for loose connections.
  • Ensure the resolution and refresh rate settings on your computer are compatible with your VGA display. Try lowering the resolution if issues persist.
  • Minimize interference from other electronic devices.
• No Audio:
  • This adapter transmits video signals only. It does not support audio output. For audio, connect a separate audio cable from your source device to your display or external speakers.
• Adapter Not Working with USB/DP/DVI:
  • This adapter is specifically designed for Mini DisplayPort to VGA conversion. It is not compatible with USB, standard DisplayPort, or DVI ports. Ensure your source device has a Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt port.

Figure 6.1: Adapter directionality and incompatible port types.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

BENFEI provides the following warranty and support for this product:

• Money-Back Guarantee: 45 days.
• Worry-Free Warranty: 18 months.
• Customer Support: For technical assistance, warranty claims, or any product-related inquiries, please contact BENFEI customer support through the retailer's platform or the official BENFEI website.