Can using a DVI-Displayport mini adapter increase screen resolution in clamshell mode?

Question

I often use my MacBook Pro (model 8,1) in clamshell mode (i.e. integrated screen closed) with my Samsung 24" SyncMaster2443 screen. However I perceive the image on the screen as somewhat blurry, definitely not unusable but not quite as crisp as when I connect the same screen to my desktop PC.

According to the specs I look up, the MBP can go up to 2560x1600, and my screen should be able to go up to 1920x1200 (Samsung Sweden official page, in Swedish). When I go to my display settings I do not see the active screen resolution, it simply says "best for display".

I have started to think that the issue might be due to the fact that I have connected the MBP using a VGA-Displayport mini adapter. Will changing to a DVI-Displayport adapter make a difference? If so, should I pay attention to Single/Dual link, or DVI-D/I?

Answer 1

Switching to a DVI adapter would certainly resolve your issue. As you have it now, your MBP is outputting a digital signal (DP) which then is converted to analog (VGA) and then back to digital (for display on the screen). DVI would keep the signal digital through the whole process.

As for which adapter to get, both single and dual link will work at a resolution of 1920x1200. Only above that resolution (i.e. 2560x1440) requires dual link. The type of DVI doesn't matter either, since you will only be using the digital signal rather than passing an analog signal through it, so DVI-I and DVI-D will both work the same.

In the meantime, you should be able to partially counteract the "fuzziness" you are experiencing by opening your monitor's OSD menu and auto-calibrating. This will work in most cases, although for your particular hardware loadout I'm afraid I'm not 100% sure. But it's free and worth a try.