Mac mini starts up with monitor in extended mode, even if projector is turned off

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Mac mini starts up with monitor in extended mode, even if projector is turned off

I have 20 classrooms with the same setup: a Mac mini running Sonoma, connected to a monitor (ViewSonic) and a projector (BenQ). There is one HDMI port and I use an HDMI to USB-C adapter for the other; the scenario below happens no matter which one uses the adapter. They are configured to use Google authentication for single sign-on.

The issue is that when a computer starts up or when a user logs out, the monitor acts by default as an extended display for the projector, whether or not the projector is turned on. So unless the user logs in blind, they have to wait for the projector to turn on, crane their head, then enter their username and password. If they have logged into the machine before and changed the settings to use the desktop as a mirror, it will automatically switch *after* login.

Is there any way to change this behavior to have the monitor be the default primary display? Or, is there a key combination to switch between mirroring & extended, even when not logged in? It's not the greatest use case for a teacher in front of a room with impatient children!

Please help!

Posted on Aug 23, 2024 8:06 AM

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Answer 1

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islandemby Author

Level 1

10 points

Aug 28, 2024 10:26 AM in response to islandemby

The standard troubleshooting did not work, but ultimately it was resolved by deleting the plist file and booting again without the projector connected.

The file in question was ~/Library/Preferences/com.apple.windowserver.plist

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Answer 2

TheLittles

Level 10

195,274 points

Aug 23, 2024 8:52 PM in response to islandemby

islandemby Said:

"Mac mini starts up with monitor in extended mode, even if projector is turned off: [...]Is there any way to change this behavior to have the monitor be the default primary display? Or, is there a key combination to switch between mirroring & extended, even when not logged in? It's not the greatest use case for a teacher in front of a room with impatient children! Please help!"

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Mirror the Screen to/from this External Display:

Performing the following will mirror the Home Screen, and allow you to use it as if it were you laptop's screen.

Without Touchbar: Hold Down [command + F1]
With Touchbar: Hold Down: [command + dull screen]

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Answer 3

TheLittles

Level 10

195,274 points

Aug 29, 2024 9:59 PM in response to islandemby

islandemby Said:

"Mac mini starts up with monitor in extended mode, even if projector is turned off: The standard troubleshooting did not work, but ultimately it was resolved by deleting the plist file and booting again without the projector connected. The file in question was ~/Library/Preferences/com.apple.windowserver.plist”

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Excellent job troubleshooting!

So, what’s the reference to where you found this solution? Providing that may help many, for certain.

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