How do I use an external monitor as my only display?

I have a MBP early 2011 with a thunderbolt to HDMI connector for a samsung LED monitor. I want to use the samsung as my only monitor when I am at my desk at home. I have an external keyboard/trackpad and would like a bigger workspace. As we all know Lion and full screen apps take a lot of usefulness out of extra monitors, but I just want one larger external display.
The display will work as a mirror, or an additional display, however it wont work by it self with the MBP closed. It just stays on as a secondary display.
Any and all help would be appreciated.
Thanks

yeh you need at least an external mouse or keyboard connected to the mac when the lid is closed and mac is sleeping, then use it to wake the mac up. At this point it should use only the samsung monitor. So for example in the pic below im using bluetooth mouse and keyboard paired with my mac pro 17", i dont really need to let it sleep either, can just connect the monitor while the mac is on, then close the lid and the samsung will change from external monitor to primary monitor.
hope this helps.

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Hi Guys!
I am using a MacBook Pro early (2011), i also use an external Monitor. (Works fine -> mini displayport dvi adapter) !
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Thanx guys for your help, if this topic was discussed in the past, i apologize for this extra entry (May you can show its link)
Greetings from Austria
theFlow

Hi MarcusL,
Welcome to the HP Community, I hope you enjoy your experience! To help you get the most out of the HP Forums I would like to direct your attention to the HP Forums Guide First Time Here? Learn How to Post and More.
I saw your post regarding using the two external monitors. You should be able to connect both. I have included two documents below depending on your operating system that will show you how to do it.
Connecting a Monitor, Projector or TV (Windows 7)
Connecting a Monitor, Projector or TV (Windows 8)
Thank you,
Please click “Accept as Solution ” if you feel my post solved your issue.
Click the “Kudos Thumbs Up" on the right to say “Thanks” for helping!
Thank you,
BHK6
I work on behalf of HP

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*******DISCLAIMER********
I am not an employee of BBY in any shape or form. All information presented in my replies or postings is my own opinion. It is up to you , the end user to determine the ultimate validity of any information presented on these forums.

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tell application "System Preferences"
activate
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set dx to 800
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How do i use an external display with my macbook pro?

How do I use an external display with a macbook pro?

Just buy the proper adapter cord, such as MiniDisplay port to HDMI for example. Plug it in and it will be automatically recognized. Use System Preferences > Displays to set options.
The display can Mirror your primary desktop or Extend the Desktop.
Regards,
Captfred

How do I use an external monitor as my only display?

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