How do I use an external Monitor to access files on my iMac with a broken screen?

I have an 20 inch desktop iMac with a broken screen. It is the files on the computer that I wish to recover, after that, I can be on my merry way. Unfortunately, VileVault was on (Not my choice), and for some reason, when I target the disc image of the broken mac with a new one, ONE of the accounts "appears" to be completely empty. All of the accouts were running FileVault, but only one (mine) failed to be transferred because it is "empty". I refuse to believe that my files are actually all gone, because theoretically there should be nothing wrong with the CPU itself, just the screen.
Thus my goal is to use a monitor on my broken screen iMac and simply log in and access my files normally, and perhaps pull them out with a USB or something. I have a DELL monitor, and a DVI (The big hairy plug with screws I think) converter that works with my old iMac, along with the male/male DVI cord. However, when I hook it up, nothing happens. I have tried booting the old CPU while holding F7, and option as I read on a forum, and neither produced results.
Does anyone have any ideas on how to 1. Get the monitor to simply show what's going on on the mac? or 2. Pull out my files through some other means?
Thank you.

If you have a second Mac computer, you may want to try to copy over as many files you can. One way is to use target disk mode.
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1661
http://lowendmac.com/misc/06/0710.html
You need to follow this procedure to recovering a filevault id. Mac OS X 10.3, 10.4: FileVault - How to verify or repair a home directory image ... http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2631?viewlocale=en_US
Robert

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I am using a MacBook Pro early (2011), i also use an external Monitor. (Works fine -> mini displayport dvi adapter) !
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Greetings from Austria
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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.
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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.

How do I use an external Monitor to access files on my iMac with a broken screen?

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