Using 2009 iMac as display for 2012 MacBook Pro

I have a late 2009 27-inch iMac and a Retina, 13-inch, Late 2012 MacBook Pro. How do I use the iMac screen as a display for the MacBook.

Hi Jim on Apple,
Welcome to the Apple Support Communities!
It sounds like you need to put your iMac in what is called Target Display Mode. The attached article has some great information on Target Display Mode including setting up and other common frequently asked questions.
Target Display Mode: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3924
Have a great day,
Joe

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You are correct, here is what Apple Says:
http://support.apple.com/kb/TS3775
I was able to find these instructions, however they referr to 2009-2011 27" iMacs. I think it's the same, if it's not then contact Apple directly for instructions. If either of the machines is less than 90 days old or covered by AppleCare then call AppleCare tomorrow for help, they should be able to easily answer this for you. You will find the number in your manual or you can use the AppleCare Contact Info link.
Your iMac should automatically recognize the presence of a digital video signal at the Mini DisplayPort and enter Target Display Mode.
If your iMac does not automatically enter Target Display Mode, press command + F2 to manually enter Target Display Mode.

Can I use my iMac as a 'display' for my MacBook Pro?

Hi all, I am really hoping someone can help me here.
I am wondering if I can use my 24" iMac as a display for my MacBook Pro (both running Snow Leopard).
It's my father's 80th birthday party in about 24 hours time. I am doing up the music and slideshow (thanks Apple - so easy!).
My plan was to simply take my iMac and use it. However, I managed to drop the wireless keyboard (darn those dogs) and now my keyboard won't work. I have no backup keyboards here (gave the wired one to Dad to use with his Mac mini). I live in a country area with no access to a Mac store and it will take more than 24 hours to get a new one. Went to my local 'other computer' general store last night: I really don't want to buy an ugly black keyboard..... I have just had a great idea:
Can I network my MacBook Pro and use it as the source for the slide show and simply use the iMac as a display? I have plenty of DVI adaptors but am just not sure how I would go about the software side of things? Or should I simply buy an ugly PC keyboard (and if I do, will the WIndows button work as an Apple button???)
Any suggestions would be really appreciated.
Thanks!

The imac 24 can't be used as a monitor over a DVI connection or the like, Suzanne, but you may be able to achieve what you want to using "Screen Sharing" by networking the two computers. This lets your MBP effectively control what is running on the iMac.
See HERE for the basic setup. For information about how to access the "shareable" screen from the MBP see HERE.
One possible problem may be actually getting this set-up on the iMac if it is not already enabled, however, unless you can borrow a keyboard from someone (your password may have to be entered to enable it). You may be able to get around this, if necessary, using the "keyboard viewer" (which you can place in the menubar using System preferences > Keyboard, if you don't already have it there).
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Thank you for your time.

Welcome to Apple Support Communities
You can use the Mid 2011 iMac as a display for your 2011 MacBook Pro. Both have Thunderbolt, so you won't have any problem > http://support.apple.com/kb/PH11302?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US
Buy a Thunderbolt cable and press Command and F2 keys on the iMac to enable Target Display

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Hello eassic,
Thanks for the question, and welcome to Apple Support Communities.
It sounds like Target Display Mode may be what you are looking for:
Target Display Mode lets you use a Mac as the external display for another “primary” Mac. In some cases, you can also play the sound from your primary Mac on the speakers of the external Mac. For example, a MacBook Pro could use a 27-inch iMac as the display and play its audio on the iMac as well.
OS X Mountain Lion: Use another Mac as a display
http://support.apple.com/kb/PH11302
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2. Make sure both Mac computers are turned on and awake.
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Using 2009 iMac as display for 2012 MacBook Pro

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