Review on StarTech.com Active Mini DisplayPort to VGA Converter for Mac/PC - 1080p Video - VESA Certified - mDP 1.2 to VGA Dongle by Michael Altayeb

I bought this adapter instead of the Cirago Mini Active DisplayPort to VGA Adapter (DPA2011) because it was cheaper. But let me tell you, it works! It really works! If I had a dollar for any VGA or DVI adapter that's low-quality junk, I'd snag it. I was so pleased when this adapter worked straight away with no issues. I've heard that the Cirago adapter is also very good and works great, but I haven't tried it myself. The real reason I got it is because it is an ACTIVE adapter. I have a late 2011, late 2011 15 inch MacBook Pro and when I try to boot into Windows 7 when using an external monitor there is absolutely no image on the screen when I use a regular VGA adapter. Mac OS works fine. HOWEVER, StarTech came to the rescue, and after weeks of agony without my beautiful monitor, I am FINALLY able to use both OSes on the big screen! The problem with traditional (or "passive") VGA adapters is that they require a software signal to analog. Some computers have it and some don't. The *StarTech* adapter is great because it has built-in conversion hardware with no additional software or drivers. They are called "active" adapters because they actively convert the signal themselves. If you are in doubt about buying a cheap fake VGA adapter, you should spend a little more for it because it is worth it.