To close your Mac without turning off an external monitor, you can enable Clamshell mode. This mode allows you to close the lid of your computer while it is connected to an external display, without putting your computer to sleep.
To enable Clamshell mode, follow these steps:
1. Click on the Apple menu located in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. From the drop-down menu, select “System Preferences.”
3. In the System Preferences window, click on “Energy Saver.”
4. In the Energy Saver preferences, you will see two sliders: one for “Computer Sleep” and one for “Display Sleep.” Adjust these sliders to “Never.” This will prevent your computer from going to sleep when you close the lid.
By setting both the Computer Sleep and Display Sleep sliders to “Never,” your computer will stay awake even when you close the lid. This allows you to continue using the external display without interruption.
It’s important to note that enabling Clamshell mode may cause your Mac to generate more heat, as the closed lid restricts airflow. To prevent overheating, make sure your Mac is placed on a flat, hard surface that allows for proper ventilation. You may also consider using a laptop cooling pad to help dissipate heat.
Additionally, keep in mind that when using Clamshell mode, your Mac’s built-in display will be turned off. All of your desktop and app windows will be displayed solely on the external monitor. If you want to use your Mac’s built-in display again, simply open the lid and your Mac will automatically switch back to the built-in display.
Enabling Clamshell mode allows you to close the lid of your Mac while it is connected to an external display, without putting your computer to sleep. By adjusting the Energy Saver preferences to “Never” for both Computer Sleep and Display Sleep, you can continue using the external monitor without any interruption. Just ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.