Quick answer
💻 Want to use Luna Display with your MacBook lid closed? Clamshell Mode lets you keep your MacBook closed while using Luna Display with an external display like an iPad or secondary Mac.
💡 Key requirements:
Power connection: MacBook must be plugged into power
Sleep settings: Adjust macOS settings to prevent automatic sleep
External display: If using other displays, they must be connected and active
Launch sequence: Start Luna Display before closing the lid
What is Clamshell Mode?
📱 Clamshell Mode Benefits
Use your MacBook with Luna Display while keeping the lid closed:
Save space: Built-in screen doesn't take up desk space
Clean setup: Focus on your external display only
Better ergonomics: Position external display optimally
Reduced heat: Closed lid can improve cooling
Requirements for Clamshell Mode
🔌 Essential Setup Requirements
Before using Clamshell Mode with Luna Display:
Power connection: MacBook must be connected to power via charging cable
External display: If using other displays besides Luna, they must be connected and active
Proper sleep settings: Configure macOS to prevent automatic sleep
Sleep Settings Setup
⚙️ macOS Ventura and Later
⚙️ macOS Ventura and Later
Configure sleep settings to prevent automatic sleep:
Go to System Settings
Select Battery
Click Options at the bottom right
Turn on "Prevent automatic sleeping on power adapter when the display is off"
⚙️ macOS Monterey and Earlier
⚙️ macOS Monterey and Earlier
For older macOS versions:
Go to System Preferences → Battery
Select Battery and Power Adapter from sidebar
For both options, set "Turn display off after" to Never
Using Luna Display with Clamshell Mode
🚀 Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to use Luna Display in Clamshell Mode:
Connect power: Plug MacBook into power via charging cable
Launch Luna Display: Start Luna Display on both devices (Mac and iPad/secondary Mac)
Establish connection: Ensure Luna Display is working properly
Close the lid: Close your MacBook lid - Luna will continue running and display on the secondary device
💡 Pro tip: Always launch Luna Display and establish the connection before closing your MacBook lid for the most reliable experience.
Troubleshooting
🔧 Common Issues
If Clamshell Mode isn't working properly:
Check power connection: Ensure MacBook is plugged into power
Verify sleep settings: Double-check that automatic sleep is disabled
External display requirement: If using other monitors, make sure they're active
Restart Luna Display: Try relaunching the app on both devices
❓ Need Help?
If you're still having issues getting Clamshell Mode to work: