Will a MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010) power up in clamshell mode? Although part of my problem is covered here - Powering on while the lid is closed in clamshell mode, it alone doesn't solve my query.

I'm trying to turn my MBP into a server, and because of that I want to keep the lid closed. I'm using InsomniaX to keep it from going to sleep, which usually works for just keeping the computer awake.

I want to be able to restart my computer remotely (I already have this implemented), in its lid closed state, and have it not go to sleep after the boot.

I've heard I could connect an external monitor, but I don't exactly have one laying around to use, so is there a way to mimic one?

Is there an app to disable the sleeping that happens on a MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010) after the computer is booted up with the display shut completely?
An easy way to spoof a monitor connector is to use a VGA adapter, and connect a VGA Dummy-plug (sometimes called a "VGA Terminator").

There are a number of tutorials on how to make your own - here and here are other (though these involve soldering).

You can also buy them in DVI-A and VGA flavors.

If you want something that spoofs a DVI-D interface into thinking there is an attached monitor, it is a lot more work.