Congratulations, you and your Mac mini were made for each other.
Say hello to your Mac mini. www.apple.com/macmini Finder Browse your files like you browse your music with Cover Flow. Mac Help finder Mail Manage all your email accounts in one place. iCal and Address Book Keep your schedule and your contacts in sync.
Mac OS X Snow Leopard www.apple.com/macosx Time Machine Automatically back up and restore your files. Quick Look Instantly preview your files. Spotlight Find anything on your Mac. Mac Help quick look Mac Help spotlight iPhoto Organize and search your photos by faces, places, or events. iMovie Make a greatlooking movie in minutes or edit your masterpiece. GarageBand Learn to play. Start a jam session. Record and mix your own song. iWeb Create custom websites and publish them anywhere with a click.
Contents Chapter 1: Ready, Set Up, Go 10 11 17 18 21 24 What’s in the Box Setting Up Your Mac mini Setting Up DVD or CD Sharing Migrating Information to Your Mac mini Getting Additional Information onto Your Mac mini Putting Your Mac mini to Sleep or Shutting It Down Chapter 2: Life with Your Mac mini 28 30 32 33 What’s on the Front of Your Mac mini What’s on the Back of Your Mac mini Using the Apple Remote Getting Answers Chapter 3: Problem, Meet Solution 40 42 43 46 47 Problems That Prevent You from
48 51 52 52 54 Problems with Your Internet Connection Problems with AirPort Extreme Wireless Communication Keeping Your Software Up to Date Learning More, Service, and Support Locating Your Product Serial Number Chapter 4: Last, but Not Least 57 60 62 64 65 Important Safety Information Important Handling Information Understanding Ergonomics Apple and the Environment Regulatory Compliance Information Looking for Something? 70 Index 6 Contents
1 1 Ready, Set Up, Go www.apple.
Your Mac mini is designed so that you can easily set it up and start using it right away. If you’ve never used a Mac mini or are new to Mac computers, read this section for instructions about getting started. Important: Read all the installation instructions and the safety information starting on page 57 before you plug your Mac mini into a power outlet. If you’re an experienced user, you may already know enough to get started.
What’s in the Box Your Mac mini comes with the following components: Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter AC cord Power adapter Before you set up your Mac mini, remove the protective film from the outside of your computer and power adapter. Follow the steps on the next several pages to set up. Important: Don’t place anything on top of your Mac mini. Objects placed on top may interfere with the optical drive or the AirPort or Bluetooth® wireless signal.
Setting Up Your Mac mini Position your Mac mini so that it’s right side up or on its side, but not upside down. Use the power adapter that came with your Mac mini; other power adapters may not work. Step 1: Plug the AC cord into the power adapter, plug the cord from the power adapter into your Mac mini, and then plug the power adapter into a grounded power outlet.
Step 2: To access the Internet or a network, connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your Mac mini and the other end to a cable modem, DSL modem, or network. ® Your Mac mini comes with AirPort Extreme technology for wireless networking. For information about setting up a wireless connection, choose Help > Mac Help, and search for “AirPort.
Step 3: Connect the USB cable from your keyboard and mouse. ® Your Mac mini doesn’t come with a keyboard or a mouse, but you can use almost any USB keyboard and mouse. If your keyboard has a USB (d) port, plug your mouse into the USB port on the keyboard. If it doesn’t, plug the mouse into a USB (d) port on the back of your Mac mini.
You can use Keyboard preferences to change the behavior of the Caps Lock, Control, Option, and Command (x) modifier keys. To open Keyboard preferences, choose Apple () > System Preferences, click Keyboard, then click Modifier Keys and follow the onscreen instructions. If you use a USB keyboard that isn’t specifically designed for the Mac OS, it may not have a Command (x) or Option modifier key, which are standard on Apple keyboards.
Step 4: Connect a display cable to the Mini-DVI port or Mini DisplayPort. Your Mac mini doesn’t come with a display. You can connect a display that has: Â A Mini DisplayPort connector. Connect directly to the Mini DisplayPort. Â A DVI connector. Use the Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter that came with your Mac mini to connect to the Mini-DVI port. Â A VGA connector. Use the Mini-DVI to VGA Adapter to connect to the Mini-DVI port or the Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter to connect to the Mini DisplayPort.
Step 5: Press the power (®) button on the back to turn on your Mac mini. ® ® Step 6: Configure your Mac mini with Setup Assistant. The first time you turn on your Mac mini, Setup Assistant starts. Setup Assistant helps you enter your Internet and email information and set up a user account on your Mac mini.
If you don’t intend to keep or use your other Mac, it’s best to deauthorize it from playing music, videos, or audiobooks that you’ve purchased from the iTunes Store. Deauthorizing a computer prevents any songs, videos, or audiobooks you’ve purchased from being played by someone else, and frees up another authorization for use. For information about deauthorizing, choose iTunes Help from the Help menu in iTunes.
 Remotely install Mac OS X (see “Reinstalling Software Using Remote Install Mac OS X” on page 43) or use Disk Utility (see “Using Disk Utility” on page 46) The computer with the optical drive can be a Mac with Mac OS X v10.4.11 or later, or a Windows XP or Windows Vista computer. If the Mac has Mac OS X v10.5.5 or later, DVD or CD Sharing is already installed. You can partner with more than one other computer. If the other computer is a Windows computer or a Mac with a Mac OS X version earlier than 10.5.
Check the AirPort (Z) status icon in the menu bar at the top of the other Mac screen to see what wireless network you’re connected to. Choose the same network for your Mac mini during setup. 2 On your Mac mini, follow the Setup Assistant onscreen instructions until you get to the “Do You Already Own a Mac?” screen. Select “from another Mac” as the source of the information you want to transfer. On the next screen, choose your wireless network, and then click Continue.
4 On the other Mac, open Migration Assistant (located in /Applications/Utilities/), and then click Continue. 5 When you are prompted for a migration method, select “To another Mac”, and then click Continue. 6 On the other Mac, quit any other open applications and then click Continue. 7 On the other Mac, enter the six-digit passcode displayed in Setup Assistant on your Mac mini. You can choose the items (user accounts, documents, movies, music, photos, and so on) that you want to migrate to your Mac mini.
Getting Additional Information onto Your Mac mini Your Mac mini comes with several applications installed, including the iLife suite. Many other applications can be downloaded from the Internet. If you want to install thirdparty applications from a DVD or CD, you can install applications onto your Mac mini or share information using the optical disc drive on another Mac or Windows computer (if DVD or CD Sharing is set up and enabled). Read the next section for more information.
2 On the other Mac, choose Apple () > System Preferences and then open Sharing. 3 In the Sharing panel, select “DVD or CD Sharing” in the Service list. If you want other users to request permission to share a DVD or CD, select “Ask me before allowing others to use my DVD drive.” To enable DVD or CD Sharing, if your other computer is a Windows computer: 1 Make sure your Mac mini and the Windows computer are on the same wireless network.
2 On the Windows computer, open the DVD or CD Sharing control panel. 3 Select “Enable DVD or CD Sharing.” If you want other users to request permission to share a DVD or CD, select “Ask me before allowing others to use my DVD drive.” To use a shared DVD or CD: 1 On the other computer, insert a DVD or CD into the optical disc drive. 2 On your Mac mini, select the Remote Disc when it appears under Devices in the Finder sidebar. If you see the “Ask to use” button, click it.
Putting Your Mac mini to Sleep or Shutting It Down When you finish working with your Mac mini, you can put it to sleep or shut it down. Putting Your Mac mini to Sleep If you’ll be away from your Mac mini for less than a few days, put it to sleep. When your Mac mini is in sleep, the display’s screen is dark. You can quickly wake your Mac mini and bypass the startup process. To put your Mac mini to sleep, do one of the following: Â Choose Apple () > Sleep from the menu bar.
2 2 Life with Your Mac mini www.apple.
Read on for an overview of the features and ports of your Mac mini. The Apple website at www.apple.com links you to the latest Apple news, free downloads, and online catalogs of software and hardware for your Mac mini. You can also find the manuals for many Apple products and technical support for all Apple products on the Apple Support website at www.apple.com/support.
What’s on the Front of Your Mac mini AirPort antennas Built-in infrared (IR) receiver Bluetooth antenna Slot-loading SuperDrive 28 Chapter 2 Life with Your Mac mini Power indicator light
Z AirPort Extreme wireless technology (inside) Connect to a wireless network using built-in AirPort Extreme technology. To avoid interference, keep the area around the AirPort antennas free from obstruction. Built-in infrared (IR) receiver Use an optional Apple Remote (available separately) with the IR receiver to control Front Row and Keynote on your Mac mini from up to 30 feet (9.1 meters) away.
What’s on the Back of Your Mac mini £ Mini-DVI port £ Mini DisplayPort Security slot , Audio in/optical digital audio in port ® Power button f Headphone ® ¯ G Ethernet port (10/100/1000 Base-T) 30 out/optical digital audio out port Power port Chapter 2 Life with Your Mac mini H FireWire 800 port d USB 2.
£ Mini-DVI port Use the included Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter to connect to a DVI display or a TV. £ Mini DisplayPort Connect a display that uses a Mini DisplayPort connector. Security slot Attach a lock and cable (available separately) to discourage theft. , Audio in/optical digital audio in port Connect a line-level microphone or digital audio equipment. f Headphone out/optical digital audio out port Connect headphones, external powered speakers, or digital audio equipment.
Using the Apple Remote With the optional Apple Remote you can play music from your iTunes music library, watch photo slideshows and QuickTime movie trailers, play a DVD with DVD Player, and more—all from across the room. Your Apple Remote can: Â Navigate in iTunes, iPhoto, and DVD Player. Â Put to sleep or wake your Mac mini. To use your Apple Remote: Â Press the Play/Pause (’) button to play or pause a song, slideshow, or movie.
3 Press and hold the Next/Fast-forward ( ) and Menu (») buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds. When you’ve successfully paired your Apple Remote with your Mac mini, a chainlink ( ) symbol appears onscreen. To delete a pairing between your Apple Remote and your Mac mini: 1 Choose Apple () > System Preferences from the menu bar. 2 Click Security, and then click Unpair. Turning Off IR Reception You can use Security preferences to turn IR reception on or off.
b Choose Mac Help to open the Mac Help window, where you can browse topics or type a search question. More Information For more information about using your Mac mini, see the following: 34 To learn about See Troubleshooting your Mac mini if you have a problem Chapter 3, “Problem, Meet Solution,” on page 37. Finding service and support for your Mac mini “Learning More, Service, and Support” on page 52 or go to the Mac mini Support site at www.apple.com/support/macmini.
To learn about See Connecting to the Internet Mac Help and search for “Internet.” Using a display Mac Help and search for “display.” Connecting a TV The Mac mini site at www.apple.com/macmini/accessories.html. Apple Remote Mac Help and search for “remote.” Front Row Mac Help and search for “Front Row.” Burning a CD or DVD Mac Help and search for “burn disc.” Specifications The Specifications page at www.apple.com/support/specs.
3 3 Problem, Meet Solution www.apple.
Occasionally you may have problems while working with your Mac mini. Read on for troubleshooting tips to try when you have a problem. You can also find more troubleshooting information in Mac Help or on the Mac mini Service & Support website at www.apple.com/support/macmini. If you experience a problem working with your Mac mini, there’s usually a simple and quick solution. If you encounter a problem, try to make a note of what you did before the problem occurred.
Problems That Prevent You from Using Your Mac mini If your computer won’t respond or the pointer won’t move  Make sure the mouse and keyboard are connected. Unplug and then plug in the connectors, making sure they are secure.  If the problem persists, try to force problem applications to quit. On an Apple keyboard, hold down the Option and Command (x) keys and then press the Esc key. On other keyboards, hold down the Windows and Alt keys and then press the Esc key.
If your Mac mini freezes during startup or you see a flashing question mark  Wait a few seconds. If your Mac mini doesn’t start up after a delay, shut down your Mac mini by pressing and holding the power (®) button for about 5 seconds, until it shuts down. Then hold down the Option key and press the power (®) button again to start up your computer. Keep holding down the Option key until your Mac mini starts up, then click the arrow under the icon of the hard disk you want to use as your startup disk.
Reinstalling the Software That Came with Your Mac mini Use the software installation discs that came with your Mac mini to reinstall Mac OS X and any applications that came with your computer. You can choose “Archive and Install,” which saves your existing files and settings, or “Erase and Install,” which erases all your data. Important: Apple recommends that you back up the data on your hard disk before restoring software.
Installing Applications If you reinstall Mac OS X on your computer and select the “Erase and Install” option, you must reinstall the applications that came with your computer, such as the iLife applications. To install the applications that came with your computer: 1 Back up your important files. 2 Insert the Applications Install DVD that came with your computer. 3 Double-click Install Bundled Software. 4 Follow the onscreen instructions. 5 When the installation is complete, click Close.
To use Remote Install Mac OS X: 1 Insert the Mac OS X Install DVD into the optical disc drive of the other computer. 2 If the other computer is a Mac, open /Applications/Utilities/Remote Install Mac OS X. (Unless the other Mac already has Mac OS X v10.5.5, you might need to install this application.) On Windows, choose “Remote Install Mac OS X” from the Install Assistant. 3 Read the introduction and click Continue. 4 Select the installation disc you want to use, and click Continue.
9 If you chose AirPort as your network in step 5, on your Mac mini choose your AirPort network from the pop-up list. If the network is secure, you are prompted for a password. You can enter a private network name by choosing the ellipsis (...) and typing the name. 10 If you chose AirPort as your network in step 5, when you see the AirPort status icon indicating signal strength, click Continue in Remote Install Mac OS X.
Using Disk Utility When you need to repair, verify, or erase your Mac mini hard disk, use Disk Utility by sharing the optical disc drive of another computer. To use Disk Utility from a partner computer: 1 Follow the procedure for using Remote Install Mac OS X beginning on page 44. 2 Click Continue in Remote Install Mac OS X. 3 On your Mac mini, choose Installer > Open Disk Utility and then follow the instructions in the First Aid pane to see if Disk Utility can repair the disk.
If you have trouble ejecting a disc  Make sure nothing is placed on top of your computer. Objects placed on top of your computer may keep a disc from ejecting.  Quit any applications that may be using the disc, and then press the Media Eject (C) key on your Apple keyboard. On other keyboards, you may be able to use the F12 key to eject a disc. Check the documentation that came with your keyboard.
To use Apple Hardware Test: 1 Disconnect all external devices from your Mac mini, except the keyboard and mouse. If you have an Ethernet cable connected, disconnect it. 2 Restart your Mac mini while holding down the D key. 3 When the Apple Hardware Test chooser screen appears, select the language you want to use. 4 Press the Return key or click the right arrow button. 5 When the Apple Hardware Test main screen appears (after about 45 seconds), follow the onscreen instructions.
To use Network Diagnostics: 1 Choose Apple () > System Preferences. 2 Click Network and then click “Assist me.” 3 Click Diagnostics to open Network Diagnostics. 4 Follow the onscreen instructions. If Network Diagnostics can’t resolve the problem, there may be a problem with the Internet service provider (ISP) you are trying to connect to, with an external device you are using to connect to your ISP, or with the server you are trying to access. You can try the steps in the following sections.
PPPoE Connections If you are unable to connect to your ISP using PPPoE (Point to Point Protocol over Ethernet), make sure you have entered the correct information in Network preferences. To enter PPPoE settings: 1 Choose Apple () > System Preferences. 2 Click Network. 3 Click Add (+) at the bottom of the network connection services list, and choose PPPoE from the Interface pop-up menu. 4 Choose an interface for the PPPoE service from the Ethernet pop-up menu.
If only one IP address is provided, then you must have a router capable of sharing the connection, also known as network address translation (NAT) or “IP masquerading.” For setup information, check the documentation provided with your router or ask the person who set up your network. The AirPort Base Station can be used to share one IP address among multiple computers. For information about using an AirPort Base Station, check Mac Help or visit the AirPort Extreme website at www.apple.com/support/airport.
 See AirPort Help (choose Help > Mac Help, and then choose Library > AirPort Help from the menu bar). Also see the instructions that came with the wireless device for more information. Keeping Your Software Up to Date You can connect to the Internet and automatically download and install the latest free software versions, drivers, and other enhancements from Apple. When you are connected to the Internet, Software Update checks to see if any updates are available for your computer.
Online Resources For online service and support information, go to www.apple.com/support. Choose your country from the pop-up menu. You can search the AppleCare Knowledge Base, check for software updates, or get help from Apple’s discussion forums. Onscreen Help You can often find answers to your questions, as well as instructions and troubleshooting information, in Mac Help. Choose Help > Mac Help. System Profiler To get information about your Mac mini, use System Profiler.
Note: Your 90 days of complimentary telephone support begins on the date of purchase and telephone fees may apply. Country Phone Website United States 1-800-275-2273 www.apple.com/support Australia (61) 1-300-321-456 www.apple.com/au/support Canada (English) (French) 1-800-263-3394 www.apple.com/ca/support www.apple.com/ca/fr/support Ireland (353) 1850 946 191 www.apple.com/ie/support New Zealand 00800-7666-7666 www.apple.com/nz/support United Kingdom 0844 209 0611 www.apple.
4 4 Last, but Not Least www.apple.
For your safety and that of your equipment, follow these rules for handling and cleaning your Mac mini and for working more comfortably. Keep these instructions handy for reference by you and others. NOTICE: Incorrect storage or use of your computer may void the manufacturer’s warranty. Important Safety Information WARNING: Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in fire, electric shock, or other injury or damage.
 Use the power adapter that came with your computer. Your Mac mini uses a 110 watt power adapter.  The only way to disconnect power completely is to unplug the power cord. Make sure you pull the plug, not the cord. WARNING: It is normal for the power adapter to get warm during use. Always allow adequate ventilation and avoid prolonged contact.
Hearing damage Permanent hearing loss may occur if earbuds or headphones are used at high volume. You can adapt over time to a higher volume of sound that may sound normal but can be damaging to your hearing. If you experience ringing in your ears or muffled speech, stop listening and have your hearing checked. The louder the volume, the less time is required before your hearing could be affected.
Important: Electrical equipment may be hazardous if misused. Operation of this product, or similar products, must always be supervised by an adult. Do not allow children access to the interior of any electrical product and do not permit them to handle any cables. WARNING: Never push objects of any kind into this product through the ventilation openings in the case. Doing so may be dangerous and damage your computer. Do Not Make Repairs Yourself Your Mac mini doesn’t have any user-serviceable parts.
 Relative humidity: 5% to 95% (noncondensing)  Maximum operating altitude: 10,000 feet (3048 meters) Turning on your Mac mini Never turn on your Mac mini unless all of its internal and external parts are in place. Operating the computer when parts are missing may be dangerous and may damage your computer. Carrying your Mac mini Before you lift or reposition your Mac mini, shut it down and disconnect all cables and cords connected to it.
Understanding Ergonomics Here are some tips for setting up a healthy work environment. Keyboard When you use the keyboard, your shoulders should be relaxed. Your upper arm and forearm should form an approximate right angle, with your wrist and hand in roughly a straight line. Change hand positions often to avoid fatigue. Some computer users might develop discomfort in their hands, wrists, or arms after intensive work without breaks.
Display Arrange the display so that the top of the screen is slightly below eye level when you’re sitting at the keyboard. The best distance from your eyes to the screen is up to you, although most people seem to prefer 18 to 28 inches (45 to 70 cm). Position the display to minimize glare and reflections on the screen from overhead lights and nearby windows. If possible, use a tiltable display stand.
Apple and the Environment Apple Inc. recognizes its responsibility to minimize the environmental impact of its operations and products. More information is available on the web: www.apple.
Regulatory Compliance Information Compliance Statement This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. See instructions if interference to radio or television reception is suspected.
Responsible party (contact for FCC matters only): Apple Inc. Corporate Compliance 1 Infinite Loop, MS 26-A Cupertino, CA 95014 Bluetooth Europe—EU Declaration of Conformity Wireless Radio Use See www.apple.com/euro/compliance. This device is restricted to indoor use when operating in the 5.15 to 5.25 GHz frequency band. Korea Warning Statements This wireless device complies with the R&TTE Directive. Europe—EU Declaration of Conformity Cet appareil doit être utilisé à l’intérieur.
Taiwan Class B Statement For more information about ENERGY STAR®, visit: www.energystar.gov VCCI Class B Statement External USB Modem Information When connecting your Mac mini to the phone line using an external USB modem, refer to the telecommunications agency information in the documentation that came with your modem. ENERGY STAR® Compliance As an ENERGY STAR® partner, Apple has determined that standard configurations of this product meet the ENERGY STAR® guidelines for energy efficiency.
Disposal and Recycling Information Taiwan: This symbol indicates that your product must be disposed of properly according to local laws and regulations. When your product reaches its end of life, contact Apple or your local authorities to learn about recycling options. European Union—Disposal Information For information about Apple’s recycling program, go to www.apple.com/environment/recycling. Battery Disposal Information Dispose of batteries according to your local environmental laws and guidelines.
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Index A adapters Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter 15 Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter 15 Mini-DVI to VGA Adapter 15 AirPort Extreme antenna 29 overview 29 problems 51 using 34 AppleCare Protection Plan 53 support information 53 Apple Hardware Test 47 Apple Remote 35 buttons 32 using 32 applications Force Quit 40 Front Row 29, 35 iLife 34, 43 installing 43 Keynote 29 troubleshooting 46 assistants Migration Assistant 17 70 Looking for Something? Network Setup Assistant 48 Setup Assistant 16 audio in port 31 audio ou
environment 64 erasing a disk 46 ergonomics 62 Ethernet port 31 external USB modem 31, 67 F factory settings 42 features 28, 30 Finder 33 FireWire connections 34 port 31 flashing question mark 41 Force Quit, an application 40 Front Row application 29, 35 Internet connecting 12 connection problems 48 IP address sharing 50 masquerading 51 iTunes Store 17 K external USB 31, 67 mouse connecting 13 ergonomics 62 USB connection 14, 31 wireless 14 N keyboard equivalents 14 ergonomics 62 Keyboard preferences
P R parameter RAM, resetting 41 partner computer Disk Utility 46 DVD or CD Sharing 18 installing Mac OS X 43 resetting your password 45 password, resetting 45 ports audio in 31 audio out 31 Ethernet 31 FireWire 800 31 headphone 31 power 31 USB 13, 31 video 15, 31 power adapter plugging in 57 port 11 power button 16, 31 power indicator light 29 power socket 31 power specifications 58 PPPoE connections 50 problems See troubleshooting product serial number 54 reinstalling software 42 remote delete pairing 3
transferring information 16 System Profiler 53 T V telephone support 54 transferring information 16 troubleshooting AirPort problems 51 AppleCare 53 application problems 46 computer freezes 41 computer won’t respond 40 computer won’t turn on 41 date and time settings 47 ejecting a disc 47 force quit an application 40 Internet connection 48 PPPoE connections 50 reinstalling Mac OS X 42 resetting PRAM 41 service and support 52 using Mac Help 53 turning on your Mac mini 16 typing position 62 verifying a d
K Apple Inc. © 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Apple. The Apple logo is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Use of the “keyboard” Apple logo (Option-Shift-K) for commercial purposes without the prior written consent of Apple may constitute trademark infringement and unfair competition in violation of federal and state laws.
