Congratulations, you and your Mac mini were made for each other.
Contents Chapter 1: Ready, Set Up, Go 7 8 9 16 17 20 Working with Mac OS X Server What’s in the Box Setting Up Your Mac mini Setting Up DVD or CD Sharing Getting Additional Information onto Your Mac mini Putting Your Mac mini to Sleep or Shutting It Down Chapter 2: Life with Your Mac mini 24 26 28 30 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 36 38 41 42 42 Problems That Prevent You from Using Your Ma
5 46 46 50 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 53 56 57 60 61 Important Safety Information Important Handling Information Understanding Ergonomics Apple and the Environment Regulatory Compliance Information Looking for Something? 66 Index 4 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 53 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 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 Mac OS X Server Assistant. The first time you turn on your Mac mini, Mac OS X Server Assistant asks for some basic information that Mac OS X Server needs in order to start up and connect to the network. Be ready to provide the following information the first time you turn on your Mac mini: Â A server administrator account name and password. Â Your Mac OS X Server software serial number.
 Whether you’ll create user and group accounts on your Mac mini, or use accounts from an existing directory service. For a list of information needed to fully configure your Mac mini using Server Assistant, see Mac OS X Server: Installation and Setup Worksheet on the Mac OS X Server Install DVD or on the Apple Server Resources website at www.apple.com/server/macosx/resources. If you already have a Mac with Mac OS X Server version 10.4, 10.5, or 10.
Setting Up DVD or CD Sharing You can use DVD or CD sharing to partner with another Mac or Windows computer that has an optical disc drive and is on the same wired or wireless network.
Getting Additional Information onto Your Mac mini If you want to install third-party 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. Sharing Discs with DVD or CD Sharing You can enable DVD or CD Sharing on a Mac or Windows computer to use the Remote Disc feature of your Mac mini.
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 Bluetooth antenna 24 Chapter 2 Life with Your Mac mini Infrared (IR) receiver 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) 26 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 or 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.
To pair your Apple Remote with your Mac mini: 1 Move very close to your Mac mini (within 3 to 4 inches or 8 to 10 cm). 2 Point the Apple Remote at the front of your Mac mini. 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.
Getting Answers More information about using your Mac mini is available in Mac Help on your computer, and on the Internet at www.apple.com/support. To open Mac Help: 1 Click the Finder icon in the Dock (the bar of icons along the edge of the screen). 2 Click the Help menu in the menu bar and do one of the following: a Type a question or term in the Search field, and select a topic from the list of results or select Show All Results to see all topics.
To learn about See Using AirPort Extreme wireless technology The AirPort Support page at www.apple.com/support/airport. Or open Mac Help and search for “AirPort.” Using Bluetooth wireless technology Mac Help and search for “Bluetooth.” Or go to the Bluetooth Support page at www.apple.com/support/bluetooth. Connecting a printer Mac Help and search for “printing.” FireWire and USB connections Mac Help and search for “FireWire” or “USB.” Connecting to the Internet Mac Help and search for “Internet.
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 Software Using Remote Install Mac OS X Use Remote Install Mac OS X on a partner computer whose optical disc drive you want to share, when you want to do any of the following tasks on your Mac mini:  Reinstall Mac OS X Server and other software that came with your Mac mini  Reset your password  Use Disk Utility to repair the Mac mini hard disk Instructions for installing the DVD or CD Sharing Setup software are on page 16.
3 Read the introduction and click Continue. 4 Select the installation disc you want to use, and click Continue. 5 Select a network connection: AirPort, if you ‘re using an AirPort network, or Ethernet, if the other computer is on an Ethernet network. Click Continue. 6 Restart your Mac mini and hold down the Option key as it starts up, until you see a list of available startup disks. 7 Choose a startup disk. 8 Click Continue in Remote Install Mac OS X.
Resetting Your Password You can reset your administrator password and passwords for all other accounts. To reset your password, using a partner computer and Remote Install Mac OS X: 1 Follow the procedure for using Remote Install Mac OS X beginning on page 38. 2 Click Continue in Remote Install Mac OS X. 3 On your Mac mini, choose Utilities > Reset Password from the menu bar and follow the onscreen instructions. When you finish, quit Mac OS X Installer.
Other Problems If you have a problem with an application For problems with software from a manufacturer other than Apple, contact the manufacturer. Software manufacturers often provide updates to their software on their websites. You can set your Mac mini to check for and install the latest Apple software automatically using the Software Update pane of System Preferences. For more information, choose Help > Mac Help and search for “software update.
Using Apple Server Diagnostics If you suspect a problem with your Mac mini hardware, use Apple Server Diagnostics to help determine if there’s a problem with one of the computer’s components. To use Apple Server Diagnostics: 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.
If you have trouble with your Internet connection, you can try the steps in this section for your type of connection or you can use Network Diagnostics. 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.
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.
If you want additional memory installed, contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or an Apple Store retail location. 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.
Apple also offers expert support for Mac OS X Server. Beyond the scope of the complimentary 90-day support, these products offer assistance with in-depth technical issues for one full year. 2 Mac OS X Server Software Support delivers consultative telephone1 and email support for networking and workflow issues in Mac OS X Server environments, including support for command-line tools and mixed-platform integration.
If you need assistance, AppleCare telephone support representatives can help you with installing and opening applications, and basic troubleshooting. Call the support center number nearest you (the first 90 days are complimentary). Have the purchase date and your Mac mini serial number ready when you call. Note: Your 90 days of complimentary telephone support begins on the date of purchase and telephone fees may apply. Country Phone United States 1-800-275-2273 Website www.apple.
Locating Your Product Serial Number Use any of these methods to find your Mac mini serial number: Â Choose Apple () from the menu bar and then choose About This Mac. Click the version number beneath the words “Mac OS X Server” to cycle through the Mac OS X Server version number, the build version, and the serial number. Â Open System Profiler (in /Applications/Utilities/) and click Hardware. Â Look on the bottom of your Mac mini.
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.
Do Not Make Repairs Yourself Your Mac mini doesn’t have any user-serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open your Mac mini. If your Mac mini needs service, consult the service and support information that came with your computer for instructions about how to contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple for service. If you open your Mac mini or install items, you risk damaging your equipment, and such damage isn’t covered by the limited warranty on your Mac mini.
Carrying your Mac mini Before you lift or reposition your Mac mini, shut it down and disconnect all cables and cords connected to it. If you carry your Mac mini in a bag or briefcase, make sure that there are no loose items (such as paper clips or coins) that could accidentally get inside the computer through vent openings or the optical drive slot or get stuck inside a port. Using connectors and ports Never force a connector into a port.
Change hand positions often to avoid fatigue. Some computer users might develop discomfort in their hands, wrists, or arms after intensive work without breaks. If you begin to develop chronic pain or discomfort in your hands, wrists, or arms, consult a qualified health specialist. Mouse Position the mouse at the same height as the keyboard and within a comfortable reach. Chair An adjustable chair that provides firm, comfortable support is best.
Position the display to minimize glare and reflections on the screen from overhead lights and nearby windows. If possible, use a tiltable display stand. The stand lets you set the display at the best angle for viewing, helping to reduce or eliminate glare from lighting sources you can’t move. Shoulders relaxed 18–28 in.
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.
Looking for Something?
Index 66 A audio out port 27 adapters Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter 13 Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter 13 Mini-DVI to VGA Adapter 13 AirPort Extreme antenna 25 overview 25 problems 45 using 31 AppleCare Protection Plan 47 support information 47 Apple Remote 31 buttons 28 using 28 Apple Server Diagnostics 42 applications Force Quit 36 Front Row 25, 31 Keynote 25 troubleshooting 41 assistants Network Setup Assistant 42 Server Assistant 14 audio in port 27 B Looking for Something? battery disposal 64 Bluetoot
FireWire connections 31 port 27 flashing question mark 37 Force Quit, an application 36 Front Row application 25, 31 H hand positions 57 headphone port 27 I infrared turning off reception 29 infrared receiver 25 installation instructions 7 installing applications 41 installing DVD or CD Sharing 16 Internet connecting 10 connection problems 42 IP address sharing 44 masquerading 45 K keyboard equivalents 12 ergonomics 57 Keyboard preferences 12 USB ports 11, 12 wireless 12 Keynote application 25 M Mac He
power indicator light 25 power socket 27 power specifications 54 PPPoE connections 44 problems See troubleshooting product serial number 50 Q question mark, flashing 37 R remote delete pairing 28 overview 28 pairing 28 turning off IR reception 29 using 28 Remote Disc 17, 19 Remote Install Mac OS X Disk Utility 40 installing Mac OS X 38 resetting your password 40 repairing a disk 40 repairs 56 resetting parameter RAM (PRAM) 37 resetting your password 40 S safety important information 53 68 Looking for S
V verifying a disk 40 VGA display 13 video port 27 W wireless AirPort Extreme 25 Bluetooth technology 8, 25 keyboard 12 mouse 12 networking 10 Looking for Something? 69
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