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 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 What’s in the Box 11 Setting Up Your Mac mini 18 Putting Your Mac mini to Sleep or Shutting It Down Chapter 2: Life with Your Mac mini 22 What’s on the Front of Your Mac mini 24 What’s on the Back of Your Mac mini 26 Getting Answers Chapter 3: Problem, Meet Solution 32 34 35 36 37 40 40 41 43 Problems That Prevent You from Using Your Mac mini Reinstalling the Software That Came with Your Mac mini Other Problems Using Apple Hardware Test Problems with Your Internet
Chapter 4: Last, but Not Least 47 50 52 54 55 Important Safety Information Important Handling Information Understanding Ergonomics Apple and the Environment Regulatory Compliance Information Looking for Something? 60 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 47 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.
To use a dial-up connection, you need the external Apple USB Modem, available from the online Apple Store at www.apple.com/store or from an Apple Authorized Reseller. Plug the Apple USB Modem into a USB port on your Mac mini, and then use a phone cord (not included) to connect the modem to a phone jack. 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. If you use a USB keyboard that is not specifically designed for the Mac OS, it may not have a Command (x) or Option 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.
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 quickly, 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 22 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) 24 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.
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 Changing System Preferences System Preferences by choosing Apple (K) > System Preferences. Or search for “system preferences” in Mac Help. 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 The Bluetooth Support page at www.apple.com/support/ bluetooth. Or open Mac Help and search for “Bluetooth.” Connecting a printer Mac Help and search for “printing.
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 is 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.
 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.  Open a Finder window and click the Eject (C) button next to the disc icon in the sidebar, or drag the disc icon from the desktop to the Trash.  If that doesn’t work, restart your computer while holding down the mouse button.
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. 6 If Apple Hardware Test detects a problem, it displays an error code. Make a note of the error code before pursuing support options. If Apple Hardware Test doesn’t detect a hardware failure, the problem may be software-related.
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.
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. Choose Ethernet if you are connecting to a wired network, or AirPort if you are connecting to a wireless network. 5 Enter the information you received from your service provider, such as the account name, password, and PPPoE service name (if your service provider requires it).
Problems with AirPort Extreme Wireless Communication If you have trouble using AirPort Extreme wireless communication: Â Make sure the computer or network you are trying to connect to is running and has a wireless access point. Â Make sure you have properly configured the software according to the instructions that came with your base station or access point. Â Make sure you are within antenna range of the other computer or the network’s access point.
To check for updated software: 1 Choose Apple () > System Preferences. 2 Click the Software Update icon and follow the instructions on the screen. Â For more information, search for “Software Update” in Mac Help. Â For the latest information about Mac OS X, go to www.apple.com/macosx. Learning More, Service, and Support Your Mac mini does not have any user-serviceable parts. If you need service, take your Mac mini to an Apple Authorized Service Provider or contact Apple for service.
System Profiler To get information about your Mac mini, use System Profiler. System Profiler shows you which hardware and software is installed, the serial number and operating system version, how much memory is installed, and more. To open System Profiler, choose Apple () > About This Mac from the menu bar and then click More Info.
Country Phone Ireland (353) 1850 946 191 Website www.apple.com/ie/support New Zealand 00800-7666-7666 www.apple.com/nz/support United Kingdom (44) 0870 876 0753 www.apple.com/uk/support Telephone numbers are subject to change, and local and national telephone rates may apply. A complete list is available on the web: www.apple.com/contact/phone_contacts.
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 95014-2084 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 A adapters Mini DisplayPort to VGA Adapter 15 Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter 15 Mini-DVI to VGA Adapter 15 AirPort Extreme antenna 23 overview 23 problems 40 using 27 AppleCare Protection Plan 42 support information 42 Apple Hardware Test 36 Apple Remote 27 applications Force Quit 32 Front Row 23, 27 iLife 26, 35 installing 35 Keynote 23 troubleshooting 35 assistants Migration Assistant 17 Network Setup Assistant 37 Setup Assistant 16 60 Looking for Something? audio in port 25 audio out port 25 dial-up m
external USB modem 13, 25, 57 K N F keyboard equivalents 14 ergonomics 52 Keyboard & Mouse preferences 14 USB ports 14 wireless 14 Keynote application 23 network 12 address translation (NAT) 39 connections 39 diagnostics 37 setup assistant 37 wireless 12 number, serial 43 M O Mac Help 17, 26, 31, 41 Mac mini features 22, 24 Mac OS X installing 34 website 26 Migration Assistant 17 Mini DisplayPort 15, 25 Mini-DVI port 15, 25 Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter 15 Mini-DVI to VGA Adapter 15 modem cable 25 DSL 25
USB 14, 25 video 15, 25 power adapter plugging in 47 port 11 power button 16, 25 power indicator light 23 power socket 25 power specifications 48 PPPoE connections 38 problems See troubleshooting product serial number 43 Q question mark, flashing 33 R reinstalling software 34 repairs 50 resetting parameter RAM (PRAM) 33 S safety important information 47 optical drive 49 power adapter 47 security slot 25 serial number, finding 43 service and support 41 setting up 62 Looking for Something? display 15 Et
transferring information 16 V VGA display 15 video port 25 W wireless AirPort Extreme 23 Bluetooth technology 10, 23 keyboard 14 mouse 14 networking 12 Looking for Something? 63
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.