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 Shutting Down Your Mac mini Chapter 2: Life with Your Mac mini 24 26 28 28 What’s on the Front of Your Mac mini What’s on the Back of Your Mac mini Using SD Cards Getting Answers Chapter 3: Boost Your Memory 34 Installing Memory Chapter 4: Problem, Meet Solution 44 Problems That Prevent You from Using
9 50 50 53 54 54 58 Other Problems Using Apple Server Diagnostics 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 5: Last, but Not Least 61 63 65 67 69 Important Safety Information Important Handling Information Understanding Ergonomics Apple and the Environment Regulatory Compliance Information Looking for Something? 74 Index 4 Contents
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: Before you plug your Mac mini into a power outlet, read all the installation instructions and the safety information starting on page 61. 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: Power cord HDMI to DVI Adapter Follow the steps on the next several pages to set up your Mac mini.
Setting Up Your Mac mini Place your Mac mini right side up on a firm surface. Use only the power cord that came with your Mac mini; other power cords may not work. Important: Cooling air enters your Mac mini through the gap around the bottom cover and exits through the vent on the back. Don’t place your Mac mini on a soft surface (such as a blanket or carpet) that interferes with airflow around the bottom cover, and don’t block the back vent.
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. ® HDMI 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. ® HDMI You can connect 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. Note: Your Mac mini doesn’t come with a keyboard or a mouse, and they are not required.
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, but, if desired, you can connect a display or television that has: ÂÂ A Mini DisplayPort connector. Connect directly to the Mini DisplayPort. ÂÂ An HDMI connector. Connect directly to the HDMI port. ÂÂ A DVI connector. Use the HDMI to DVI Adapter that came with your Mac mini to connect to the HDMI port. ÂÂ A VGA connector.
Step 5: Press the power (®) button on the back to turn on your Mac mini. ® ® HDMI 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.
ÂÂ Whether you’ll create user and group accounts on your Mac mini, or use accounts from an existing directory service For help setting up Mac OS X Server remotely on a Mac mini without a keyboard, mouse, or display, see Chapter 4 of Mac OS X Server: Getting Started, which came with your Mac mini.
Setting Up DVD or CD Sharing You can use DVD or CD Sharing to give your Mac mini access to the optical drive in another Mac or Windows computer on the same network.
Important: After you install the DVD or CD Sharing Setup package on the other Mac, make sure you have the latest software by choosing Apple () > Software Update. Install any available Mac OS X updates. Using an External Optical Drive For direct access to CDs and DVDs, you can attach an Apple MacBook Air SuperDrive to a USB port on your Mac mini.
To enable DVD or CD Sharing, if your other computer is a Mac: 1 Make sure your Mac mini and the other Mac are on the same wireless network. Click the AirPort (Z) status icon in the menu bar to see what network you’re connected to. 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.
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 Remote Disc when it appears under Devices in the Finder sidebar. If you see the “Ask to use” button, click it.
Shutting Down Your Mac mini To shut down your Mac mini: ÂÂ Choose Apple () > Shut Down. To turn it on again, press the power (®) button. NOTICE: Shut down your Mac mini before moving it. Moving your Mac mini while the hard disk is spinning can damage the hard disk, causing loss of data or an inability to start up from the hard disk. Putting Your Mac mini to Sleep Mac OS X Server is normally set to prevent your Mac mini from sleeping because users can’t connect to services while the computer sleeps.
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 has links 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 Built-in infrared (IR) receiver Memory access cover 24 Chapter 2 Life with Your Mac mini Power indicator light
Built-in infrared (IR) receiver Use an Apple Remote (available separately) with the IR receiver to control Front Row, play music from your iTunes library, watch photo slideshows and movie trailers, or play a DVD on your Mac mini—all from up to 30 feet (9.1 meters) away. Power indicator light A steady white light indicates your Mac mini is on; a pulsing light indicates it’s in sleep. Memory access cover (on bottom) The removable foot provides easy access to the memory module slots.
What’s on the Back of Your Mac mini Power port Power button HDMI HDMI Mini DisplayPort port Cool air inlet (around foot) FireWire 800 port 26 SD card slot HDMI ® Gigabit Ethernet port (10/100/1000 Base-T) USB 2.
~ Power port Connect the power cord that came with your Mac mini. HDMI HDMI port Connect a TV or other device that uses an HDMI connector. £ Mini DisplayPort Connect a display that uses a Mini DisplayPort connector. d Four high-speed USB (Universal Serial Bus) 2.0 ports Connect an iPod, iPhone, iPad, mouse, keyboard, printer, disk drive, digital camera, joystick, external USB modem, and more. You can also connect USB 1.1 devices. SD card slot Insert a standard Secure Digital (SD) card.
Using SD Cards The SD card slot on the back of your Mac mini accepts most standard SD (Secure Digital), SDHC (SD High-Capacity), and SDXC (SD Extended Capacity) cards from digital cameras and other devices. You can also use MiniSD, MicroSD, and other smaller cards in a passive adapter. For more information about card sizes, speeds, and capacities, search for “SD” on the Apple Support website at www.apple.com/support.
More Information For more information about using your Mac mini, see the following: To learn about See Troubleshooting Mac mini if you have a problem Chapter 4, “Problem, Meet Solution” on page 41. Finding service and support for your Mac mini “Learning More, Service, and Support” on page 54, or go to the Mac mini Support site at www.apple.com/support/macmini. Using Mac OS X Server The Mac OS X Server site at www.apple.com/server/macosx. Or search for “Mac OS X Server” in Mac Help.
To learn about See Specifications The Specifications page at www.apple.com/support/specs. Or open System Profiler, by choosing Apple (K) > About This Mac from the menu bar and then clicking More Info. Apple news, free downloads, and online catalogs of software and hardware The Apple site at www.apple.com. Instructions, technical support, and manuals for Apple products The Apple Support site at www.apple.com/support.
3 Boost Your Memory www.apple.
Your Mac mini came with at least 2 gigabytes (GB) of memory on a pair of 1 GB memory modules. You can replace these with a pair of 2 GB or 4 GB memory modules, for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. The following pages show you how to install memory modules in your Mac mini. WARNING: Apple recommends that you have an Apple-certified technician install memory. To arrange for installation, contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or an Apple Store retail location.
Installing Memory Your Mac mini has two memory slots in which you can install a pair of 1 GB, 2 GB, or 4 GB memory modules, for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. For best performance, don’t mix sizes; always install two identical memory modules.
Step 3: Remove the bottom cover. Lay your Mac mini upside down on a soft cloth or towel, and then rotate the bottom cover counterclockwise to the unlocked position. Unlocked Press on the cover to pop up the opposite side, and then remove the cover.
Step 4: Remove the original memory modules. Gently spread the clips at the ends of the top memory module just enough to let the free edge pop up. Retainer clips Pull the module out of the slot. Repeat to remove the second, bottom module.
Step 5: Install the new modules. Carefully press the notched edge of the new memory module into the bottom slot while keeping the opposite edge slightly raised. Notch Press down on the raised edge until the clips snap into place. Repeat to install the top memory module.
Step 6: Replace the bottom cover. Replace the bottom cover using the alignment dots to place it in the unlocked position. Align the dots Rotate the cover clockwise to lock it in place. Locked WARNING: Don’t connect the power cord or turn on your Mac mini until you replace the bottom cover. Never operate your Mac mini without the cover in place.
Step 7: Reconnect the cables. Reconnect the power cord and any other cables you disconnected. Step 8: Check the new memory. Press the power button to turn on your Mac mini. When you see the Mac OS desktop, choose Apple () > About This Mac and check that the reported amount of memory is correct. If the reported memory size isn’t correct, or if your Mac mini repeatedly sounds three tones, it’s having trouble recognizing a memory modules.
4 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 ÂÂ Make sure the mouse and keyboard are connected. Unplug and then plug in the connectors, making sure they’re secure. ÂÂ 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 ÂÂ Wait a few seconds. If your Mac mini doesn’t start up after a delay, shut it down by pressing and holding the power (®) button for about 5 seconds. Then hold down the Option key and press the power (®) button again to start up your Mac mini. 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 If you set up DVD or CD Sharing (see page 16), you can use Remote Install Mac OS X on a computer with an optical disc drive to do any of the following tasks on your Mac mini: ÂÂ Reinstall Mac OS X Server and other software that came with your Mac mini ÂÂ Reset your password ÂÂ Use Disk Utility to check or repair the Mac mini hard disk To use Remote Install Mac OS X: 1 Insert the Mac OS X Server Install DVD into the optical disc drive of the other computer
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 you’re using 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 If you forget your administrator password, you can reset it. 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 46. 2 Click Continue in Remote Install Mac OS X. 3 On your Mac mini, select your language, and then 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 hardware problem, use Apple Server Diagnostics to determine if there’s a problem with one of the Mac mini 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. 3 When the Apple Server Diagnostics chooser screen appears, select the language you want to use.
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’re 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 your ISP provides only one IP address, then you must have a router capable of sharing the connection, also known as network address translation (NAT) or “IP masquerading.” For setup information, see the documentation provided with your router or ask the person who set up your network. You can use an AirPort base station 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.
Keeping Your Software Up to Date You can connect to the Internet and automatically download and install the latest free versions of software, drivers, and other enhancements from Apple. When you’re connected to the Internet, Software Update checks to see if any updates are available for your computer. You can set your Mac mini to check for updates periodically, and then you can download and install updated software. To check for updated software: 1 Choose Apple () > System Preferences.
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 find answers to many of 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.
1 2 Mac OS X Server Software Support delivers consultative telephone and email support for networking and workflow issues in Mac OS X Server environments, including support for command-line tools and mixed-platform integration. Mac OS X Server Software Support also includes all of the features of AppleCare Help Desk Support, described 3 below. Choose from three levels of support—Select, Preferred, or Alliance. AppleCare Help Desk Support gives you a year of expertise for your internal help 1 2 desk.
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 Website United States 1-800-275-2273 www.apple.
Locating Your Product Serial Number Use any of these methods to find your Mac mini serial number: ÂÂ Choose Apple () from the menu bar, and 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. ÂÂ Open System Profiler (in /Applications/Utilities/) and click Hardware. ÂÂ Look on the bottom of your Mac mini.
5 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.
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, except for memory. Do not attempt to remove or replace any components other than memory modules. If your Mac mini needs service, consult the service and support information that came with your Mac mini for information about how to contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple for service.
Turning on your Mac mini Never turn on your Mac mini unless all of its internal and external parts are in place. Operating your Mac mini when parts are missing may be dangerous and may damage 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.
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 FCC 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.
FCC Bluetooth Wireless Compliance Singapore Wireless Certification The antenna used with this transmitter must not be colocated or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter subject to the conditions of the FCC Grant. Bluetooth Industry Canada Statement This Class B device meets all requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations. Cet appareil numérique de la Class B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
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. The ENERGY STAR® program is a partnership with electronic equipment manufacturers to promote energyefficient products.
Disposal and Recycling Information Battery Disposal Information Dispose of batteries according to your local environmental laws and guidelines. 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. For information about Apple’s recycling program, go to www.apple.com/environment/recycling.
Looking for Something?
Index A AirPort base station 53 AirPort Extreme 25, 29 troubleshooting 53 Alt key Mac equivalent 12 AppleCare 55 Apple Remote 25, 29 Apple Server Diagnostics 50 Apple Wireless Keyboard 12, 25 audio in port 27 audio out port 27 B battery internal backup 49 Bluetooth 25 C cleaning 64 D Disk Utility 48 display adapters 13 E environment 67 ergonomics 65 74 Looking for Something? Ethernet port 27 exhaust vent 9 F FireWire port 27 H HDMI port 27 headphone port 27 I infrared receiver 25 K keyboa
T troubleshooting Airport Extreme 53 can’t start up 45 computer unresponsive 44 date and time lost 49 Disk Utility 48 flashing question mark 45 freeze during startup 45 Internet connection 50 Network Diagnostics 51 pointer won’t move 44 reinstalling software 46 resetting PRAM 45 U updating software 54 USB ports 27 V video adapters 13 W Windows key Mac equivalent 12 Looking for Something? 75
KKApple Inc © 2010 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple Remote Desktop, Finder, the FireWire logo, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc. Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Apple. AppleCare and Apple Store are service marks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this manual is accurate. Apple is not responsible for printing or clerical errors.
