Apple Mac Mini Mid2011 User Guide
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61 Chapter 4 Problem, Meet Solution ÂMake sure your Mac mini is within antenna range of the other computer or the network’s access point. Nearby electronic devices or metal structures can interfere with wireless communication and reduce this range. Repositioning or rotating your Mac mini or the other computer might improve reception. ÂCheck the Wi-Fi status menu (Z) in the menu bar. Up to four bars appear, indicating signal strength. If the signal strength is weak, try changing your location. ÂChoose Help > Help Center, and then search for “Airport.” Also see the instructions that came with the wireless device. Keeping Your Software Up to Date You can connect to the Internet and automatically download and install the latest versions of free software, drivers, and other enhancements from Apple. When your Mac mini is 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. 2 Click the Software Update icon and follow the instructions on the screen. For more information, search for “Software Update” in Help Center. For the latest server troubleshooting information and software updates, go to the Lion Server website at www.apple.com/macosx/server.
62Chapter 4 Problem, Meet Solution Learning More, Service, and Support Your Mac mini doesn’t have any user-serviceable parts, except the memory. If you need service, take your Mac mini to an Apple Authorized Service Provider or contact Apple for service. You can find more information about your Mac mini through online resources, onscreen help, System Information, or Apple Hardware Test. If you want a certified technician to install additional memory, contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or an Apple Retail Store. 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 Help Center. In the Finder, choose Help > Help Center. System Information To get information about your Mac mini, use System Information. It shows you what hardware and software is installed, the serial number and operating system version, how much memory is installed, and more. Open System Information (in the Utilities folder in Launchpad).
63 Chapter 4 Problem, Meet Solution AppleCare Service and Support Your Mac mini comes with 90 days of technical support and one year of hardware repair warranty coverage at an Apple Retail Store or an Apple-authorized repair center, such as an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP). You can extend your coverage by purchasing the AppleCare Protection Plan. For information, visit www.apple.com/support/products or visit the website address for your country listed in the table. 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. 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. AppleCare OS Support delivers consultative telephone and email support for networking and workflow issues in Mac OS X Lion Server environments. AppleCare Help Desk Support provides graphical user interface–level assistance with Mac OS X Server network configuration and server administration. AppleCare OS Support plans also include support for command-line tools and mixed platform integration. Choose from three levels of AppleCare OS Support—Select, Preferred, or Alliance. For more information, visit www.apple.com/support/products/enterprise or visit the website for your country listed in the table.
64Chapter 4 Problem, Meet Solution Country PhoneWebsite United States 1-800-275-2273www.apple.com/support Australia (61) 1-300-321-456www.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 191www.apple.com/ie/support New Zealand 00800-7666-7666www.apple.com/nz/support United Kingdom (44) 0844 209 0611www.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/support/contact/phone_contacts.html Locating Your Product Serial Number Use any of these methods to find your Mac mini serial number: ÂLook on the bottom of your Mac mini. ÂChoose Apple () from the menu bar, and choose About This Mac. Click the version number beneath the words “Mac OS X” to cycle through the Mac OS X version number, the build version, and the serial number. ÂOpen System Information (in the Utilities folder in Launchpad) and click Hardware.
www.apple.com/environment Help Center ergonomics Last, but Not Least 5
66Chapter 5 Last, but Not Least 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. Proper handling Set up your Mac mini on a stable work surface that allows for adequate air circulation under and around the computer. Do not operate your Mac mini on a pillow or other soft material, as the material can block the airflow vents. Never push objects into the ventilation openings. Water and wet locations Keep your Mac mini away from sources of liquid, such as drinks, washbasins, bathtubs, shower stalls, and so on. Protect your Mac mini from dampness or wet weather, such as rain, snow, and fog. 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. Hearing experts suggest that to protect your hearing:
67 Chapter 5 Last, but Not Least ÂLimit the amount of time you use earbuds or headphones at high volume. ÂAvoid turning up the volume to block out noisy surroundings. ÂTurn the volume down if you can’t hear people speaking near you. High-risk activities This computer system is not intended for use in the operation of nuclear facilities, aircraft navigation or communications systems, air traffic control systems, or for any other uses where the failure of the computer system could lead to death, personal injury, or severe environmental damage. 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. Do Not Make Repairs Yourself Your Mac mini doesn’t have any user-serviceable parts, except for memory. To install memory, follow the instructions in Chapter 3. Except for memory, do not attempt to replace or repair any components inside your Mac mini. If your Mac mini needs service, consult an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple. See “Learning More, Service, and Support” on page 62. WARNING: Making adjustments or performing procedures other than those specified in your equipment’s manual may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
68Chapter 5 Last, but Not Least If you install items other than memory, you risk damaging your equipment, and such damage isn’t covered by the limited warranty on your Mac mini. 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. Important Handling Information NOTICE: Failure to follow these handling instructions could result in damage to your Mac mini or other property. Operating environment Operating your Mac mini outside these ranges may affect performance: ÂOperating temperature: 50° to 95° F (10° to 35° C) ÂStorage temperature: -40° to 116° F (-40° to 47° C) ÂRelative humidity: 5% to 95% (noncondensing) ÂMaximum 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 your Mac mini when parts are missing may be dangerous and may damage your Mac mini.
69 Chapter 5 Last, but Not Least 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 get stuck inside a port. Using connectors and ports Never force a connector into a port. When connecting a device, make sure the port is free of debris, that the connector matches the port, and that you have positioned the connector correctly in relation to the port. Storing your Mac mini If you are going to store your Mac mini for an extended period of time, keep it in a cool location (ideally, 71° F or 22° C). Cleaning your Mac mini When cleaning the outside of your Mac mini, first shut down your Mac mini and unplug the power cord. Then use a damp, soft, lint-free cloth to clean the computer’s exterior. Avoid getting moisture in any openings. Do not spray liquid directly on the computer. Do not use aerosol sprays, solvents, or abrasives that might damage the finish.
70Chapter 5 Last, but Not Least 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. 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. Adjust the height of the chair so your thighs are horizontal and your feet are flat on the floor. The back of the chair should support your lower back (lumbar region). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting the backrest to fit your body properly. You might have to raise your chair so that your forearms and hands are at the proper angle to the keyboard. If this makes it impossible to rest your feet flat on the floor, use a footrest with adjustable height and tilt to make up for any gap between the floor and your feet. Or you can lower the desktop to eliminate the need for a footrest. Another option is to use a desk with a keyboard tray that’s lower than the regular work surface.