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MacBook Pro
User’s Guide
Includes setup, expansion,
and troubleshooting
information for your
MacBook Pro computer

K Apple Computer, Inc.
©2006 Apple Computer, 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.
Every effort has been made to ensure that the
information in this manual is accurate. Apple is not
responsible for printing or clerical errors.
Apple
1 Infinite Loop
Cupertino, CA 95014-2084
408-996-1010
www.apple.com
Apple, the Apple logo, AirPort, AppleTalk, Final Cut Pro,
FireWire, iCal, iDVD, iLife, iMovie, iPhoto, iPod, iTunes,
Mac, Macintosh, and Mac OS are trademarks of
Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other
countries.
AirPort Express, Exposé, FileVault, Finder, the FireWire
logo, iSight, MacBook, Safari, Spotlight, SuperDrive,
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are trademarks of their respective companies. Mention
of third-party products is for informational purposes
only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a
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regard to the performance or use of these products.
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uses only.
Simultaneously published in the United States and
Canada.

Contents

7
8
16
18
20
22
24
25

Chapter 1: Getting Started
Setting Up Your MacBook Pro
Basic Features of Your MacBook Pro
Keyboard Features of Your MacBook Pro
Additional Features of Your MacBook Pro
Putting Your MacBook Pro to Sleep or Shutting It Down
Calibrating Your Battery
Getting More Information

27
28
30
31
33
34
35
39
42

Chapter 2: Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro
Adjusting Your Display
Using Your Power Adapter
Using the Trackpad
Using the Keyboard
Using a Mouse
Using the Apple Remote and Front Row
Using the Built-in iSight Camera
Getting Answers Using Mac Help

44
45
46
47
47
48

Learning About Mac OS X
Customizing Your Desktop and Setting Your Preferences
Using Applications
When an Application Does Not Respond
Keeping Your Software Up to Date
Connecting to a Printer

49 Playing a CD and Connecting Headphones
50 Connecting a Camera or Other FireWire or USB Device
50 Transferring Files to Another Computer
53
54
57
61
62
64
66
67
71
72
76
77
81

Chapter 3: Using Your MacBook Pro
Using Universal Serial Bus Devices
Connecting with FireWire
Using ExpressCards
How AirPort Provides Wireless Internet Access
Using Bluetooth Wireless Technology
Connecting with Ethernet
Using External Video Support
Connecting Speakers and Other Audio Devices
Using Your SuperDrive
Understanding Sudden Motion Sensor Technology
Using Your Battery
Securing Your MacBook Pro

Contents

83 Chapter 4: Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro
84 Installing Additional Memory
91 Making Sure Your MacBook Pro Recognizes the New Memory
93 Chapter 5: Troubleshooting
94 Problems That Prevent You From Using Your Computer
96
99
101
102
102

Other Problems
Reinstalling the Software That Came With Your Computer
Using Apple Hardware Test
Installing Xcode Tools
Locating Your Product Serial Number

103 Appendix A: Specifications
105
105
106
107
109
111
113

Appendix B: Safety, Use, and Care Information
Understanding General Safety Instructions
Setting Up Your MacBook Pro and Power Adapter
Using Your MacBook Pro
Avoiding Hearing Damage
Understanding Ergonomics
Apple and the Environment

115 Appendix C: Connecting to the Internet
117 Gathering the Information You Need

Contents

119 Entering Your Information
121 Troubleshooting Your Connection
125 Appendix D: Top Ten Questions
131 Communications Regulation Information
135 Index

Contents

Getting Started

Your MacBook Pro includes the following
components:
®

Apple Remote

Power adapter

DVI to VGA adapter

AC power cord

Important: Read all the installation instructions and safety information (see “Safety,
Use, and Care Information” on page 105) carefully before you plug your computer into
a power outlet.
7

Setting Up Your MacBook Pro
Your MacBook Pro is designed so that you can set it up quickly and start using it right
away. The following pages take you through the setup process, including these tasks:
Â Plugging in the power adapter
Â Connecting the cables
Â Turning on your MacBook Pro
Â Configuring a user account and other settings using Setup Assistant
Step 1: Plug In the Power Adapter
If there is protective film around the power adapter, remove it before setting up your
MacBook Pro.
m Insert the AC plug of your power adapter into an outlet and the power adapter plug
into the MacBook Pro power adapter port. As you get close to the port, you will feel a
magnet, which helps draw and guide the power adapter plug in.

AC plug

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Warning: Make sure the AC plug is fully inserted into the power adapter and the
electrical prongs on your AC plug are in their completely extended position before
you plug the adapter into the power outlet.
AC plug

Power adapter plug

¯ Power adapter port
®

AC power cord

To extend the reach of your power adapter, you can attach the AC power cord. First,
pull up on the AC plug to remove it from the adapter, and then attach the included AC
power cord to the adapter. Plug the other end into a power outlet. For an illustration,
see page 30.
Step 2: Connect Your Cables
Next, for an Internet connection, connect your MacBook Pro to a DSL modem, cable
modem, external modem, or Ethernet network. If you’re connecting to a wireless
AirPort Extreme network, you don’t need cables.
For information about types of connections, see Appendix C, “Connecting to the
Internet,” on page 115.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Note: Using a dial-up connection requires the external Apple USB Modem, available for
purchase 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 the MacBook Pro,
and then connect a phone cord (not included) from the modem into a phone wall jack.
To connect to a DSL or cable modem or an Ethernet network:
m Connect the cable to your DSL or cable modem as shown in the modem instructions,
or connect the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet hub or outlet. Then connect the other
end of the cable to the computer’s Ethernet (G) port.

G Gigabit Ethernet port
(10/100/1000Base-T)

Ethernet
cable

To connect wirelessly using AirPort:
1 Turn AirPort on, if necessary, by choosing “Turn AirPort on” from the AirPort (Z) status
menu in the menu bar. AirPort detects available wireless networks.
10

Chapter 1 Getting Started

2 Choose a network from the AirPort (Z) status menu.
Step 3: Turn On Your MacBook Pro
1 To turn on the MacBook Pro, press the power (®) button briefly (up to 1 second).
Do not continue to hold down or press the power button after the startup tone or you
might cause the computer to shut down again.
When you turn on the computer, you should see the sleep indicator light turn on (and
stay on), and you should hear a tone.

® Power button
®

Sleep indicator light

It takes the MacBook Pro a few moments to start up. After it starts up, the sleep
indicator light turns off, and Setup Assistant opens automatically.
2 Use your MacBook Pro trackpad to select and move items on the screen, just like you
use a mouse with a desktop computer.
Â To move the arrow pointer on the screen, slide your finger across the trackpad.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Important: Use only one finger on the trackpad to move the pointer. The trackpad is
designed to allow scrolling when you use two fingers and the scrolling feature is
turned on by default. See “Using the Trackpad” on page 31 for more information.
Â Use the trackpad button to select, click, or double-click items on the screen.

Trackpad

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Trackpad button

Problems Turning On the Computer?
Nothing happens when you press the power (®) button.
Â The battery might be drained. Make sure that you plugged the power adapter firmly
into both the computer and a power source. The power adapter plug should light
when you plug it into the computer.
Â If the computer still doesn’t start up, see “Problems That Prevent You From Using
Your Computer” on page 94.
You see a picture of a disk or a folder with a blinking question mark.
This icon usually means that the computer can’t find the system software on the hard
disk or any disks attached to the computer. Disconnect all external peripherals and try
restarting. Hold down the power (®) button for 8 to 10 seconds until the computer
turns off. Then press the power button again. If the problem persists, you might need
to reinstall the system software. See “Reinstalling the Software That Came With Your
Computer” on page 99.
Step 4: Configuring With Setup Assistant
The first time you turn on your computer, Setup Assistant starts. Setup Assistant helps
you enter your Internet and email information and set up a user account on your
computer.
If you already have a Mac, Setup Assistant can help you automatically transfer files,
applications, and other information from your previous Mac to your new MacBook Pro.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

To transfer information, make sure:
Â Your other Mac has built-in FireWire and supports FireWire Target Disk Mode
Â Your other Mac has Mac OS X v10.1 or later installed
Â You have a standard 6-pin to 6-pin FireWire cable
Setup Assistant takes you through the process of transferring your information—just
follow the onscreen instructions. Transferring information to your MacBook Pro does
not affect the information on your other Mac. (If you set up partitions on the new
MacBook Pro, all information from the other Mac will be transferred to one partition.)
Using Setup Assistant, you can transfer:
Â User accounts, including preferences and email.
Â Network settings, so your new MacBook Pro is automatically set up to work with the
same network settings as your other Mac.
Â Files and folders on the hard disk and partitions. This gives you easy access to the
files and folders you used on your old Mac.
Â The Applications folder, so most of the applications you used on your other Mac are
now on your new MacBook Pro. (You may need to reinstall some of the applications
you transfer.)
Important: Use caution when you transfer applications so that you don’t overwrite
later versions of the applications already installed on your MacBook Pro.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

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 Music
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 (you can have only five authorized computers at a time for an iTunes account).
If you don’t use Setup Assistant to transfer information when you first start up your
computer, you can do it later using Migration Assistant. Go to the Applications folder,
open Utilities, and double-click Migration Assistant.
Note: If you used Setup Assistant to transfer information from an older Macintosh and
you want to use Migration Assistant to transfer information from it again, make sure
FileVault is turned off on the older Macintosh. To turn off FileVault, open the Security
pane of System Preferences and click Turn Off FileVault. Follow the onscreen
instructions.
Setup Assistant can also take you through the process of setting up your computer to
connect to the Internet. For home users, Internet access requires an account with an
Internet service provider (ISP). Fees may apply. If you already have an Internet account,
see Appendix C, “Connecting to the Internet,” on page 115 for information you’ll need
to enter.
Congratulations, you’re up and running!

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Basic Features of Your MacBook Pro
iSight camera

Camera indicator
light

Built-in stereo
speakers

Microphone

Sleep
indicator
light

Infrared
(IR) receiver
Display
release button

Trackpad
button

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Trackpad

Slot-loading
SuperDrive

® Power button

Built-in iSight camera and camera indicator light
Videoconference with others using the included iChat AV application. The green camera
indicator light illuminates when the video camera is capturing and displaying video.
Built-in stereo speakers
Listen to music, movies, games, and other multimedia files.
Microphone (built in under the left speaker grille)
Use for videoconferencing with iChat AV and to record sounds directly on your hard disk.
Sleep indicator light
Pulsates when the MacBook Pro is in sleep mode. The white light glows steadily for a short
time when you start up and shut down your MacBook Pro or when the display goes dark
to save energy.
Built-in infrared (IR) receiver
Use your Apple Remote and the built-in IR receiver to control your digital content from a
distance.
Display release button
Push to release your display and open your MacBook Pro.
Trackpad
Move the pointer on the MacBook Pro display with one finger on the trackpad; scroll with
two fingers on the trackpad.
Slot-loading SuperDrive
Optical drive that reads and writes to CDs and DVDs.

Power button
Turn your MacBook Pro on and off or put it to sleep.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Keyboard Features of Your MacBook Pro

Function
key (fn)

— Mute
esc

Brightness
controls

- Volume
controls

Chapter 1 Getting Started

num
lock

C Media

i Video Mode

Num
Lock key

control

Eject key

Toggle key
F6

F10

ø Keyboard illumination

controls

F11

F12

Standard
function keys

Function (Fn) key
Press and hold to activate customized actions assigned to the function keys (F1
to F12). To learn how to customize function keys, choose Help > Mac Help and
search for “function keys.”

Brightness controls
Increase or decrease the brightness of your MacBook Pro display.

—

Mute control
Mute the volume of the sound coming from the built-in speakers and
headphone port.

Volume controls
Increase or decrease the volume of the sound coming from the speakers and
headphone port.
Num Lock key
Activate the numeric keypad embedded in the MacBook Pro keyboard.
When the numeric keypad is activated, a green light glows on the key.

Video Mode Toggle key
Switch between dual-display mode (extending your desktop across the built-in
and an external display) and video-mirroring mode (presenting the same
information on both the built-in and an external display).

Keyboard illumination controls
Increase (o), decrease (ø), or turn off (O) the brightness of your keyboard
illumination.
F11, F12
F11 is preset to open Exposé and F12 opens Dashboard.

Media Eject key
Press and hold this key to eject a disc.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Additional Features of Your MacBook Pro
d USB 2.0
port

¯ Power

adapter port

f Headphone/optical
digital audio out port

, Audio line in/optical
digital audio in port

d USB 2.0
port

Security
slot

Chapter 1 Getting Started

ExpressCard/34
slot

G Gigabit Ethernet port
(10/100/1000Base-T)

H FireWire
400 port

£ DVI
port

Power adapter port
Plug in the included power adapter to recharge your MacBook Pro battery.

Two Hi-Speed USB 2.0 (Universal Serial Bus) ports
Connect equipment to your MacBook Pro, such as iPods, printers, digital cameras,
modems, and more. (Compatible with standard USB devices.)

Audio line in/optical digital audio in port
Connect your MacBook Pro to a line-level microphone or digital audio
equipment.

Headphone/optical digital audio out port
Connect external speakers, headphones, or digital audio equipment.
ExpressCard/34 slot
Expand the capabilities of your MacBook Pro. Accepts 34mm ExpressCards.
Security slot
Protect your MacBook Pro by connecting a security cable (sold separately).

FireWire 400 port
Connect high-speed external devices, such as digital video cameras and external
storage devices. You can connect a standard 6-pin FireWire device directly to the
FireWire 400 port.

Gigabit Ethernet port (10/100/1000Base-T)
Connect to a high-speed Ethernet network or connect to another computer and
transfer files. The Ethernet port’s autosensing feature detects other Ethernet
devices and doesn’t require an Ethernet crossover cable in order to connect.

DVI (external display) port
Connect to an external display or projection device that uses a DVI connector, or
use the included DVI to VGA adapter to connect a VGA monitor.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

For more information about these features, see Chapter 3, “Using Your MacBook Pro,”
on page 53.

Putting Your MacBook Pro to Sleep or Shutting It Down
When you finish working with your MacBook Pro, you can put it to sleep or shut it
down.

Putting Your MacBook Pro to Sleep
If you will be away from your MacBook Pro for only a short time, put the computer to
sleep. When the computer is in sleep, you can quickly wake it and bypass the startup
process.
To put the computer to sleep, do one of the following:
Â Close the display.
Â Choose Apple () > Sleep from the menu bar.
Â Press the power (®) button and click Sleep in the dialog that appears.

Â Choose Apple () > System Preferences, click Energy Saver, and set a sleep timer.
Â Press and hold the Play/Pause (’) button on the Apple Remote for 3 seconds.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Warning: Wait a few seconds until the white sleep indicator light on the display latch
starts pulsating (indicating that the computer is in sleep and the hard disk has
stopped spinning) before you move your MacBook Pro. Moving your computer while
the hard disk is spinning can damage the hard disk, causing loss of data or the
inability to start up from the hard disk.
To wake the computer:
Â If the display is closed, simply open it to wake up your MacBook Pro.
Â If the display is already open, press the power (®) button or any key on the keyboard
or any button on the Apple Remote.

Shutting Down Your MacBook Pro
If you aren’t going to use your MacBook Pro for a day or two, it’s best to shut it down.
The sleep indicator light goes on briefly during the shutdown process.
To shut down your computer, do one of the following:
m Choose Apple () > Shut Down from the menu bar.
m Press the power (®) button and click Shut Down in the dialog that appears.
If you plan to store your MacBook Pro for an extended period of time, see “Storing Your
MacBook Pro” on page 108 for information about how to prevent your battery from
draining completely.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Calibrating Your Battery
To get the longest running time from your battery, calibrate it sometime during the
first week you have your MacBook Pro and repeat these steps occasionally to keep your
battery functioning at its fullest capacity.
To calibrate your battery:
1 Plug in the power adapter and fully charge your MacBook Pro battery until the light on
the power adapter plug changes to green and the Battery icon in the menu bar
indicates that the battery is fully charged.
2 Allow the battery to rest in the fully charged state for two hours or longer. You may use
your computer during this time as long as the adapter is plugged in.
3 Disconnect the power adapter with the MacBook Pro on and start running it from the
battery. You may use your computer during this time.
When your battery gets low, you will see the low battery warning dialog on the screen.
4 Continue to keep your computer turned on until it goes to sleep. Save your work and
close all applications when the battery gets low and before the system goes to sleep.
5 Turn off the computer or allow it to sleep for five hours or longer.
6 Connect the power adapter and leave it connected until the battery is fully charged
again.
Important: Repeat the calibration process occasionally to keep your battery fully
functioning. If you use your MacBook Pro infrequently, it’s best to recalibrate the
battery at least once a month.
If you purchased additional batteries, follow the calibration procedure with those
batteries as well. For more battery information, see “Using Your Battery” on page 77.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Getting More Information
For more information about your MacBook Pro, check out these resources:
Â Read Chapter 2, “Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro,” on page 27 for important
basics.
Â If you’re unfamiliar with Mac OS X, review the Welcome to Tiger booklet that came
with your computer and open Mac Help to browse the information there. For more
information, see “Getting Answers Using Mac Help” on page 42.
Â If you’re having a problem that prevents you from using your computer, see
Chapter 5, “Troubleshooting,” on page 93.
Â Check out the most commonly asked questions in “Top Ten Questions” on page 125.
Â For support information, user discussion boards, and the latest Apple software
downloads, go to www.apple.com/support.
Â If you can’t find the answer to your question in these places, see the AppleCare
materials that came with your computer for information about contacting Apple.

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Getting to Know Your
MacBook Pro

This chapter introduces important basics about your
MacBook Pro.
Whenever you stop using your MacBook Pro, wait a few moments to let the hard disk
and any disc (such as a CD or DVD) in your optical drive stop spinning before you
transport the computer. Avoid jostling or bumping your MacBook Pro while discs are
spinning.
Note: Your MacBook Pro uses Sudden Motion Sensor technology to help protect the
hard disk if the computer is dropped or experiences extreme vibration. See
“Understanding Sudden Motion Sensor Technology” on page 76 for more information.
When you use your MacBook Pro or charge its battery, it is normal for the bottom of
the case to get warm. For prolonged use, place your MacBook Pro on a flat, stable
surface. The bottom of the case is raised slightly to allow airflow, which keeps the unit
within normal operating temperatures.
As you get to know your new MacBook Pro, you might hear system sounds during
startup and when using your hard disk and optical drive. After the MacBook Pro runs
for some time, small fans might turn on to cool it, producing a faint sound. System
sounds such as these are part of the computer’s normal functioning.

For more safety instructions about handling and using your MacBook Pro in different
locations, make sure to see Appendix B, “Safety, Use, and Care Information,” on
page 105.
The rest of this chapter includes sections about using components of your
MacBook Pro, such as the display, power adapter, trackpad, keyboard, built-in iSight
camera, and Apple Remote, and information about Mac OS X, Mac Help, applications,
and connecting to peripheral hardware.

Adjusting Your Display
Your MacBook Pro is equipped with an ambient light sensing (ALS) system (located
under the speaker grille) that automatically adjusts the brightness of the display
according to the available light. After you begin working with your new MacBook Pro,
you might need to adjust your display so that the screen is easier to see. Use the F1
and F2 keys labeled with the brightness (¤) icon to adjust screen brightness.
To turn off the automatic display brightness feature:
m Choose Apple () > System Preferences from the menu bar. Open the Displays pane
and deselect the “Automatically adjust brightness as ambient light changes” checkbox.
There are two options for your display that can optimize your battery life. You can find
these options in the Energy Saver pane of System Preferences.
To set preferences for your display that optimize battery use:
1 Open System Preferences and click Energy Saver.
2 In the “Settings for” pop-up menu, choose Battery and click Options.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

3 Deselect “Reduce the brightness of the built-in display when using this power source”
if you don’t want your display to dim to save on battery consumption.
When this feature is enabled, your display dims a small amount when you go from
using the power adapter with your MacBook Pro to using battery power. When you
plug in the power adapter again, your display returns to its previous level of brightness.
Deselect “Automatically reduce the brightness of the display before display sleep” if you
don’t want the display to dim before the MacBook Pro sleeps.

Changing the Size of Images on the Screen
Your MacBook Pro has a 15.4-inch display with a default resolution of 1440 x 900.
You can increase or decrease the size of images on your screen by switching from the
native resolution to a scaled resolution.
You can choose scaled resolutions in the Displays pane of System Preferences. When
you switch to a scaled resolution, items on the screen appear larger, making them
easier to see. Scaled resolutions might not be as sharp as the display’s default
resolution.
With some resolutions, a black band appears on each side of the display. If you do not
want to see the bands, you can choose a “stretched” version of the resolution to have
the image cover the entire screen and eliminate the bands.
To adjust the resolution on your display:
m Choose Apple () > System Preferences from the menu bar. Open the Displays pane of
System Preferences.
To control your display settings using the Displays status menu in the menu bar, click
“Show displays in menu bar.”

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Using Your Power Adapter
Plugging in the power adapter provides AC power to the MacBook Pro and recharges
the computer’s battery.
Important: For optimal performance, use only the power adapter that came with your
computer, or purchase an additional 85W Apple Portable Power Adapter.
When you first connect your power adapter to your computer, an indicator light on the
power adapter plug turns on. If you don’t see a light, your plug is probably not seated
correctly. Check for any debris and remove it, if necessary. An amber light indicates that
power is going to the battery. A green light indicates that no power is going to the
battery, which can mean the battery is fully charged, is not installed, or has a problem.
You can monitor the battery level using the Battery status menu in the menu bar or by
checking the battery level indicator lights on the bottom of the battery (see page 77).
Warning: The MacBook Pro power adapter port contains a magnet that can erase
data on a credit card, iPod, or other device. To preserve your data, keep these and
other magnetic media away from the power adapter port.
To extend the reach of your power adapter, first pull the AC plug up to remove it from
the adapter. Attach the included AC power cord to the adapter, making sure it is seated
firmly. Plug the other end into a power outlet. The AC power cord provides a grounded
connection.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

AC power cord

AC plug

For best results, always use the AC power cord and connect it to a grounded power
outlet when one is available. Use only the AC power cord that came with your power
adapter. Make sure to push the power plug snugly into the power adapter port on the
computer to ensure it is engaged and power is flowing to the computer. If the cord is
plugged in properly, you will see an indicator light on the end of the cord that plugs
into your MacBook Pro.
When disconnecting the power adapter from a power outlet or from the computer,
pull the plug, not the cord. For safety instructions about using your power adapter,
see “Setting Up Your MacBook Pro and Power Adapter” on page 106.

Using the Trackpad
How quickly the pointer moves onscreen is based on how quickly you move your
finger across the trackpad. To move the pointer a short distance, move your finger
slowly across the trackpad; the faster you move your finger, the farther the pointer
moves onscreen.
Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

You can also scroll vertically and horizontally in a window that has scroll bars by
moving two fingers on the trackpad. This feature can be turned off or adjusted in the
Keyboard & Mouse pane of System Preferences.

Tips for Using the Trackpad
For best results when using the trackpad, keep in mind these tips:
Â Use only one finger, except when the scrolling feature is turned on and you want to
scroll.
Â Do not use a pen or any other object.
Â Keep your finger and the trackpad dry. If the trackpad becomes moist from
humidity or condensation, gently wipe it with a clean cloth before you use it.
Â Never use any kind of cleaning solution on the trackpad.
For more information about using the trackpad, choose Help > Mac Help from the
menu bar at the top of the screen.
Instead of using the trackpad button, you can use your finger to click and double-click
directly on the trackpad. You can turn on this feature and other trackpad options in the
Keyboard & Mouse pane of System Preferences.
Note: If you find that the pointer moves as you type because you accidentally brush
the trackpad, you can avoid this problem by selecting the “Ignore accidental trackpad
input” option in the Keyboard & Mouse pane of System Preferences.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Using the Keyboard
Your MacBook Pro keyboard has a numeric keypad incorporated in the standard
keyboard keys. Keys used for the numeric keypad have a smaller secondary label.
Num Lock key
ALS sensor

Numeric keypad

ALS sensor

To use the numeric keypad, press the Num Lock key. The Num Lock key glows green,
indicating that the keypad is active. When you finish using the keypad, press the Num
Lock key again to turn it off.
Important: If your keyboard doesn’t seem to be working correctly, check the Num Lock
key. When the numeric keypad is active, other keys and keyboard equivalents for menu
commands (such as x-Q to quit) are deactivated.
Your MacBook Pro is equipped with an illuminated keyboard that is adjusted by the
ambient light sensing (ALS) system according to the available light in your operating
environment.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

You can also adjust the keyboard illumination using the F8, F9, and F10 keys.
Important: Even when the keyboard illumination feature is on, the keyboard
illuminates only in low-light situations.
You can turn off the keyboard illumination feature in the Keyboard & Mouse pane of
System Preferences or by pressing the F8 key.
Note: Exposé is preset to use the F9 and F10 keys, the same keys that adjust your
keyboard illumination. To use Exposé to manage your desktop windows, hold down
the Fn key and press F9 or F10, or open the Dashboard & Exposé pane in System
Preferences and choose different function keys to manage the windows.
You can use your keyboard as well as your Apple Remote to control the Front Row
application. See “Using the Keyboard to Control Front Row” on page 38.
If you like to use keyboard shortcuts to work efficiently, choose Help > Mac Help from
the menu bar and search for “navigation shortcuts.” You’ll find a list of keyboard
shortcuts for many common procedures and applications.

Using a Mouse
If you have an Apple mouse with a USB connection, you can insert the USB connector
into the USB 2.0 port and use your mouse right away. If you want to use an Apple
wireless mouse with Bluetooth® technology, see “Using Bluetooth Wireless Technology”
on page 64 for information about connecting it. You can purchase a wireless or USB
mouse from the online Apple Store at www.apple.com/store or from an Apple
Authorized Reseller.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Using the Apple Remote and Front Row
Your Apple Remote works with the Front Row interface and the built-in infrared (IR)
receiver, which is located next to the display release button on your MacBook Pro.
Use the Apple Remote to open Front Row and work with iTunes, iPhoto, QuickTime,
DVD Player, and more from across the room.
Use your Apple Remote to:
Â Open Front Row and navigate through the Music, Photos, Videos, and DVD menus.
Â Adjust the volume of a song, play or pause a song, or skip to the next or previous
track in iTunes.
Â Play a slideshow of any of your photo albums in iPhoto.
Â Play movies that are in your Movies folder or watch online QuickTime movie trailers.
Â Play a DVD in your optical drive with DVD Player.
Â Sleep or wake your MacBook Pro.
To use your Apple Remote:
Â Press the Menu (») button to open Front Row.
Â Use the Menu (») button to return to the previous menu while you’re navigating.
Â Press the Volume/Menu Up (∂) and Volume/Menu Down (D) buttons to move
through the menu options and adjust the volume.
Â Press the Select/Play/Pause (’) button to select an option from the menu.
Â Press the Select/Play/Pause (’) button to play or pause a song, slideshow, or movie.
Â Press the Next/Fast-forward (‘) or Previous/Rewind (]) button to skip to the next or
previous song in iTunes or the next or previous chapter in a DVD movie.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Â Hold down the Next/Fast-forward (‘) or Previous/Rewind (]) button to fast-forward
or rewind within a song or movie.
Â Hold down the Play/Pause (’) button for 3 seconds to put your MacBook Pro to sleep.
Volume/Menu Up button

IR window

Previous/Rewind button

Next/Fast-forward button

Volume/Menu Down button

Select/Play/Pause button

Menu button

Battery compartment

Pairing Your Apple Remote
If you have multiple computers or other devices with built-in IR receivers in a room
(for example, more than one MacBook Pro or iMac in a home office or lab), you can
“pair” your Apple Remote with a specific computer or device. Pairing sets up the
receiving computer or device to be controlled by a specific Apple Remote.
To pair your Apple Remote with your MacBook Pro:
1 Position the Apple Remote 3 to 4 inches from the IR receiver on your MacBook Pro.
2 Press and hold the Menu (») and Next/Fast-forward (‘) buttons on the Apple
Remote for 5 seconds.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

When you successfully pair your Apple Remote with your MacBook Pro, you will see a
chainlink symbol (
) onscreen.
To delete a pairing between the Apple Remote and your MacBook Pro:
1 Choose Apple () > System Preferences from the menu bar.
2 Click Security and then click Unpair.

Replacing the Battery
The Apple Remote includes a battery. When needed, replace the battery with a CR 2032
battery.
Press this button with a small blunt object to
partially eject the battery compartment.

M
EN
U

Positive (+) side faces up.

Pull the battery
compartment free.

To replace the battery:
1 Open the battery compartment by pressing the button (pictured above) with a small
object, such as the end of a paper clip.
2 Pull the battery compartment out and remove the battery.
3 Insert the replacement battery with the positive (+) side facing up.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

4 Close the battery compartment.

Turning Off IR Reception
You can use Security preferences to turn IR reception on your MacBook Pro on or off.
To turn off IR reception:
Â Choose Apple () > System Preferences from the menu bar and click Security.
Â Select the “Disable remote control infrared receiver” checkbox.

Using the Keyboard to Control Front Row
In addition to using the Apple Remote to control Front Row, you can also use your
keyboard. The following keys correspond to the buttons on the Apple Remote:
Keyboard equivalent

Apple Remote button

Command (x) - Esc

Enter Menu (»)

Esc

Exit Menu (»)

Space or Return

Select/Play/Pause (’)

Up arrow (Ò)

Volume/Menu Up (∂)

Down arrow (¬)

Volume/Menu Down (D)

Right arrow (˚)

Next/Fast forward (‘)

Left arrow (k)

Previous/Rewind (])

Getting More Information About the Apple Remote
More information about your Apple Remote is available in Mac Help. Choose
Help > Mac Help from the menu bar and search for “Apple Remote.”

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Using the Built-in iSight Camera
With the built-in iSight camera, you can take pictures with Photo Booth or video chat
with other iChat AV users.
Camera
indicator light

iSight camera

Taking Pictures with Photo Booth
Use Photo Booth to take pictures and add fun visual effects such as sepia, black and
white, glow, colored pencil, and more.
To take a picture with Photo Booth:
1 Click the Photo Booth icon in the Dock (or choose Applications > Photo Booth) to open
Photo Booth and turn on the built-in iSight camera.
The green indicator light next to the camera tells you it’s on.
2 Select an effect to apply to your picture, if you like.
3 Click the Camera icon below the image to take a picture.
Save your photo as your iChat buddy picture, email it to your friends, or save it in your
iPhoto library.
Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

To use a picture as your buddy picture or account picture:
1 Open Photo Booth and take a picture.
2 Select the picture you’d like to use as your buddy picture or account picture.
3 Click the Buddy Picture or Account Picture icon to automatically update your picture.
More information about Photo Booth is available by choosing Help > Mac Help from
the menu bar, and then choosing Library > Photo Booth Help.

Using Your iSight Camera with iMovie HD
You can capture live video from your built-in iSight camera directly into iMovie HD.
To capture live video:
1 Open iMovie HD by clicking its icon in the Dock (or choose Applications > iMovie HD).
2 Click the mode switch to set iMovie HD to built-in camera mode.
Mode switch

3 Click the camera icon to the left of the mode switch and choose Built-in iSight from the
pop-up menu.
4 Click the “Record With iSight” button in the iMovie monitor to begin recording.
The video you see in the iMovie monitor is recorded as a clip in the iMovie Clips pane.
5 Click the “Record With iSight” button again to stop recording.
You can record video as long as your MacBook Pro has enough disk space to hold it.
More information about iMovie HD is available in Mac Help. Choose Help > Mac Help,
then choose Library > iMovie HD Help from the menu bar.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Videoconferencing with iChat AV
When you open iChat AV, the green indicator light goes on. Click the video icon of a
buddy to videoconference with another iChat AV user in real-time full-motion video.
Your MacBook Pro also has a built-in microphone, so you have both voice and video
support for iChat AV videoconferences.
To use the built-in iSight to videoconference, you must have the following:
Â A .Mac, America Online (AOL), or AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) account (required for
iChat AV).
Â A broadband Internet connection using a DSL or cable modem, or a local area
network (LAN). Note that a dial-up Internet connection doesn’t support this activity.
To start a videoconference:
1 Open iChat AV.
2 Click the Camera button next to a buddy in your buddy list.
For information about adding people to your buddy list, choose Help > iChat AV Help.
Clicking a Camera button in the buddy list illuminates the green indicator light to
indicate you are recording video. This also sends an invitation to your buddy to accept
your video request and lets you preview how you look on camera. When a buddy
accepts your invitation, you can see him or her on your screen as well as yourself.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Videoconferencing with More Than One Buddy
You can videoconference with up to three buddies at once. One buddy “hosts” the
videoconference, and the others participate.
To start a videoconference with more than one buddy:
1 Open iChat AV.
2 Hold down the Command key while you select the buddies you want to invite.
3 Click the Camera button at the bottom of your buddy list.

Turning Off the iSight Camera
To turn off your iSight camera, close the active iChat window. The green indicator light
turns off, indicating that the iSight camera is off and recording has stopped.

Using Your Picture as Your Buddy Icon
You can take a picture of yourself using the iSight camera and use it as your buddy
icon. People who have placed you in their buddy lists will see this picture.
To set your buddy icon:
1 Open iChat AV.
2 Choose Buddies > Change My Picture.
3 Click the Camera button.

Getting Answers Using Mac Help
Most of the information about using your Macintosh is available right on your
computer in Mac Help. You’ll find plenty of information for new users, experienced
users, and people switching to the Mac.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

To access Mac Help:
1 Click the Finder icon in the Dock (the bar of icons at the bottom of the screen).

2 Choose Help > Mac Help (click the Help menu in the menu bar and choose Mac Help).

3 Click in the search field, type a question, and press Return on your keyboard.
Search field

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Learning About Mac OS X
Your computer comes with Mac OS X v10.4 Tiger, which includes Spotlight, a search
engine that automatically indexes all of your files; Dashboard, an interface for putting
handy “widgets” or mini-applications at your fingertips; Exposé, which tiles and neatly
displays all your open applications; and much more.
When you’re ready to learn more about Mac OS X and the award-winning iLife
applications that came with your computer, see the Welcome to Tiger booklet that came
with your MacBook Pro or browse the information in Mac Help. If you experience any
problems while using Mac OS X, see Chapter 5, “Troubleshooting,” or Mac Help.
For information about the software applications compatible with Mac OS X or to read
more about Mac OS X, check the Apple website at www.apple.com/macosx.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Customizing Your Desktop and Setting Your Preferences
You can quickly make your desktop look the way you want using System Preferences.
Choose Apple () > System Preferences from the menu bar.

Feel free to make changes and experiment with the following:
Â Appearance: Select this preferences pane to change the colors of buttons, menus,
windows, and highlight colors, among other options.
Â Dashboard & Exposé: Select this preferences pane to set active screen corners and
shortcuts for Dashboard, the desktop, your application windows, and all windows.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Â Desktop & Screen Saver: Select this preferences pane to change the background color
or pattern of your desktop, or change it to a photo or image you like. You can also
choose an eye-catching screen effect that will appear on your screen when the
computer is left idle.
Â Dock: Select this preferences pane to change the look, location, and behavior of your
Dock (the bar of icons along the edge of the screen).
As you get to know your computer, explore the other system preferences.
System Preferences is your command center for most settings on your MacBook Pro.
For more information, open Mac Help and search for “System Preferences” or for the
specific preferences pane you want to change.
Note: Because Apple frequently releases new versions and updates to its system
software, applications, and Internet sites, images shown in this book might be slightly
different from what you see on your screen.

Using Applications
Your MacBook Pro comes with software applications for sending email, surfing the
Internet, and chatting online. It also includes the iLife suite of applications for activities
such as organizing music and digital photos, making movies, and much more. For more
information about these applications, see the Welcome to Tiger booklet that came with
your computer.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

When an Application Does Not Respond
On rare occasions, an application may “freeze” on the screen. Mac OS X provides a way
to quit a frozen application without restarting your computer. Quitting a frozen
application might allow you to save your work in other open applications.
To force an application to quit:
1 Press Command (x)-Option-Esc or choose Apple () > Force Quit from the menu bar.
The Force Quit Applications dialog appears with the application selected.
2 Click Force Quit.
The application quits, leaving all other applications open.
If you need to, you can also restart the Finder from this dialog.
If you’re experiencing other problems with an application, see Chapter 5,
“Troubleshooting,” on page 93.

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 Apple’s Internet
servers to see if any updates are available for your computer. You can set your Mac to
check the Apple server periodically and download and install updated software.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

To check for updated software:
1 Open System Preferences.
2 Click the Software Update icon and follow the directions 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 the Mac OS X website at
www.apple.com/macosx.

Connecting to a Printer
Follow the instructions that came with your printer to install the required software and
connect the printer. The drivers for most printers are built into Mac OS X.
You can connect many printers with a USB cable; others require a network connection,
such as Ethernet. If you have an AirPort Express or AirPort Extreme Base Station, you
can connect a USB printer to the base station (instead of connecting it to your
computer) and print wirelessly. For more information about your USB ports, see “Using
Universal Serial Bus Devices” on page 54. For more information about a wireless or
network connection, see “How AirPort Provides Wireless Internet Access” on page 62
and “Connecting with Ethernet” on page 66.
After you connect a USB or FireWire printer, your computer usually detects it
automatically and adds it to the list of available printers. You might need to know the
network name or address of printers connected to a network before you can print to
them. Use the Print & Fax pane of System Preferences to select your printer.
Note: If your printer is not working, you might need to check the web site of the
printer for compatible printer driver software to install.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

To set up a printer:
1 Open System Preferences and click the Print & Fax icon.
2 Click Printing and then click the Add (+) button to add a printer.
3 Select the printer you want to use, and then click Add.
4 Use the Add (+) and Remove (–) buttons to choose the printers that appear in the
printer list.

Monitoring Printing
After you send a document to a printer, you can monitor printing, including deleting
your print job or putting it temporarily on hold. Click the printer icon in the Dock to
open the Printer window. For more information, choose Help > Mac Help and search
for “printing.”

Playing a CD and Connecting Headphones
You can use iTunes—an easy-to-use digital jukebox and store from which you can
download music, videos, podcasts, and audiobooks—to listen to your iTunes music and
CDs while you work. Insert a music CD in your optical drive and iTunes appears
automatically on the screen. You can listen to your music on the MacBook Pro internal
speakers or connect headphones to the headphone port of your MacBook Pro for
private listening.
To learn more about iTunes:
m Open iTunes and choose Help >” iTunes and Music Store Help.”

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Connecting a Camera or Other FireWire or USB Device
If you have an iPod, digital camera, video camera, scanner, or other device that has a
USB or FireWire connector, you can connect it to your MacBook Pro. Follow the
installation instructions that came with your device. For more information about
FireWire, see “Connecting with FireWire” on page 57. For more information about USB,
see “Using Universal Serial Bus Devices” on page 54.

Transferring Files to Another Computer
If you want to transfer files or documents to or from your MacBook Pro, there are
several ways of doing it.
Â You can easily transfer files using Migration Assistant and a FireWire cable (sold
separately). You can also connect to another Mac using a FireWire cable and start up
your MacBook Pro in FireWire Target Disk Mode. Your MacBook Pro appears as a hard
disk on the other computer and you can drag files to it. For information about using
FireWire to transfer files, see “Connecting Your MacBook Pro to Another Computer
Using FireWire” on page 60.
Â If you have an external hard disk drive, iPod, flash drive, or other data storage device
that connects through a USB or FireWire cable, you can use it to transfer files.
Â If you have an email connection, you can email your files to another computer.
Â If you register for a .Mac account from Apple (fees apply), you can use it to transfer
files. With a .Mac account, you get an iDisk, which provides Internet space for backing
up and storing files so that other computers can access the files you transfer there.
Â If the other computer has a recordable optical drive, you can transfer files that you
have recorded on a CD or DVD disc.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Â If you connect your computer to a network using Ethernet, you can transfer files to
another computer on a network. You can access a server or another computer by
clicking Network in the Finder sidebar, or by choosing Go > Connect to Server from
the menu bar.
Â You can create a small Ethernet network by connecting an Ethernet cable from your
MacBook Pro to another computer’s Ethernet port. After you’re connected, you can
transfer files directly from one computer to the other. For more information, open
Mac Help and search for “connecting two computers.”
Â You can connect to an AirPort Extreme wireless network to transfer files. For more
information, see “How AirPort Provides Wireless Internet Access” on page 62.
Â If you have access to devices that communicate using Bluetooth wireless technology,
you can transfer files to other Bluetooth equipped devices. For more information, see
“Using Bluetooth Wireless Technology” on page 64.
For general information about transferring files and documents, open Mac Help and
search for “transferring” or for the type of connection you need.

Chapter 2 Getting to Know Your MacBook Pro

Using Your MacBook Pro

Your MacBook Pro has many built-in features and
connection capabilities.
These include the following:
Â Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 ports for connecting additional equipment such as
iPods, printers, scanners, and other devices. See “Using Universal Serial Bus Devices”
on page 54.
Â A FireWire 400 port for connecting high-speed equipment such as digital video
cameras and external hard drives. See “Connecting with FireWire” on page 57.
Â An ExpressCard/34 slot. See “Using ExpressCards” on page 61.
Â Bluetooth wireless connectivity, AirPort Extreme wireless networking capability, and
Ethernet networking capability. See “Using Bluetooth Wireless Technology” on
page 64, “How AirPort Provides Wireless Internet Access” on page 62, and
“Connecting with Ethernet” on page 66.
Â An audio line in/optical digital audio in port and a headphone/optical digital audio
out port for connecting headphones, speakers, microphones, and digital audio
equipment. See “Connecting Speakers and Other Audio Devices” on page 71.

Â DVI video output with included DVI to VGA adapter for using your MacBook Pro
with an external monitor or digital flat-panel display, including support for closed-lid
operation, video mirroring, and extended desktop (dual-display) modes. Use the
Apple DVI to Video Adapter, available separately, to display content on your TV.
See “Using External Video Support” on page 67.
Â A SuperDrive for playing and burning CDs and DVDs. See “Using Your SuperDrive” on
page 72.
Â Sudden Motion Sensor technology that helps protect the internal hard disk if the
MacBook Pro is dropped or experiences severe vibration. See “Understanding Sudden
Motion Sensor Technology” on page 76.
Â A security slot to help prevent theft of your computer. See “Securing Your
MacBook Pro” on page 81.

Using Universal Serial Bus Devices
Your MacBook Pro comes with two USB 2.0 (d) ports, also referred to as Hi-Speed USB,
which you can use to connect many types of external devices, including iPods, printers,
scanners, digital cameras, game pads, joysticks, keyboards, and floppy disk drives. Your
USB 2.0 ports are compatible with earlier USB devices. In most cases, you can connect
and disconnect a USB device while the computer is running. After you connect the
device, it is ready to use. You don’t need to restart or reconfigure your computer.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

To use a USB device with your computer, connect the device to the computer.
Your computer automatically detects newly connected devices and loads the correct
software to work with the device.
Note: If your MacBook Pro cannot find the correct software when you connect a USB
device, you can either install the software that came with the device or go to the
website of the device manufacturer to locate and install the correct software.

Understanding USB Devices and Battery Power
You can use USB devices, such as joysticks and keyboards, which are powered by the
MacBook Pro USB connection instead of a separate power adapter. However, these
types of USB devices can cause your MacBook Pro battery to become depleted faster.
If you are using the device for an extended period, it is a good idea to connect the
MacBook Pro power adapter.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Using Multiple USB Devices at the Same Time
You can purchase a USB hub to connect multiple USB devices to your computer.
The USB hub connects to an open USB port on your computer and provides additional
USB ports (usually four or seven). Hi-Speed hubs can support USB 2.0 Hi-Speed devices
as well as USB 1.1–compatible devices. USB 1.1 hubs don’t allow Hi-Speed USB devices
to operate at their maximum data speed. Some USB hubs have a power adapter and
should be plugged into a power outlet.
Note: If you are using a chain of USB devices and hubs, some USB devices may not
work when connected through a combination of USB 2.0 Hi-Speed hubs and USB 1.1
full-speed or low-speed hubs. For example, you might not see an external USB hard
disk on your desktop. To avoid this problem, do not connect USB devices with different
speeds together. Connect your Hi-Speed hub directly to your computer and connect
Hi-Speed devices to it. Connect a full-speed or low-speed hub directly to your
computer and connect similar-speed devices to it.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

USB hub

Getting More Information About USB
Additional information about USB is available in Mac Help. Choose Help > Mac Help in
the menu bar and search for “USB.” You can also find information on the Apple USB
website at www.apple.com/usb. For information about USB devices available for your
computer, check the Macintosh Products Guide at www.apple.com/guide.

Connecting with FireWire
Your computer has one FireWire 400 (H) port. With FireWire, you can easily connect
and disconnect external high-speed devices—such as high definition video (HDV) or
digital video (DV) cameras and hard disks—without restarting your computer.
You can connect a standard 6-pin FireWire device directly to the FireWire 400 (H) port.
The port provides power to connected devices, so the devices don’t need a separate
power plug.
Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

These are some of the things you can do with FireWire:
Â Connect a HDV or DV camera and capture, transfer, and edit high-quality video
directly on your computer using video editing software such as iMovie HD or
Final Cut Express.
Â Connect an external FireWire hard disk drive and use it to back up data or
transfer files.
Â Start up from an external FireWire hard disk. Connect an external FireWire hard disk
(with Mac OS X v10.4.4 installed on it), open the Startup Disk pane of System
Preferences, and click the FireWire hard disk. Restart your computer.
Â Transfer files between your MacBook Pro and another FireWire-equipped computer
using FireWire Target Disk Mode. See “Connecting Your MacBook Pro to Another
Computer Using FireWire” on page 60 for more information.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Using FireWire Devices
To use a FireWire device with your computer, connect the device to the computer and
install any software that came with the device. Your computer automatically detects
newly connected devices.
Note: If your MacBook Pro cannot find the correct software when you connect a
FireWire device, you can either install the software that came with the device or go to
the website of the device manufacturer to locate and install the correct software.

Understanding FireWire Devices and Battery Power
You can use FireWire devices, such as certain external hard disks, which are powered by
the MacBook Pro FireWire connection instead of a separate power adapter. However,
these types of FireWire devices can cause your MacBook Pro battery to become
depleted faster. If you are using the device for an extended period, it is a good idea to
connect the MacBook Pro power adapter.
Note: The FireWire port is designed to support power for FireWire devices (up to
7 watts maximum). You can connect multiple devices to each other and connect the
chain of devices to the FireWire port on your computer, but only one device should get
power from the computer. The rest of the devices in the chain should be powered by
separate power adapters. Connecting more than one FireWire device that gets power
from the port can cause problems. If a problem occurs, shut down the computer,
disconnect the FireWire devices, and restart your computer.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Connecting Your MacBook Pro to Another Computer
Using FireWire
If you want to transfer files between your MacBook Pro and another FireWire-equipped
Macintosh computer, or if you have a problem that prevents your computer from
starting up, you can use FireWire Target Disk Mode to connect to another computer.
When you start up your computer in FireWire Target Disk Mode, the other computer
can access your MacBook Pro as if it were an external hard disk.
Note: When using FireWire Target Disk Mode, it’s a good idea to connect your power
adapter to the MacBook Pro.
To connect your MacBook Pro to another computer in FireWire Target Disk Mode:
1 Make sure that your MacBook Pro is shut down.
2 Use a FireWire cable to connect your MacBook Pro to another FireWire-equipped
computer.
3 Start up your MacBook Pro and immediately hold down the T key.
Your MacBook Pro display shows the FireWire logo. The other computer’s display shows
the MacBook Pro internal hard disk icon. You can now drag and drop files between the
computers.
4 When you finish transferring files, drag the MacBook Pro hard disk icon to the Trash
(Eject icon).
5 Press the power (®) button on the MacBook Pro to shut it down, and then disconnect
the FireWire cable.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Getting More Information About FireWire
More information about FireWire is available in Mac Help. Choose Help > Mac Help in
the Finder menu bar and search for “FireWire.” You can also find information on the
Apple FireWire website at www.apple.com/firewire.

Using ExpressCards
You can expand your computer’s capabilities using the ExpressCard/34 slot. You can
connect a TV tuner, flash memory cards, and more. Your MacBook Pro has one
ExpressCard/34 slot that accepts 34mm ExpressCards. You can insert an ExpressCard
when your computer is on, off, or in sleep.

Label
side up

ExpressCard/34 slot

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Inserting and Ejecting an ExpressCard
When inserting an ExpressCard, make sure the label is facing up and the card is level.
You’ll feel some resistance as you slide in the card. When the card is firmly seated in the
slot, it clicks into place and an icon appears on the desktop. You can eject an
ExpressCard when your computer is on or off, but not when it is in sleep.
To eject an ExpressCard:
1 If the computer is turned on, drag the card’s icon to the Trash (Eject icon).
2 Push gently on the card to activate the spring, and then pull the card out of the slot.

Getting More Information About ExpressCards
For information about the ExpressCards available for your MacBook Pro, check the
Macintosh Products Guide at www.apple.com/guide.

How AirPort Provides Wireless Internet Access
With AirPort Extreme technology, your MacBook Pro makes a wireless connection to an
AirPort Express, Airport Extreme Base Station, or any 802.11a-, 802.11b-, or 802.11gcompliant product that is connected to the phone line, a DSL or cable modem, or a
local-area network with Internet access.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

AirPort Express

AC outlet

DSL or cable
modem
Connection to
the Internet

Getting More Information About AirPort Extreme
To purchase an AirPort Extreme Base Station or AirPort Express, go to the online Apple
Store at www.apple.com/store or contact an Apple Authorized Reseller.
More information about AirPort Extreme and AirPort Express is available in AirPort Help.
Choose Help > Mac Help, and then choose Library > AirPort Help. You can also find
information on the Apple AirPort website at www.apple.com/airport.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Using Bluetooth Wireless Technology
Your MacBook Pro comes with Bluetooth wireless technology. With Bluetooth,
you can make short-range wireless connections between desktop and portable
computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), mobile phones, camera phones, printers,
digital cameras, and wireless input devices such as the Apple Wireless Keyboard and
Apple Wireless Mouse (available for purchase from the online Apple Store at
www.apple.com/store).
Bluetooth wireless technology eliminates the need for many cables that traditionally
connect devices together. Bluetooth enabled devices can connect to each other
wirelessly at distances of up to 33 feet (10 meters).
With Bluetooth wireless technology, you can do the following:
Â Use your MacBook Pro to communicate with a compatible Bluetooth enabled mobile
phone. Your phone can act as a modem to connect you to a wireless service provider,
at speeds of up to 56 kilobits per second (kbit/s), so you can use your mobile phone
to access the Internet.
Â Synchronize with your handheld Bluetooth enabled PDA. Using iSync, you can
perform a HotSync operation without cables or send your business card or calendar
events directly to a colleague’s PDA.
Â Exchange files between Bluetooth enabled computers and devices—even Mac to PC.
Â Use a Bluetooth wireless printer, keyboard, mouse, or headset.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Setting Up a Bluetooth Device
Before you can use a Bluetooth device with your MacBook Pro, you need to set up the
device to work with your computer. After you set up the device, it is “paired” with your
computer, and you can see it in the Devices pane of Bluetooth preferences. You pair
your computer with the device only once, and they remain paired until you delete the
pairing.
To set up a Bluetooth device:
1 Choose Bluetooth (◊) status menu > Set up Bluetooth Device.
2 Follow the onscreen instructions for the type of device you want to set up.
Important: If the Bluetooth (◊) status menu is not in the menu bar, open System
Preferences and click Bluetooth. Click Settings and then select “Show Bluetooth status
in the menu bar.”
To delete a pairing with a Bluetooth enabled device:
1 Open System Preferences and click Bluetooth.
2 Click Devices and select the device from the list.
3 Click Delete.

Getting More Information About Bluetooth Wireless Technology
You can find out more about using Bluetooth wireless technology by opening the
Bluetooth File Exchange application (located in the Utilities folder within the
Applications folder) and choosing Help > Bluetooth Help. You can also find information
on the Apple Bluetooth website at www.apple.com/bluetooth.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Connecting with Ethernet
Your computer comes with built-in Ethernet (G) networking capability, which you can
use to connect to a network or to a cable or DSL modem.

Connecting to a network gives you access to other computers and potentially to
network printers, modems, email, and the Internet. You can use Ethernet to share files
between two computers or set up a small network. The Ethernet port on your
MacBook Pro automatically detects other Ethernet devices. You don’t need an Ethernet
crossover cable when connecting to other Ethernet devices. Use a 2-pair category 5
(or higher) Ethernet cable to connect to a 10Base-T, 100Base-T, or 1000Base-T Ethernet
network.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Getting More Information About Using Ethernet
More information, including setting up an Ethernet network and transferring files using
Ethernet, is available in Mac Help. Choose Help > Mac Help and search for “Ethernet” or
“network.”
For information about networking products you can use with your MacBook Pro, check
the Macintosh Products Guide at www.apple.com/guide.

Using External Video Support
Your computer has an external monitor (DVI) port that allows you to directly connect a
display or projector with a DVI port. Use the included DVI to VGA adapter to connect
your MacBook Pro to monitors and projectors that have VGA connectors.
You can display images on a TV, record computer images on a VCR, or play DVD-Video
discs on your TV by connecting the Apple DVI to Video Adapter (available separately).
You can purchase the Apple DVI to Video Adapter from an Apple Store retail location,
the online Apple Store at www.apple.com/store, or an Apple Authorized Reseller.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

When an external monitor or TV is connected, you can either have the same image
appear on both the built-in display and the external monitor (known as video mirroring)
or use the external monitor to extend the size of the Mac OS desktop (known as
dual-display or extended desktop mode). By default, your MacBook Pro starts up in
dual-display mode. Press the F7 (i) key to switch between dual-display and videomirroring modes.
If you want sound to come from the external display, such as a projector or TV, you
need to connect an audio cable (not included) from the computer’s headphone (f )
port to that device.
Note: Because of the display limitations of most TVs, images displayed on the TV
screen will be of lower quality than those on the built-in display or an external monitor.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Connecting an External Display or Projector
To connect an external display or projector with a DVI connection to your computer:
1 Turn on the external display or projector.
2 Make sure the display cable is connected to the external projector or display.
3 Connect the display cable to your MacBook Pro. Your MacBook Pro automatically
detects the external display.
4 Adjust the resolution on the external display by using the Displays pane of System
Preferences or the Displays status menu in the menu bar.
To connect an external display or projector with a VGA connection to
your computer:
1 Turn on the external display or projector.
2 Make sure the display cable is connected to the external projector or display.
3 Connect the DVI to VGA adapter that came with your MacBook Pro to the VGA
connector of the external display or projector, and then connect the adapter to your
MacBook Pro.
Your MacBook Pro automatically detects the external display.
4 Adjust the resolution on the external display by using the Displays pane of System
Preferences or the Displays icon in the menu bar.

Using Your MacBook Pro with the Display Closed
You can use your MacBook Pro with the display closed if the computer is connected to
an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Important: To use your MacBook Pro with the display closed, the power adapter must
be plugged into the MacBook Pro and a functioning power outlet.
Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

To operate your computer with an external monitor attached and the display closed:
1 Connect a USB keyboard and mouse to your MacBook Pro.
2 Connect the power adapter to the MacBook Pro and a power outlet. Check that the
power adapter light is on.
3 Close the MacBook Pro display to put the computer to sleep.
4 Follow the steps in the previous section to connect your MacBook Pro to an external
display.
5 Wait a few seconds and then press any key on the external keyboard to wake the
MacBook Pro.

Connecting a TV, VCR, or Other Video Device
To connect a TV, VCR, or other video device to your MacBook Pro:
1 Connect the Apple DVI to Video Adapter (available separately) to the DVI port on your
MacBook Pro.
2 If you want to send the sound from your MacBook Pro to the device, connect a
miniplug-to-RCA cable (not included) from the headphone (f ) port on your
MacBook Pro to the audio input ports on your device.
3 Turn on the external device.
4 To detect the TV or other external device, hold down the Command (x) key and press
the F2 key.
5 To adjust how the images are displayed on the device, use the Displays pane of System
Preferences.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Connecting an Apple Flat-Panel Display
You can connect your MacBook Pro to an Apple flat-panel display. Depending on the
display used, the connection might require a DVI to ADC adapter, available from an
Apple Store retail location, the online Apple Store at www.apple.com/store, or an
Apple Authorized Reseller.

Getting More Information About Using an External Monitor or TV
Additional information about using and configuring an external monitor is available in
Mac Help. Choose Help > Mac Help from the menu bar and search for “monitor.”

Connecting Speakers and Other Audio Devices
Your MacBook Pro comes with two built-in speakers, a built-in microphone, an audio
line in/optical digital audio in port, and a headphone/optical digital audio out (f ) port.
You can connect external speakers, headphones, 5.1 surround systems, and other
sound output devices to the headphone (f ) port. The headphone port is also a S/PDIF
stereo 3.5 mini-phono jack. When devices are plugged in, sound won’t come through
your built-in speakers. Unplug any headphones or speakers to hear the computer
speakers.
You can record sound onto your hard disk using the built-in microphone located under
the left speaker grille. You can also connect external microphones or other audio
equipment to the audio line in port. The audio line in port is also a S/PDIF stereo 3.5
mini-phono jack, which does not provide power to a connected device, so you must
use self-powered peripherals. Using a Toslink jack-to-miniplug adapter, you can use a
Toslink cable to connect Digital Audio Tape (DAT) decks or digital instruments to input
and mix your own music.
Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

For applications that can record sound, such as iMovie, use the Sound pane of System
Preferences to select the audio input device you want to use, including microphones
connected through USB.
The volume controls on your keyboard allow you to easily change volume. You can also
access these controls from the Sound pane of System Preferences.
For more information about using or troubleshooting sound on your computer, choose
Help > Mac Help and search for “sound.”

Using Your SuperDrive
With your SuperDrive, you can:
Â Install or use software from CDs or DVDs
Â Play multimedia on CD discs and music from audio CDs
Â Write music, documents, and other digital files to CD-R and CD-RW discs
Â Play DVD movies and use most DVD discs (single-layer)
Â Record information on blank single-layer DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, and DVD+RW
discs
Important: The SuperDrive in your MacBook Pro supports standard circular 12 cm discs.
Irregularly shaped discs or discs smaller than 12 cm are not supported. Noncircular
discs can become lodged in the drive.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Inserting a CD or DVD Disc
To install or use software from a CD or DVD disc:
1 With the computer turned on, insert the disc (with the label facing up) into the drive
slot until you feel the drive catch the disc and pull it in.
You might need to push the disc nearly all the way in before the drive takes it the rest
of the way. This is normal.

2 When the disc icon appears on the desktop, the disc is ready to use.

Ejecting a Disc
To eject a disc, do one of the following:
Â Drag the disc icon to the Trash (Eject icon).
Â Press and hold the Media Eject (C) key on the keyboard until the disc ejects.
Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Allow the disc to fully eject before removing or reinserting it.
If you can’t eject the disc, quit any applications that might be using the disc and try
again. If that doesn’t work, restart the computer while holding down the trackpad
button.

Playing DVDs
To play a DVD-Video disc on your MacBook Pro, insert the DVD. DVD Player opens
automatically. You’ll find DVD Player provides easy-to-use controls for starting,
stopping, and viewing DVDs.

If your MacBook Pro is connected to a TV so that you can watch a DVD-Video on the TV
screen, select 720 x 480 NTSC (in the United States) or 720 x 576 PAL (in Europe and
other regions) in the Displays pane of System Preferences.
You can easily connect your MacBook Pro to your stereo system. Use a miniplug-to-RCA
cable (not included) to connect the headphone (f ) port on your MacBook Pro to the
audio input ports on your stereo.

Recording on CD and DVD Discs
Your MacBook Pro can record data to CD-R and CD-RW discs. You can record your own
digital movies on blank recordable DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, or DVD+RW discs. You can
also record other kinds of digital data, such as backing up files onto a recordable DVD
disc. Your MacBook Pro can read but not record on DVD-RAM discs.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

To record data on CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, or DVD+RW discs:
1 Insert a blank recordable CD or DVD disc into the drive.
2 In the dialog that appears, enter a name for the disc and select the format you want to
use.
3 Double-click the disc icon that appears on your desktop, and then drag files and folders
to it.
4 Click the Burn Disc icon beside the disc name in the Finder sidebar.
You can also record music on CD or DVD discs right from your iTunes library.
To record music from your iTunes library:
1 Click the iTunes icon in the Dock.
2 Select the playlist or songs you want to record.
3 Insert a blank recordable CD or DVD disc.
4 At the top of the iTunes window, click Burn CD.
Important: If your battery runs down when you are burning a CD, the burn can fail and
you will not be able to use the CD disc again. To prevent this, always use your power
adapter when burning a CD.
With applications like iDVD, you can create your own customized digital media project,
burn it on a blank recordable disc, and play it on most standard DVD players.
To burn an iDVD project onto a blank DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, or DVD+RW disc:
1 Open iDVD and open your completed iDVD project.
2 Click the Burn button.
3 When prompted, insert a blank recordable DVD disc into the drive.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

4 Click the Burn button again.
For more information, open iDVD and choose Help > iDVD Help.
Important: If your battery runs down when you are burning a DVD, the burn can fail
and the DVD disc will not be able to be used again. To prevent this, always use your
power adapter when burning a DVD.

Getting More Information
For more information about DVD Player and iTunes, see these resources:
Â For instructions about using DVD Player, open DVD Player and choose Help > DVD
Player Help from the menu bar.
Â For information about how to use iTunes to record music files on a CD or DVD disc,
choose Help > “iTunes and Music Store Help” from within iTunes.

Understanding Sudden Motion Sensor Technology
Your MacBook Pro has Sudden Motion Sensor technology, built-in protection for the
hard disk that is designed to help prevent disk failures if the computer is dropped or
experiences severe vibration.
Sudden Motion Sensor protection does not affect hard disk performance during
regular MacBook Pro operation. Occasionally, unusually strong vibrations might
activate the Sudden Motion Sensor technology at a time when your MacBook Pro is
writing or reading data intensively (such as when playing or recording video or audio).
If you notice dropped frames or sound elements, make sure that your MacBook Pro is
in a stable environment without vibration or abrupt movement.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Using Your Battery
When the external power adapter is not connected, your computer draws power from
its battery. The length of time that you can run your MacBook Pro varies, depending on
the applications you use and the external devices connected to your MacBook Pro.
Turning off features such as AirPort Extreme or Bluetooth wireless technology can help
conserve battery charge. For more information about using your battery, see
“Understanding Battery Conservation Tips” on page 79.
You can determine the charge left in your battery by looking at the battery level
indicator lights on the battery itself. Press the button next to the lights and the lights
glow to show how much charge is left in the battery. The indicator lights remain lit for
a few seconds after you press the button. You can check the charge with the battery in
or out of your MacBook Pro.
If your battery runs low while you are working, attach your power adapter and let the
battery recharge. To replace a low battery with a charged one when you are not
connected to a power adapter, it’s best to shut down your computer. If you put your
MacBook Pro to sleep to replace the battery, wait until the sleep indicator light is
pulsating before removing the battery. Although your computer will shut down when
you remove the battery, you won’t lose any data.
Important: If only one flashing light is on, very little charge is left. If no lights are
visible, the battery is completely drained and the computer will not start up unless the
power adapter is connected. Plug in the power adapter to let the battery recharge, or
replace the drained battery with a fully charged battery (see page 78).

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Battery

Battery LEDs

If the battery icon in the Finder menu bar is set to show the percentage of charge, you
might sometimes notice that the battery does not attain a full 100 percent charge
when the power adapter is attached. This is normal behavior; battery life is maximized
if charging is not continuously cycled on and off when the battery’s charge capacity is
between 95 and 100 percent. When the battery level eventually drops below 95
percent, it will charge all the way to 100 percent.

Removing and Replacing the Battery
For instructions on removing and replacing the battery, see “Installing Additional
Memory” on page 84.
Note: Dispose of batteries according to your local environmental laws and guidelines.
For more information, see “Disposal and Recycling Information” on page 133.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Charging a Battery
When the power adapter that came with your computer is connected, the battery
recharges whether the computer is off, on, or in sleep. However, the battery recharges
more quickly if the computer is off or in sleep. When the MacBook Pro is on, you can
monitor the battery charge level using the Battery status menu in the menu bar.

The battery charge level displayed is based on the amount of power left in the battery
with the applications, peripheral devices, and system settings (display brightness,
Energy Saver settings, and so on) you are currently using. To conserve battery power,
close applications and disconnect peripheral devices not in use, and adjust your Energy
Saver settings (see the next section).

Understanding Battery Conservation Tips
The amount of work time your MacBook Pro battery can provide before you need to
recharge depends on the applications and peripheral devices you’re currently using
and the steps you take to conserve power while you work.
For the best conservation of battery power, do the following:
Â Disconnect bus-powered USB or FireWire devices when they are not in use.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Â Turn off AirPort or Bluetooth when they are not in use. (Use the AirPort and Bluetooth
status menus in the menu bar. If these icons don’t appear in the menu bar, you can
turn them on in the Network and Bluetooth panes of System Preferences.)
Â Quit open applications that you are not using.
Â Remove CD and DVD discs when they are not in use.
Â Reduce screen brightness using the brightness controls on the MacBook Pro
keyboard.
Â Set the hard disk to spin down after a short time. In the Energy Saver pane of System
Preferences, select the “Put the hard disk to sleep when possible” option.
Â Set your MacBook Pro to sleep after inactivity of five minutes or less.
Â Your MacBook Pro is preset to automatically reduce its processing speed during
periods of light processing activity when using battery power, thus reducing power
usage. The setting that determines this is the Normal option in the Optimization popup menu of the Energy Saver pane of System Preferences. During periods of high
processing activity, your computer will automatically switch to a higher processing
speed. To conserve the most battery life, choose Better Battery Life from the
Optimization pop-up menu. Be aware that choosing this option may affect your
computer’s performance. To set your computer to use its highest processing speed at
all times, choose Better Performance.

Getting More Information About Your MacBook Pro Battery
Additional information is available in Mac Help. Choose Help > Mac Help and search for
“battery.” You can also find information about extending the life of your battery at
www.apple.com/batteries/notebooks.html.

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Securing Your MacBook Pro
You can purchase a security cable lock to protect your MacBook Pro. With a lock, you
can secure your computer to a desk or table.

Security slot

Sample locking device
with security cable

Getting More Information About Security Options
Additional information about the software security features of your MacBook Pro,
including multiple user passwords and file encryption, is available in Mac Help. Choose
Help > Mac Help and search for “security” or “multiple users.”

Chapter 3 Using Your MacBook Pro

Adding Memory to Your
MacBook Pro

This chapter provides information and instructions
for installing additional memory and for removing
and replacing the battery in your MacBook Pro.
Warning: Apple recommends that you have an Apple-certified technician install
memory. Consult the service and support information that came with your computer
for instructions on how to contact Apple for service. If you attempt to install memory
and damage your equipment, such damage is not covered by the limited warranty on
your computer.
Your computer has two memory slots that you access by removing the memory door
in the battery bay. Your MacBook Pro comes with a minimum of 512 megabytes (MB) of
667 MHz Double Data Rate (DDR2) Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory
(SDRAM) installed. Both memory slots can accept an SDRAM module that meets the
following specifications:
Â Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR SO-DIMM) format
Â 1.25 inch or smaller
Â 512 MB or 1 gigabyte (GB)
Â 200-pin

Â PC2-5300 DDR2 667 MHz Type RAM
Depending on the configuration of the MacBook Pro you purchased, both memory
slots might already be full.
The maximum amount of memory you can install in your MacBook Pro is 2 GB, using
1 GB DIMMs in both memory slots.

Installing Additional Memory
Installing memory involves removing and replacing your battery. The following
procedure includes instructions for adding memory and replacing your battery.
Step 1: Removing the Battery
1 Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, and any
other cords connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
2 Turn over the MacBook Pro and locate the release latches on either side of the battery.
Slide both latches up. The battery should pop up slightly. Lift it out.

Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be hot. If you have been
using your MacBook Pro, wait 10 minutes after shutting down to let the internal
components cool before continuing.

Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

Step 2: Installing Memory
1 Using a Phillips size 00 screwdriver, unscrew the memory door and remove it from the
battery bay of your computer.

Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

2 Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from
your body.

Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

3 If you already have a memory card installed in the slot, remove it. Spread the tabs in
the slot away from the notches in the memory card. The card should pop up slightly.
Lift the memory card to a 25-degree angle and then gently slide the card out of the
memory slot.

4 Insert the memory card at a 25-degree angle. Line up the notch in the card with the
small tab in the memory slot and slide the card into the slot until the gold edge is
almost invisible. Then firmly push the memory card into the memory slot. You might
feel some resistance.

Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

5 Gently spread the small tabs in the memory slot away from the notches and push the
memory card down until the two snaps on either side of the card lock into place.

25O

Correctly Incorrectly
inserted
inserted

Note: Make sure your memory is installed according to this illustration, where the gold
contacts are almost completely inserted into the connector.
Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

6 Insert any additional memory in the second slot.
7 Replace the memory door and make sure it is lying flat before screwing it into place.

Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

Step 3: Replacing the Battery
1 Place the bottom edge of the battery in the battery compartment. Gently press the top
edge of the battery down until the battery latch locks into place.

2 Reconnect the power adapter and any other cables that were attached.

Making Sure Your MacBook Pro Recognizes the New Memory
After installing additional memory in your MacBook Pro, check whether the computer
recognizes the new memory.

Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

To check the computer’s memory:
1 Start up your computer.
2 When you see the Mac OS desktop, choose Apple () > About This Mac.

Total memory installed in
your MacBook Pro

The total memory includes the amount of memory that originally came with the
computer plus the new memory you added. For a detailed breakdown of the amount
of memory installed in your computer, open System Profiler by clicking More Info and
then Memory.
If your computer doesn’t recognize the memory or it doesn’t start up correctly, shut
down your MacBook Pro and check the instructions again to make sure the memory
you installed is compatible with this MacBook Pro and that it is installed correctly.
If you still have problems, remove the memory and consult the support information
that came with the memory or contact the vendor who provided the memory.

Chapter 4 Adding Memory to Your MacBook Pro

Troubleshooting

If you have a problem working with your
MacBook Pro, check here first for solutions
and advice.
When you experience a problem working with your MacBook Pro, there is usually a
simple and quick solution. Be aware of the conditions that led up to the problem.
Making a note of things you did before the problem occurred will help you narrow
down possible causes and then find the answers you need.
Note the following:
Â The applications you were using when the problem occurred. Problems that occur
only with a specific application might indicate that the application is not compatible
with the version of the Mac OS installed on your computer.
Â Any software that you recently installed, especially software that added items to the
System folder.
Â Any new hardware that you installed, such as additional memory or a peripheral.
You can also find more troubleshooting information in Mac Help and on the Apple
Service & Support website at www.apple.com/support.

Problems That Prevent You From Using Your Computer
If the computer doesn’t respond or the pointer doesn’t move
Â Press Command (x)-Option-Esc to force a frozen application to quit. In the dialog
that appears, select the application you would like to quit and click Force Quit.
Next, save your work in any open applications and restart the computer to make sure
the problem is entirely cleared up.
Â If you are unable to force the application to quit, press and hold the power (®)
button for a few seconds to shut down the computer.
Â If the computer still doesn’t respond, try to restart it by simultaneously pressing the
Command (x) and Control keys on your keyboard and the power (®) button.
If the problem occurs frequently, choose Help > Mac Help from the menu bar at the top
of the screen. Search for the word “freeze” to get help for instances when the computer
freezes or doesn’t respond.
If the problem occurs only when you use a particular application, check with the
application’s manufacturer to see if it is compatible with your computer. If you know an
application is compatible, you might need to reinstall your computer’s system software.
If the computer freezes during startup or you see a flashing question mark or the
display is dark and the sleep indicator light is glowing steadily (not in sleep)
Â Wait a few seconds. If the computer doesn’t start up after a delay, shut down your
computer by pressing and holding the power (®) button for about 5 seconds, until
the computer shuts down. Then hold down the Option key and press the power (®)
button again to start up your computer. When your computer starts up, click the hard
disk icon, and then click the right arrow. After the computer starts up, open System
Preferences and click Startup Disk. Select a local Mac OS X System folder.
94

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

Â If that doesn’t work, try using Disk Utility to repair the disk by inserting the Mac OS X
Install Disc 1 into your computer. Then restart your computer and hold down the C
key as it starts up. Choose Installer > Open Disk Utility. When Disk Utility opens,
follow the instructions in the First Aid pane to see if the utility can repair your disk.
If using Disk Utility doesn’t work, you might need to reinstall your computer’s system
software. For instructions, see “Reinstalling the Software That Came With Your
Computer” on page 99.
If the computer won’t turn on or start up
Â Make sure the power adapter is plugged into the computer and into a functioning
power outlet. Make sure to use the power adapter that came with your computer. If
the power adapter stops charging and you don’t see the indicator light on the power
adapter turn on when you plug in the power cord, try unplugging and replugging
the power cord to reset it.
Â Check if your battery needs to be recharged. Press the small button on the battery.
You should see one to four lights indicating the battery’s level of charge. If only one
battery level indicator light is flashing, allow the power adapter to charge the battery
until at least one indicator light is glowing continuously.
Â If the first two suggestions do not solve the problem, return the computer to its
factory settings by disconnecting the power adapter, removing the battery, and
holding down the power (®) button for at least 5 seconds.
Â If you recently installed additional memory, make sure that it is correctly installed and
that it is compatible with your computer. See whether removing it allows the
computer to start up (see “Installing Additional Memory” on page 84).

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

Â If you are still unable to start up your computer, see the service and support
information that came with your MacBook Pro for information about contacting
Apple for service.
If the display suddenly goes black or your system freezes
Try restarting your system.
1 Unplug any devices that are connected to your MacBook Pro except the power
adapter.
2 Hold down the Command (x) and Control keys and press the power (®) button to
restart the system.
3 Let the battery charge to at least 10 percent before plugging in any external devices
and resuming your work.
To see how much the battery has recharged, look at the Battery status menu in the
menu bar.
Additionally, your display might darken if you have energy saver features set for the
battery. For more information, see “Adjusting Your Display” on page 28.

Other Problems
If you forgot your password
You can reset your administrator password and passwords for all other accounts.
1 Insert your Mac OS X Install Disc 1. Then restart your computer and hold down the C
key as it starts up.
2 Choose Installer > Reset Password from the menu bar. Follow the instructions on the
screen.

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

If you have a problem with an application
Â For problems with software from a manufacturer other than Apple, contact the
manufacturer. Software manufacturers often provide software updates on their
websites.
Â You can configure your MacBook Pro to automatically check for and install the latest
Apple software using the Software Update pane of System Preferences. For more
information, choose Help > Mac Help from the menu bar and search for “Software
Update.”
Note: Classic (or Mac OS 9) applications are not compatible with your computer and
will not open.
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 are within antenna range of the other computer or the network’s
access point by checking the AirPort Extreme or AirPort Express signal level. Check
the AirPort (Z) status menu in the menu bar. Up to four bars appear, indicating
signal strength.
Nearby electronic devices or metal structures can interfere with wireless
communication and reduce this range. Repositioning or rotating the computer might
improve reception.
Â Make sure you have properly configured the software according to the instructions
that came with your base station or access point.

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

Â See AirPort Help (choose Help > Mac Help, then choose Library > AirPort Help from
the menu bar) and the instructions that came with the wireless device for more
information.
If your computer’s hard disk is not recording data correctly
Â In a few instances, if the hard disk undergoes unusually strong vibration, the Sudden
Motion Sensor might become active and cause dropped frames or unrecorded
portions of sound or data when the disk is recording intensively. If this occurs, make
sure that your MacBook Pro is in a stable environment without vibration or abrupt
movement.
Â If vibration isn’t the problem, run Disk Utility (in Applications/Utilities) to check
the drive.
If you have trouble ejecting a disc
Â Quit any applications that might be using the disc and try again. If that doesn’t work,
restart the computer and then immediately press and hold the trackpad button.
If you suspect a problem with your computer hardware
Â You can use the Apple Hardware Test application to help determine if there is a
problem with one of your computer’s components, such as the memory or processor.
For more information about Apple Hardware Test, see “Using Apple Hardware Test” on
page 101.
If you have problems with your Internet connection
Â Make sure your phone line or network cable is connected and functioning properly.
Â If you are using a dial-up Internet connection, make sure that your phone cord is
plugged into the Apple USB Modem (available separately) and not the Ethernet (G)
port on the computer.
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Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

Â Open the Network pane of System Preferences and verify the information entered
there with your Internet service provider (ISP) or network administrator.
If you have a problem using your computer or working with the Mac OS
Â If the answers to your questions are not in this manual, choose Help > Mac Help from
the menu bar and search for instructions and troubleshooting information.
Â Check the Apple Support website at www.apple.com/support for the latest
troubleshooting information and software updates.

Reinstalling the Software That Came With Your Computer
Use the software installation discs that came with your computer to reinstall Mac OS X
and any applications that came with your computer.
Important: Apple recommends that you back up the data on your hard disk before
reinstalling software. Apple is not responsible for any lost data.

Installing Mac OS X and Applications
To install Mac OS X and the applications that came with your computer, follow
these steps:
1 Back up your essential files.
Because the Erase and Install option erases your destination disk, you should back up
your essential files before installing Mac OS X and other applications.
2 Make sure your power adapter is plugged in.
3 Insert the Mac OS X Install Disc 1 that came with your computer.
4 Double-click Install Mac OS X and Bundled Software.
5 Follow the onscreen instructions.
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

6 After selecting the destination disk for installation, continue following the onscreen
instructions. Your computer might restart and ask you to insert the next Mac OS X
installation disc.
Note: To restore Mac OS X on your computer to the original factory settings, click
Options in the Select a Destination pane of the Installer, and then select Erase and
Install.
After selecting the destination disk for installation, continue following the onscreen
instructions for a basic installation of Mac OS X. To install custom applications, click
Customize, click the triangle next to the application, and select the application that
matches your language.

Installing Applications
To install just the applications that came with your computer, follow the steps below.
Your computer must have Mac OS X already installed.
1 Back up your essential files.
2 Make sure your power adapter is plugged in.
3 Insert the Mac OS X Install Disc 1 that came with your computer.
4 Double-click Install Bundled Software Only.
5 Follow the onscreen instructions.
6 After selecting the destination disk for installation, continue following the onscreen
instructions. Your computer might restart and ask you to insert the next Mac OS X
installation disc.

100

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

Note: To install iCal, iChat AV, iSync, iTunes, Safari, and the iLife applications, follow the
instructions in “Installing Mac OS X and Applications” on page 99. You might need to
insert the Mac OS X Disc 2, depending on the applications you select to install.

Using Apple Hardware Test
You can use Apple Hardware Test to help determine if there is a problem with your
computer’s hardware.
To use Apple Hardware Test:
1 Disconnect all external devices from your computer except the power adapter.
If you have an Ethernet cable connected, disconnect it.
2 Insert the Mac OS X Install Disc 1 that came with your computer.
3 Restart your computer and hold down the D key as it starts up.
4 When the Apple Hardware Test main screen appears, follow the onscreen instructions.
5 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 does not detect a
hardware failure, the problem might be software related.
For more information about Apple Hardware Test, see the Apple Hardware Test Read
Me file on the Mac OS X Install Disc 1.

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

101

Installing Xcode Tools
To install just the Xcode Tools, which are intended for software developers to use,
follow these steps:
1 Insert the Mac OS X Install Disc 1 that came with your computer.
2 Double-click Xcode Tools.
3 Double-click XcodeTools.mpkg.
4 Follow the onscreen instructions.

Locating Your Product Serial Number
You can see your computer’s serial number by choosing Apple () > About This Mac
and then clicking the More Info button, or by opening System Profiler (in Applications/
Utilities) and clicking Hardware. The serial number for your MacBook Pro is also located
in the battery bay. For information about removing the battery, see “Installing
Additional Memory” on page 84.

102

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

Specifications

Appendix

You can use System Profiler to find out detailed
information about your MacBook Pro.
You can find out the amount of built-in memory, hard disk size, devices connected,
and the product serial number. To access the information in System Profiler, choose
Apple () > About This Mac from the menu bar and then click More Info, or open
System Profiler, located in Applications/Utilities.
Click the triangles in the window
to show and hide information in
the different categories.

103

Operating Environment
Â Operating temperature: 50° F to 95° F (10° C to 35° C)
Â Altitude: 3048 m (10,000 ft.) maximum
Â Relative humidity: 0% to 90% noncondensing
Power Adapter
Â Input: AC 100–240 volts (V), 50/60 hertz (Hz)
Â Output: DC 18.5 V @ 4.6 A;16.5 V @ 3.6 A
Battery
Â Output: DC 10.8 V
Â Capacity: 60 Wh
Additional information is available on the Internet at www.apple.com/macbookpro and
www.apple.com/support.

104

Appendix A Specifications

Safety, Use, and Care
Information

Appendix

Read this important MacBook Pro safety and
maintenance information.
Apple products are designed and evaluated to the latest standards for safety of
information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe usage, it is important that
safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed.

Understanding General Safety Instructions
Read and follow all instructions marked on the product and in this manual before
operating your MacBook Pro. Keep these instructions handy for reference by you and
others.
Â Set up your MacBook Pro on a stable work surface.
Â Keep your computer away from sources of liquids, such as drinks, washbasins,
bathtubs, shower stalls, and so on.
Â Protect your computer from dampness or wet weather, such as rain, snow, and fog.
Â For your own safety and that of your equipment, always take the following
precautions. Disconnect the power plug (by pulling the plug, not the cord), remove
the battery, and disconnect the phone cord if any of the following conditions exists:
Â You want to install memory.
105

Â You want to remove any parts.
Â The power cord or plug becomes frayed or otherwise damaged.
Â You spill something into the case.
Â Your computer is exposed to rain or any other excess moisture.
Â Your computer has been dropped or the case has been otherwise damaged.
Â You suspect that your computer needs service or repair.
Â You want to clean the case (use only the recommended procedure described later).
Â The MacBook Pro power adapter port contains a magnet. Do not place magnetically
sensitive material or devices within 1 inch (25 mm) of this port.
Â Never push objects of any kind into the MacBook Pro ventilation openings.
Â Use caution when handling the battery. There is risk of explosion if the battery is
replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries according to your local
environmental guidelines. Don’t puncture, drop, or incinerate the battery.

Setting Up Your MacBook Pro and Power Adapter
Ensure the AC plug or AC power cord is fully inserted into the power adapter before
plugging the adapter into a power outlet. For best results, connect the adapter using
the AC power cord and use a grounded power outlet.
Use only the power adapter that came with your MacBook Pro. Adapters for other
electronic devices (including other MacBook Pro models and other portable
computers) might look similar, but they can negatively affect your computer’s
performance or damage your computer.

106

Appendix B Safety, Use, and Care Information

The power adapter may become hot during normal use of your MacBook Pro. Always
allow adequate ventilation around the adapter and use care when handling during or
immediately after operation.
Never force a connector into a port. Check for obstructions on the port. If the
connector and port don’t join with reasonable ease, they probably don’t match. Make
sure that the connector matches the port and that you have positioned the connector
correctly in relation to the port.
If debris gets into the power adapter port, it can prevent the power adapter from
seating properly. Remove debris gently with a cotton swab.

Using Your MacBook Pro
When you’re using your MacBook Pro or charging the battery, it is normal for the
bottom of the case to get warm. For prolonged use, place your MacBook Pro on a flat,
stable surface.
Do not leave the bottom of your MacBook Pro in contact with your lap or any surface
of your body for extended periods. Prolonged contact with your body could cause
discomfort and potentially a burn.
The bottom of the MacBook Pro case functions as a cooling surface that transfers heat
from inside the computer to the cooler air outside. The bottom of the case is raised
slightly to allow airflow that keeps the unit within normal operating temperatures.
In addition, warm air is vented from the slots in the back of the case.

Appendix B Safety, Use, and Care Information

107

Warning: Do not place your MacBook Pro on a pillow or other soft material when it is
on, as the material can block the airflow vents, in particular the rear vents, and cause
the computer to overheat. Never place anything over your keyboard when operating
in closed-lid mode. This can cause your computer to cycle on and off which might
create excessive heat and drain your battery. Never turn on your computer unless all
of its internal and external parts are in place. Operating the computer when it is open
or missing parts can be dangerous and can damage your computer.

Carrying Your MacBook Pro
If you carry your MacBook Pro 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 an opening such as the optical drive slot or get stuck inside a port.

Storing Your MacBook Pro
If you are going to store your MacBook Pro for an extended period of time, keep it in a
cool location (ideally, 71° F or 22° C) and do one of the following to preserve your
MacBook Pro battery life:
Â Discharge the battery 50 percent before storing your MacBook Pro.
Â When storing your computer for longer than five months, discharge the battery to
approximately 50 percent and then remove it from the MacBook Pro. If you are
storing your computer for an extended period, recharge your battery to 50 percent
every six months or so.

108

Appendix B Safety, Use, and Care Information

Cleaning Your MacBook Pro
Follow these general rules when cleaning the outside of your computer and its
components:
Â Shut down your MacBook Pro, unplug the power adapter, and remove the battery.
Â 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.
Â Don’t use aerosol sprays, solvents, or abrasives.

Cleaning Your MacBook Pro Display
To clean your MacBook Pro screen, do the following:
Â Shut down your MacBook Pro, unplug the power adapter, and remove the battery.
Â Dampen a clean, soft, lint-free cloth or paper with water only and wipe the screen.
Do not spray liquid directly on the screen.

Avoiding Hearing Damage
Warning: 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:
Â Limit the amount of time you use earbuds or headphones at high volume.
Â Avoid turning up the volume to block out noisy surroundings.
Â Turn the volume down if you can’t hear people speaking near you.

Appendix B Safety, Use, and Care Information

109

Laser Information
Warning: Making adjustments or performing procedures other than those specified
in your equipment’s manual may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
Do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet containing the laser. The laser beam used in
this product is harmful to the eyes. The use of optical instruments, such as magnifying
lenses, with this product increases the potential hazard to your eyes. For your safety,
have this equipment serviced only by an Apple-authorized service provider.
Because of the optical disc drive in your computer, your computer is a Class 1
laser product. The Class 1 label, located in a user-accessible area, indicates that the
drive meets minimum safety requirements. A service warning label is located in a
service-accessible area. The labels on your product may differ slightly from the ones
shown here.

Class 1 label

Service warning label

High-Risk Activities Warning
This computer system is not intended for use in the operation of nuclear facilities,
aircraft navigation or communications systems, or air traffic control machines, or for
any other uses where the failure of the computer system could lead to death, personal
injury, or severe environmental damage.

110

Appendix B Safety, Use, and Care Information

Understanding Ergonomics
Here are some tips for setting up a healthy work environment.

Keyboard and Trackpad
When you use the keyboard and trackpad, your shoulders should be relaxed. Your
upper arm and forearm should form an angle that is slightly greater than a right angle,
with your wrist and hand in roughly a straight line.

This

Not this

Use a light touch when typing or using the trackpad and keep your hands and fingers
relaxed. Avoid rolling your thumbs under your palms.

This

Appendix B Safety, Use, and Care Information

Not this

111

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.

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 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, you
can use a footrest with adjustable height and tilt to make up for any gap between the
floor and your feet. Or you might 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.

External Mouse
If you use an external mouse, position the mouse at the same height as your keyboard
and within a comfortable reach.

112

Appendix B Safety, Use, and Care Information

Built-in Display
Adjust the angle of the display to minimize glare and reflections from overhead lights
and windows. Do not force the display if you meet resistance. The display is not meant
to open more than 120 degrees.
You can adjust the brightness of the screen when you take the computer from one
work location to another, or if the lighting in your work area changes.

Getting More Information
Go to www.apple.com/about/ergonomics.

Apple and the Environment
Apple Computer, Inc., recognizes its responsibility to minimize the environmental
impacts of its operations and products. For more information, go to www.apple.com/
environment/summary.html.

Appendix B Safety, Use, and Care Information

113

Connecting to the Internet

Appendix

You can use your computer to browse the World
Wide Web, send email to friends and family, and
chat in real time over the Internet. Use this
information to help you connect to the Internet.
When you first start up Mac OS X, Setup Assistant helps you enter your Internet
configuration information. If you didn’t use Setup Assistant to configure your Internet
connection, you can use Network Setup Assistant later (see “Using Network Setup
Assistant to Connect” on page 119). If you don’t want to use Network Setup Assistant,
you can use the information in this appendix to set up your connection manually.
There are four kinds of Internet connections:
Â High-speed DSL or cable modem connection: Your computer is plugged into a
special modem you get from an ISP using an Ethernet cable.
Â AirPort Extreme wireless connection: Your computer is connected wirelessly to the
Internet using an AirPort Extreme Base Station or AirPort Express.
Â Local area network (LAN): Your computer is plugged into a LAN using an Ethernet
cable. This type of connection is usually used in the workplace.

115

Â Dial-up connection: Your computer is connected to an external modem that is
plugged into a phone wall jack using a phone cable.
Before you connect to the Internet:
1 Set up an account with an Internet service provider (ISP).
2 Gather the connection information you need from your ISP or network administrator.
See the next section, “Gathering the Information You Need,” to find out what
information to get for each type of connection. You can write the information directly
on the next few pages, and then enter it in Setup Assistant.
If another computer in the same location is already connected to the Internet, you
might be able to use its settings.
To find the settings on a Mac OS X computer:
Â Open the Network pane of System Preferences.
Â Choose your connection method from the Show pop-up menu.
Â Copy the information for your configuration.
To find the settings on a Windows PC:
The connection information on a Windows computer resides in two places.
Â To find the IP address and subnet mask, open the “Network and Internet Connections”
control panel.
Â To find user account information, open the User Accounts control panel.
3 If you are using an external modem, plug the Apple USB Modem (available separately)
into a USB port on your MacBook Pro, and then use a phone cord (not included) to
connect the modem to a phone wall jack. If you are using a DSL or cable modem,
follow the instructions that came with the modem to connect it to your computer.

116

Appendix C Connecting to the Internet

4 Turn on your computer and enter information in Setup Assistant to configure your
Internet connection.
Note: If you already started up your computer and did not use Setup Assistant to
configure your Internet connection, see “Using Network Setup Assistant to Connect” on
page 119.

Gathering the Information You Need
You can write the information you get from your ISP, your network administrator, or
your other computer on these pages, and then enter it in Network Setup Assistant.
To set up a phone dial-up connection, gather the following information:
Â Service provider name
Â User or account name
Â Password
Â ISP phone number
Â Alternate phone number
Â Dialing prefix to obtain an outside line

Appendix C Connecting to the Internet

117

To set up a DSL modem, cable modem, LAN, or AirPort Extreme wireless connection,
choose your connection method (ask your administrator or your ISP, if you don’t
know):
Â Manually
Â Using DHCP with a manual address
Â Using DHCP
Â Using BootP
Â PPP
If you’re unsure which method to use, “Using DHCP” might be a good choice, because
the network supplies most of the required information for you automatically.
If you selected “Manually” or “Using DHCP with a manual address,” gather the
following:
Â IP address
Â Subnet mask
Â Router address
Note: If you selected “Using DHCP with a manual address,” you don’t need a subnet
mask or router address.
If you selected “Using DHCP,” gather the following optional information (ask your ISP
whether you need it):
Â DHCP client ID
Â DNS servers

118

Appendix C Connecting to the Internet

If you selected “PPP” (for PPPoE connection), gather the following:
Â Service provider
Â Account name
Â Password
Â PPPoE service name
The information below might be optional. Ask your ISP or system administrator
whether you need it.
Â DNS servers
Â Domain name
Â Proxy server

Entering Your Information
After gathering your specific setup information from your ISP or network administrator,
you can use Network Setup Assistant to connect or enter the information manually.

Using Network Setup Assistant to Connect
If you didn’t use Setup Assistant to configure your Internet settings when you first
started up your MacBook Pro, you can use Network Setup Assistant at any time to
configure your Internet connection or to change your settings.
To use Network Assistant:
1 Choose Apple () > System Preferences.
2 Click Network and then click “Assist me.”
3 Click Assistant to open Network Assistant.

Appendix C Connecting to the Internet

119

4 Follow the onscreen instructions.
More information about setting up an Internet connection is available in Mac Help.
Choose Help > Mac Help and search for “connecting to the Internet.”

Manually Entering Information
To enter your information manually:
1 Open System Preferences > Network.
2 Select from the Show pop-up menu and set options according to the type of
connection you want to make:
Â Cable modem, DSL, or LAN connection using one of these configurations:
Â Manually: With a manual configuration, your ISP or network administrator
provides a static IP address and other information that you enter in Network
preferences.
Â Using Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP): With a DHCP configuration,
the DHCP server automatically enters the information for you.
Â Using Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE): If you use a DSL modem and
need a user name and password to connect to the Internet, check with your ISP to
determine if you should connect using PPPoE.
Â Dial-up external modem with Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) connection. Enter your
account name and password, telephone number, and other information.
Â AirPort Extreme wireless connection: You can configure your AirPort Extreme
network and Internet connection using AirPort Setup Assistant, located in the
Application/Utilities folder.
3 If you need further help, click “Assist me”.

120

Appendix C Connecting to the Internet

Troubleshooting Your Connection
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.
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
also try the following steps.

Cable Modem, DSL, and LAN Internet Connections
If you can’t connect to the Internet using your cable modem, DSL, or local area network
(LAN), see the following instructions.
Important: Instructions that refer to modems do not apply to LAN users. LAN users
might have hubs, switches, routers, or connection pods that cable and DSL modem
users do not. LAN users should contact their network administrator rather than an ISP.
Check the cables and power supplies
Make sure all modem cables are firmly plugged in, including the modem power cord,
the cable from the modem to the computer, and the cable from the modem to the
wall jack. Check the cables and power supplies to Ethernet hubs and routers.

Appendix C Connecting to the Internet

121

Turn the modem off and on and reset the modem hardware
Cycle the power on your DSL or cable modem by turning it off for a few minutes and
then turning it back on. Some ISPs recommend that you unplug the modem’s power
cord. If your modem has a reset button, you can press it either before or after cycling
the power.

PPPoE Connections
If you are unable to connect to your ISP using PPPoE, first check the cables and power
supplies, and then turn the modem off and on again and reset the modem hardware.
To check System Preferences settings:
1 Choose Apple () > System Preferences from the menu bar.
2 Click Network.
3 Choose Network Port Configurations from the Show pop-up menu.
4 Drag Built-in Ethernet to the top of the Port Configurations list.
5 Choose Built-in Ethernet from the Show pop-up menu.
6 Click PPPoE.
7 Select “Connect using PPPoE.”
8 Check the Account Name field to be sure you have entered the correct information
from your ISP.
9 If you chose to save your password, retype it to make sure it is correct.
10 Click TCP/IP. Make sure you’ve entered the correct information from your ISP
in this pane.
11 Click Apply Now.

122

Appendix C Connecting to the Internet

Network Connections
If you have two or more computers attempting to share an Internet connection, be
sure that your network is set up properly. You need to know if your ISP provides only
one IP address or if it provides multiple IP addresses, one for each computer.
If only one IP address is used, 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 Extreme Base Station can be used to
share one IP address among multiple computers. For information about using the
AirPort Extreme Base Station, check the onscreen help or visit the Apple AirPort
website at www.apple.com/airport.
If you cannot resolve the issue using these steps, contact your ISP.

Appendix C Connecting to the Internet

123

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