How to Connect a Mac Mini
Anyone new to computers can end up being a little confused during the setup process. Mac Minis can be even more confusing, as they are smaller and very untraditional compared to a standard desktop computer. However, Mac Mini setup is actually much simpler than it may seem, requiring only five basic steps.
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Instructions
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Setup Guide for a Mac Mini
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1
Be sure that you have everything. It's always a good idea to do this with all electronics that you buy. A standard Mac Mini comes with the Mac Mini, an AC cord, a DVI-to-VGA adapter and a power adapter.
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2
Position and connect power to the Mac Mini. Set the Mac Mini on a desk, or any other place that you wish to have it. Use flat, level, hard surfaces only. Connect the AC cord into the power adapter. The AC cord and power adapter can be easily identified, as they are the only two actual cords that come with your Mac Mini. Plug the lead end of the power adapter into the appropriate spot on the back of the Mac Mini. Plug the lead end of the AC cord into a standard grounded wall outlet or power strip.
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3
Wire the Internet for the Mac Mini. Newer Mac Minis have a built-in wireless card. If you are going to connect your Mac Mini to an existing wireless network, you may skip this step.
Connect one end of a standard Ethernet cable (looks like a big phone cord) to the appropriate spot in the back of the Mac Mini. Connect the other end directly into your cable modem, DSL modem or wireless router, depending on your existing network setup.
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4
Connect a keyboard and mouse to Mac Mini. Mac Mini does not come with a keyboard or mouse. However, any standard USB keyboard and mouse will work. Connect both a keyboard and mouse to the back of the Mac Mini via USB. If you have an Apple keyboard, you may plug the mouse into the USB port on the keyboard, and connect the keyboard to a USB port on the back of the Mac Mini.
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5
Connect Mac Mini to a display. Mac Mini comes standard with a DVI-to-VGA adapter. You do not need to use this adapter with a DVI cable. You can connect the DVI cable, coming out from your monitor, directly into the back of Mac Mini. If you are using a VGA connection, you need to first connect the DVI-to-VGA adapter to the back of Mac Mini, then connect the VGA cable, coming out from your monitor, directly into the other side of the adapter. If you are using a newer connection type, such as DVI, you will need to purchase a separate adapter. After the monitor is connected to Mac Mini, push the power button on the back of the Mac Mini to start the computer.
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