Portables Fast Start: The New User's Guide to Apple Notebooks
Summary
Got a new MacBook or MacBook Pro? This handy Fast Start guide will help you set up your computer and get you on your way to working and playing in no time.
Products Affected
Portable Computers
1) Plug In the Power
Carefully remove your Mac portable from the box and place it on a sturdy table or work surface. Then locate the power adapter that came with your Mac, connect the appropriate end to your computer, and plug the other end into a working electrical outlet. Your battery should begin charging. If you already have access to the Internet, connect your Ethernet cable or phone line to the appropriate port on your Mac if you're wired, or do nothing if you have access to a wireless network and have AirPort already installed in your new Mac.
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2) Turn It On and Set It Up
Open your computer lid and press the power button to the right of the keyboard to turn it on. The first time you turn on your Mac, the Setup Assistant will appear and walk you through setting up your account. If you have another Mac, the Setup Assistant can also help you automatically transfer files and other information from your old Mac to your new one. If you prefer, you can do this later with Migration Assistant (find it in the Utilities folder inside of the Applications folder). For more information, please see the manual that came with your Mac.
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3) Have Fun!
Once you're up and running, you're free to get to work or go have some fun. If you're a brand new Mac user and haven't a clue about what to do now, our Mac 101 series of fun, online courses will help you learn how to use your Mac and all of the applications that came with it, including Mail (for email), Safari (to browse the web), iTunes (to play music and more), and iPhoto (to view, edit, and share your pictures). And if you're a switcher, be sure to check out Switch 101—Mac 101 for former PC users.
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4) Learn More
The following contains lots of information that will help you enjoy your Mac to its fullest.
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Need Help?
Be sure to visit our Apple portable and Mac OS X Support pages to learn more about using your Mac, troubleshooting issues, and getting service and support. And if you need assistance, consult with other users and experts in our Apple Discussions forums—you can ask a question, answer a question, or simply read what others have to say.
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Have Fun with Your Mac—iLife Video Tutorials
Our video tutorials are a great way to get started with all of the iLife applications that come with your Mac—iPhoto, GarageBand, iTunes, iMovie HD, iDVD, and iWeb. Discover all the fun that can be had with your music, photos, movies, opinions, and more.