Documentation and troubleshooting available for new Apple peripherals

Oct 21, 2009 12:27 GMT  ·  By
Apple explains how to replace the batteries in a wireless Magic Mouse
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   Apple explains how to replace the batteries in a wireless Magic Mouse

Trying to stay ahead of the curve, Apple has posted a few Support documents online, outlining some of the aspects typical to its wireless peripherals, as well as providing troubleshooting for the new devices. The Mac maker explains how to remove and replace batteries, what to expect from the peripherals as far as the compatibility is concerned, and more.

In one of its just-released Support documents, Apple instructs customers on installing batteries in their Apple Wireless Keyboard or Apple Wireless Mouse. Apple has customers identify their peripheral model, first and foremost. Then, users are told how many batteries their keyboard / mouse needs, and what type. Those who have been using Apple products for a long time will know that Apple fancies AA-type batteries, while most of its peripherals require just two to work. Exceptions are the “Apple Wireless Keyboard (2007)” and the “White Extended Apple Wireless Keyboard,” which require three and four AA batteries, respectively.

Powered by two AA batteries is also Apple’s new Magic Mouse, the first one ever to use Multi-Touch. “When the batteries in your Apple wireless mouse need to be replaced, replace all of them at the same time with the same kind of batteries,” Apple says. “The Apple wireless mouse uses two AA batteries. Make sure the positive ends of the batteries are pointing the correct direction,” the Mac maker instructs customers. The instructions apply for earlier-generation, wireless (Mighty) mice as well.

Some customers may find that, for one reason or another, they need to locate the serial number on their wireless keyboard. Apple has a Support document just for that, saying, “The serial number of the Apple Wireless Keyboard is located on the bottom of the keyboard. The exact location will vary depending on the style of keyboard. For aluminum keyboards the serial number is located near the power button or centered between the power button and battery access cover.”

Finally, a technote titled “Apple Magic Mouse: Up or down scrolling and swiping do not work on Windows with Boot Camp” reveals that some features don’t work in Windows when using the Apple Magic Mouse with Boot Camp. Up or down scrolling and two finger swiping does not work under Windows, according to Apple. Needless to point out, the company will have to come up with a resolution for this incompatibility issue, perhaps by including an update to Boot Camp in its next incremental update to Mac OS X.

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Apple explains how to replace the batteries in a wireless Magic Mouse
Locating the serial number on a new, Apple wireless keyboard
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