Apple Mac Mini MC816LL/A Desktop (OLD VERSION)

by Apple

• Intel Core i5 Processor 2.5GHz
• 4GB SDRAM RAM
• 500GB 5400RPM Hard Drive
• AMD Radeon HD 6630M
• Mac OS X 10.7 Lion

Product Description

Amazon.com

Mac mini is even more of a powerhouse, thanks to a new dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, discrete AMD Radeon HD graphics, and ultrafast Thunderbolt technology. It also comes with OS X Lion, the world's most advanced desktop operating system.

 

The powerhouse Mac mini, now with high-speed Thunderbolt
(view larger).

This version of the Mac mini (model MC816LL/A) features a 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5 dual-core processor and AMD Radeon HD 6630M discrete graphics (with 256 MB of dedicated video memory) as well as 4 GB of RAM (expandable to 8 GB) and 500 GB of hard drive storage (see full specifications below). It also comes with the iLife software suite, which includes the latest versions of iPhoto, iMovie, and GarageBand.

OS X Lion

Every Mac comes with OS X Lion, the latest release of the world's most advanced desktop operating system. With over 250 features including Multi-Touch gestures, Mission Control, full-screen apps, and Launchpad, OS X Lion takes the Mac further than ever.

Key OS X Lion Features

• Mission Control provides a bird's-eye view of everything running on your Mac.
• Launchpad puts all your apps front and center for easy access.
• View apps full screen and switch between them with a swipe.
• Interact with your Mac using intuitive new Multi-Touch gestures.

Key Features

Small Footprint, Excellent Versatility

The Mac mini features a precisely constructed unibody enclosure that even houses its own integrated power supply into the 7.7-inch square aluminum enclosure (that's also 1.4 inches thin)--eliminating the need for an external power brick. Additionally, the Mac mini helps contain your environmental footprint with a 10 watt power consumption.

Despite its smaller size, the Mac mini offers a full range of ports for connecting to your existing peripherals--from keyboards and mice to external hard drives and displays (via the Thunderbolt and HDMI ports). And when you're ready to add more memory, the Mac mini's bottom removable panel makes the upgrade process a breeze.

 

Just add your own display, keyboard, and mouse--such as the Apple Thunderbolt Display, Wireless Keyboard, and Magic Mouse (not included; view larger).

 

A full range of ports, including Thunderbolt and HDMI plus an SDXC card slot (view larger).

Revolutionary Thunderbolt Technology

Developed by Intel with collaboration from Apple, high-speed Thunderbolt I/O (input/output) technology delivers an amazing 10 gigabits per second of transfer speeds in both directions. Built into the Mac mini, the Thunderbolt port allows you to connect to new Thunderbolt-compatible peripherals as well as existing USB and FireWire peripherals using simple adapters. You'll be able to move data up to 20 times faster than with USB 2.0 and more than 12 times faster than with FireWire 800, and you can daisy-chain up to six high-speed devices without using a hub. Thunderbolt also supports DisplayPort for high resolution displays and works with existing adapters for HDMI, DVI, and VGA displays.

Key Specifications

• 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5 dual-core processor (3 MB on-chip shared L3 cache) helps you breeze through everyday tasks such as emailing, web browsing, and working with documents, spreadsheets, and presentations in iWork or Microsoft Office for Mac (both sold separately).
• AMD Radeon HD 6630M processor (with 256 MB of discrete DDR5 SDRAM memory) for powering graphics-intensive applications and providing a super-responsive gaming experience.
• 500 GB hard drive (5400 RPM)
• 4 GB installed RAM (1333 MHz DDR3; supports up to 8 GB)
• Wireless-N Wi-Fi wireless networking (based on 802.11n specification; 802.11a/b/g compatible)
• Gigabit Ethernet wired networking (10/100/1000BASE-T)
• Bluetooth 4.0 technology for connecting with peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and cell phones.
• Four USB 2.0 ports
• One FireWire 800 port
• Thunderbolt port with support for up to 2560 x 1600-pixel resolution (compatible with Mini DisplayPort devices)
• HDMI audio/video output with support for up to 1920 x 1200-pixel resolution and multichannel audio output (included adapter for DVI output).
• Combined optical digital output/headphone output (also includes line-in/microphone jack)
• Secure Digital memory card slot compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC media
• Dimensions: 7.7 x 7.7 x 1.4 inches (WxDxH)
• Weight: 2.7 pounds

What's in the Box

Mac mini; power cord; HDMI to DVI Adapter; printed and electronic documentation

Note: The Mac mini does not come with an optical drive, however OS X Lion offers the convenient DVD or CD Sharing feature, which lets you wirelessly "borrow" the optical drive of a nearby Mac or PC. So you can install applications from a DVD or CD and have full access to an optical drive without having to carry one around. Additionally, you can connect an optional optical drive (such as the MacBook Air SuperDrive) via one of the USB ports.

Included Software

• OS X Lion
  Includes Mail, Address Book, iCal, the Mac App Store, iTunes, Safari, Time Machine, FaceTime, Photo Booth, Mission Control, Launchpad, AirDrop, Resume, Auto Save, Versions, Quick Look, Spotlight, QuickTime, and more.
• Lion Recovery
  OS X Lion includes a built-in set of tools for repairing your Mac in the Recovery HD, a new feature that lets you repair disks or reinstall OS X Lion without a physical disc.

Limited Warranty And Service

The Mac mini comes with 90 days of free telephone support and a 1-year limited warranty, which can be extended to 3 years with the AppleCare Protection Plan.

AppleCare Protection Plan

Because Apple makes the hardware, the operating system, and many applications, the Mac is a truly integrated system. And only the AppleCare Protection Plan gives you one-stop service and support from Apple experts, so most issues can be resolved in a single call. Extend the complimentary service and support on your Mac to 3 years from the original Mac purchase date with the AppleCare Protection Plan. You get direct telephone access to Apple experts for technical questions, and you get global repair coverage--including both parts and labor--for your Mac and select Apple peripherals.

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Optional Accessories and Related Products

	Apple Thunderbolt Display The world's first Thunderbolt display doesn't just give you more pixels. It gives you more possibilities. Built-in Thunderbolt technology lets you connect as many as six devices through a single port and transfer data up to 20 times faster than with USB 2.0.
	Time Capsule Time Capsule is the revolutionary backup device that works wirelessly with Time Machine in OS X Leopard or later. It automatically backs up everything, so you never have to worry about losing important files. It also doubles as a full-featured 802.11n Wi-Fi base station. Choose from 2 TB and 3 TB models.
	AirPort Extreme Base Station Speed, range, and easy setup make AirPort Extreme the perfect wireless solution for home, school, and small business. It offers simultaneous dual-band support and lets up to 50 people share Internet access, a wireless network, a hard drive, and a printer.
	AirPort Express Base Station AirPort Express is powerful enough to run a home Wi-Fi network for up to 10 people, yet small enough to take on the road. It also lets you stream music from your iTunes library through your stereo or powered speakers using AirPlay.
	Apple MacBook Air SuperDrive If you want to burn discs or install software you already own on disc, consider the external USB-based MacBook Air SuperDrive. It takes up very little space and easily connects to Mac mini with a single USB cable--there's no separate power adapter.
	Apple Wireless Keyboard Incredibly thin and streamlined, the Apple Wireless Keyboard lets you type on your desk, on your lap, or anywhere within range. Wherever you put it, the keyboard will take up minimal space. Just like your Mac mini.
	Apple Magic Trackpad Magic Trackpad is the first Multi-Touch trackpad designed to work with your Mac desktop computer, and it supports a full set of gestures. Click, scroll, swipe, and rotate to control what's onscreen. Use it along with your mouse or as an alternative to one.
	Apple Magic Mouse Magic Mouse is unlike any other mouse you've ever used. The Multi-Touch surface lets you use gestures to swipe through photos and scroll down web pages. And the entire mouse is the button, so you can click anywhere.
	Apple Remote Control your Mac mini from afar with the sleek aluminum Apple Remote. Play, pause, adjust volume, move forward and back, and access menus while playing music and video.

Product Description

Mac mini is a good choice for those who need a compact, powerful Computer but already own the essentials - like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Mac mini features a sleek, aluminum design and includes ports and slots to connect to all your devices and networks. Mac mini is the world's most energy-efficient Desktop computer, and it's the most affordable way to enjoy the new Mac OS X Lion and iLife.

Mac mini features a 1.4-inch-thin seamless unibody enclosure carved from a single, solid block of aluminum. The power supply is built right into Mac mini. So there's no bulky brick, and there are fewer cables to connect. A removable panel on the bottom makes upgrading the memory completely painless. Mac mini is full of big ideas.

The latest dual-core Intel Core i5 processors come standard on Mac mini. Built-in Thunderbolt technology lets you daisy-chain up to six Thunderbolt peripherals, including the new Apple Thunderbolt Display, to a single port. It also supports Mini DisplayPort peripherals you might already have, including the Apple LED Cinema Display. The HDMI port lets you connect Mac mini to your HDTV with a single cable. And a built-in SDXC card slot makes speedy work of transferring photos and videos from your digital cameras. The latest 802.11n wireless technology is built into every Mac mini. Bluetooth wireless technology is also built in, so you can connect accessories such as a wireless keyboard and mouse. AMD Radeon HD 6630M Graphics with 256MB of GDDR5 memory 802.11n Wi-Fi wireless networking; IEEE 802.11a/b/g compatible Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet Audio - Built-in speaker, Audio line in minijack (digital/analog), Audio line out/headphone minijack (digital/analog), HDMI port supports multichannel audio output, Support for Apple iPhone headset with microphone Connections & Expansion - 4 x USB 2.0, FireWire 800, Thunderbolt (2560 x 1600)

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

39 of 41 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars 2011 Mac Mini is a Winner compared to the standard tower PC September 20, 2011

By RFlyer

When my Windows 6700 Core Duo PC needed a new power supply, new RAM (the old stuff would get hot and hummm), and the fans sounded like a medium range jet powered helicopter trying to take off just from opening email I knew it was time for something new. I've thought about making the Mac jump from Windows for a long time but was put off by the all in one iMac's since I already have two big dual displays. Having an iPhone and iPad already I thought it may be time to complete the trifecta and the release of the new Mac Mini pushed me to buy. WOW is this an awesome and powerful little computer. It's easy to setup, its a gorgeous yet small design, it doesn't raise the temp in the room with fans and power consumption like my old tower, and its been worry free so far. I did not overly enjoy having to learn iPhoto and still recommend Picasa over iPhoto. Good thing Picasa is free in the Mac App store. The Mail app is fairly worthless in my opinion, stick to webmail and things will stay much simpler. Dual monitor support was a breeze with the purchase of a Apple Mini DisplayPort to DVI Adapter MB570Z/A and the included HDMI to DVI adapter. I also purchased an Apple Time Capsule 2TB (4TH GENERATION) at the same time and it has also been a terrific N-Router as well as an automatic backup for the Mac. I didn't waste the money on an Apple OEM RAM upgrade and went with the Kingston Apple 8GB Kit (2x4GB Modules) 1066MHz DDR3 SODIMM iMac and Macbook Memory (KTA-MB1066K2/8G) and purchased the upgrade through Amazon. When the memory arrived it was VERY easy to install and now I've got 8G of RAM for a fraction of the cost that Apple wanted. OSX Lion has not been without issues but Apple is doing a reasonable job with updates.

96 of 108 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Great performance July 23, 2011

By Brian Stucki

We've installed a good number of machines at Macminicolo, here is what we learned

A quick list:

The base mac mini now starts at $599. This is a $100 decrease from the previous base mac mini.

The Mac mini has kept the same basic shape. You can still twist the bottom cover to upgrade RAM easily.

Apple has eliminated the optical drive across the board with this release.

There are a good number of build-to-order options. You can use SSD, upgrade any machine to 8GB of RAM, upgrade both internal drives for a total of 1.5TB. Amazon only offers the three stock machines.(But you can upgrade the RAM easily on your own.)

The Mac mini has left the Core 2 Duo family and now uses Intel i5 and i7 processors. A significant upgrade. In some cases doubling the performance.

The RAM has changed from PC8500 DDR3 1066MHz to PC10600 DDR3 1333MHz.The Apple avilable limit is 8GB, but we're hoping to test 16GB soon.

The Mac mini gains Thunderbolt. This will be a huge deal eventually as more ThunderBolt Accessories are released.

The mini machine still uses a ridiculously small amount of power and is nearly silent in operation.

59 of 65 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Best computer I've ever owned, hands down September 21, 2011

By rbnn

This was an extraordinary computer, and I've owned PCs, Suns, and Linux machines (this was my first Mac though). It's silent in operation, it has a ton of superb and well-integrated software, and it's really well supported and it can do things PCs cannot do, or cannot do well. I bought mine from the Apple Store, I am not sure what is gained by going through Amazon.

Quietness: This thing is silent. I upgraded to the SSD, which I suggest everyone do, and I cannot hear it at all, except once in a while when the fans come on (only Flash can do that). Even then, it's much quieter than my old Dell, which was twice as expensive and had that constant whine of cheap fans that's signals a PC like buzzing signals the housefly.

Power: This has a great Unix underneath, that is easy to access via Terminal and emacs. I had to suffer for years with Cygwin on the PC (Windows pathetic attempt to copy Unix - the world's worst Unix, constantly crashing etc., bugs galore). I prefer this Unix to Linux on the client side simply because all the polish is there - I can access really good sound cards, sequencers, video editors, and so on, without spending all my time researching drivers. Linux of course is excellent on the server side, but for client-side work, I found the Mac more pleasant.

Persistence: This is so quiet and so reliable that I really never, or almost never, have to shut down my apps. I only very rarely even hard boot the machine. That lets me just keep things up indefinitely - I have an emacs that's been up for a week, running stuff. It's really hard to explain this to a PC person, but to have the same app just up for weeks and weeks while you hone it and work on it, it's very productive.

Support: With Dell, when I had a problem, even after paying for support, they would invariably blame some third-party software vendor (e.g. Cyberlink) who in turn would blame the hardware, or just tell me to live with it (e.g. noisy fans). With Apple, the problems don't arise in the first place, or they are solved.

Usefulness: You just get more stuff done with this. The software just works better.

Cheap: There is so much free software that comes with this that you just can't get on a PC or would be really expensive. Sequencers, video editors. Even Preview would cost $200 to get on a PC (I know, I paid that to get Acrobat Standard, but Preview already has the same functionality). With Windows, it was so hit-or-miss whether anything you bought or downloaded would work at all, or would be a Trojan or some buggy piece of junk.With the Mac I get all kinds of software tools that would cost a fortune on the PC - the whole XCode suite is basically free, something comparable for Windows is four figures.

Sound: the sound on this is better than my Dell's even with a higher-end sound card.

No Junk! What's on there, works, in general. And it's there for a reason.

One example of the "No Junk" policy helped me.

My (much more expensive) Dell had a Blu-Ray player. Sounds great, doesn't it - and you can't get one for a Mac. But this was a typical Dell/Windows/PC world Blu-Ray player: in other words, junk. It was incredibly noisy, especially with the even noiser PC on. The software Dell shipped was even junkier, "Cyberlink PowerDVD", just, utter, complete junk. The Dell/Cyberlink so-called "Blu-ray" player not only lacked a step-frame feature, and only ever could play about half of Blu-Rays at all, but the whole thing stopped working a year after I bought it! Apparently some Cyberlink "upgrade" ruined it. (And dealing with PC software vendors --- the hours of wasted time, the constant demands to reinstall and reboot everything no matter what, their inevitable conclusion that the problem lies with some other vendor's product---I do not miss that, I can tell you)

On my Mac, there is no Blu-Ray player, true. So, just spend $100 on a separate Blu-Ray player. I did this, it works way better and more reliably than the PC blu-ray ever did. And the Mac is so quiet, I don't even have to turn it off to watch a Blu-Ray. It's just an example of how on *paper*, some PC feature sounds great; but in *reality*, Apple's implementation saves time because you don't have to fight the junk software and junk hardware with which typical PCs are crammed to the gills.

Downsides:

The main downside is the learning curve (for a PC user): it can take a few weeks to get the system configured how you want it and are used to where everything goes. And I don't really know a single good reference, other than a friend, experience, Apple Support, and Google. For some Windows programs, especially games, you need Parallels. Flash is worse on Mac than on the PC. Also, you want at least 4 GB.

Final hints:

You want at least 4GB RAM. I strongly recommend an SSD as well.

I personally prefer a gaming mouse+SteerMouse, and a good mechanical-touch PC keyboard, to the Magic Trackpad/Apple Keyboard that Apple sells, but I know people who prefer the TrackPad.