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Okay to use a Mac with the lid closed -- or not?

S

Sounds Good

macrumors 68000
Original poster
Jul 8, 2007
1,692
57
Since the screen on a MB or MBP can't be pushed all way down (flat with the desk), I might have to keep the lid closed when I hook up the laptop to my external monitor. The reason has to do with space constraints.

So here's my question: Can a Mac be used with the lid closed, or not? I've read warnings from people that say the Macs get so hot that it would damage the machine to keep the lid closed. Is this true, or just an exaggeration?

Bottom line: is it okay to use a Mac with the lid closed -- or not?

Thanks! :)
 
If you connect an external monitor, mouse, and keyboard, OS X will allow you to run it without it sleeping. If you want it to run without those things, you need a hack. There is one called InsomniaX, if you search on Google MacUpdate has it. Its a menubar item that allows you to turn on the no-sleep mode.
 
The above is 100% OK.

If you want to increase cooling even further, look at getting a stand which will raise the MB off the desk.

I suggest the mStand by Raindesign. But there are cheaper alternatives out there.
 
It should be fine. As mentioned, it's a supported configuration. In addition, I'm sure my MBP gets hotter while I'm playing WoW (with the lid open) than it would under general use with the lid closed, and I haven't had any issues :)
 
ScottDrummer said:
how do you run this clamshell mode without it going to sleep?
Click to expand...

You need to connect the external monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the MBP, and then close the lid, allowing it to go to sleep. Then wake up the computer by hitting a key on the keyboard, with the external monitor plugged in and turned on. It should wake up, and the laptop screen should turn off- allowing you to work in lid-closed mode.

If you are using a bluetooth enabled keyboard, make sure that "allow bluetooth devices to wake up computer" is checked in the system preferences.

I do not use any hack, or 3rd party software- this method works well, and is defined by Apple themselves.
 
anirban said:
You need to connect the external monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the MBP, and then close the lid, allowing it to go to sleep.

Then wake up the computer by hitting a key on the keyboard, with the external monitor plugged in and turned on. It should wake up, and the laptop screen should turn off- allowing you to work in lid-closed mode.
Click to expand...
What happens to the WiFi connection when the MBP goes to sleep for those few seconds before you wake it again?
 
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