Apple Remote: Troubleshooting tips

Apple, along side its much wider reported releases this fall, introduced an updated look to its Apple Remote. With a sleek new look that matches the brushed metal and black look of the iMac and MacBook Pro computers, the Apple Remote is a handy device to control Front Row and other applications and functions on your machine. Here are some troubleshooting tips that owners of any remote version may want to consider should their Apple Remote experience issues.

Common issues to consider when using the Apple Remote:

• Be sure to operate the Apple Remote within 30 feet of your computer.
• Be sure nothing is in the way. The remote needs a direct line of site to your machine.
• Make sure the remote is facing the proper direction. (Yes, that can be the fix sometimes.)
• Be sure your Mac is powered on and awake.
• Navigate to System Preferences > Security > General and be sure the "Disable remote control infrared receiver" check box is unchecked.

Your Mac could also be paired with a different remote. If you see the option to "Unpair..." in the System Preferences > Security > General pane, select that option then pair your current remote. You should also be sure your Apple Remote works with the active application. You can also use a digital camera or your built-in iSight camera on your Mac to test your Apple Remote to be sure it is emitting an IR signal. Open Photo Booth and point the Apple Remote at the iSight camera. Press and hold the Menu button and watch your screen. If you see a faint blinking from the remote, it is working properly. If you do not, replace its battery. For further instructions on troubleshooting your Apple Remote with Apple TV, read this.

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