kad: Need tips and info about batteries ?

My new Mouse or Keyboard batteries don't last long !

The new Apple Wireless Mouse and Keyboard both provide you with a very long battery life, up to 3 and 9 months. Good news is that they even come loaded with the batteries you need !

Some users have raised questions about how long these batteries should last in « normal use » and what to do if they do not last as long as expected.

II - My batteries lasted a bit less than expected

The 3 and 9 month estimated battery life is calculated based on average use numbers. Keep in mind that the work that you perform on your Mac may be very demanding for one of your peripherals.

For example, if your are a typist, you will probably use your keyboard a lot more than most users. On the other hand, if you use iMovie all day long to re-arrange clips, chances are that your mouse batteries will run out quicker than the keyboard ones.

You should also make sure that you replace the batteries inserted in the keyboard or the mouse by the exact same model. Using other compatible batteries may work but older technology batteries may not last as long as the latest ones.

Read carefully the instructions printed in the manual about the handling and disposal of batteries.

</blockqutote>II - My mouse never sleeps and the batteries run down !

Your Apple wireless mouse has been designed to automatically enter a low-power mode after a period of inactivity to prevent the batteries from running out quickly.

However, you should keep in mind that some factors may prevent it from functioning normally. For example, you may want to make sure that the mouse is on a textured surface such as a table top, or a mouse pad that is a solid color. Whenever possible, avoid glass, or other glossy materials : the reflection of the light on your desk could be interpreted by the mouse as « movement » an prevent it from reacting normally ? this is the case of all optical mice.

Also, make sure that your mouse cannot move unexpectedly, waking it up.

III - I received my mouse or keyboard yesterday and now the batteries are dead !

Would your battery life be considerably less than what your were expecting, chances are that the batteries that were added into your mouse or keyboard box during the manufacturing process were faulty.

Although Apple takes every possible action to ensure the quality of its shipments, including using top-of-the-line batteries, you should keep in mind that batteries can experience issues and not perform as expected.

In that case, simply replace the batteries by a new set and see what happens. You may want to make sure that you are using the right batteries :

• The Apple Wireless Mouse comes with two non-rechargeable AA lithium batteries. You can also use alkaline or rechargeable AA batteries
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• The Apple Wireless Keyboard comes with four non-rechargeable AA lithium batteries. You can also use alkaline or rechargeable AA batteries

Keep in mind that the batteries that were installed in the keyboard or the mouse were chosen for their performance. Whenever possible, replacing them by the exact same model will give you an optimum battery life.

Read carefully the instructions printed in the manual about the handling and disposal of batteries. Do not attempt to use any other kind of batteries : trying to connect your keyboard to a square 9V battery isn't going to make things easier !

IV - Still no luck !

Would you still experience battery life issues, you may want to call Apple directly and ask for assistance. More information about that may be found in the documentation that came with your mouse or keyboard.

The Apple wireless mouse and keyboard are two ultra-cool, easy-to-use peripherals and you should not experience any issues with them.

Do not hesitate to post on the forums ! We would all be very glad to help you!