Turning off mouse & keyboard

The salesman at the Apple Store told me I didn't have to turn either off, and that the batteries should last months. i've only had this computer 2 weeks, so I don't know first hand.

...JER

Hello:

Apple Bluetooth devices go into a very low power mode after a brief period of non-use. I never turn mine off (unless I am gone for several days).

IMHO, it is not helpful to turn the devices off.

Barry

If you do need to turn the keyboard off, the right-hand end of the top tube part of the keyboard (acts as its riser in the back) is the on-off button. Press the button until you get the on-screen diconnect notice (or until the indicator light on the keyboard flashes a few times).

Initially I would turn off the keyboard and mouse overnight, and perhaps during the day when I was not going to be using the Mac for many hours. After a month I got tired of doing that, and started to leave them on.

I've had this machine about 3 months now, and the battery level for the keyboard is still showing 100%. However, I've had to change the batteries in the mouse about a month ago, and it's now reporting 50%.

Even though I tend to do more mousing than keyboarding, this disparity in rate of consumption seems a bit much. I've been considering getting one of those non-contact recharger thingies - you put special batteries in the mouse, then place the mouse on top of a pad-like device when you're not using it and the batteries are 'magically' recharged.

*****

Apple suggests not turning the iMac off unless you are going to be away from it for several days.

Hi Don! 🙂

A couple of "bits" of information:

I've had this machine about 3 months now, and the battery level for the keyboard is still showing 100%. However, I've had to change the batteries in the mouse about a month ago, and it's now reporting 50%.

This is a problem (incorrect battery readings) that apparently started with OS X 10.6.7. The readings are consistently high. The problem has been reported and the "powers that be" are aware of the issue. I suspect a future release will take care of the incorrect reading issue. In the meantime, the "mighty monitor" widget that runs under Dashboard seems to have correct readings.

I have been using rechargeable batteries and a 15 minute charger (all obtained on eBay new at a reasonable price). I happen to be using Energizers (2450 mAh). Although the batteries do not last as long as Lithium batteries, the cost is less over a period of time. Rechargeables also are "feel good" as they are environmentally friendly.

Regards,

Barry

P.S. My mighty mouse does require batteries more often than my keyboard, although I suspect it is because I use the mouse a lot as I type VERY slowly.

😀

Thanks, Barry!