New MBP user - a few questions if you wouldn't mind

Hades

Hades

Hades

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A few questions if people wouldn't mind...

1) I've bought a used 13" MBP. It still has warranty. How do I transfer that warranty into my name?

2) can I use Time Machine to backup to a standard network drive or a USB drive? Or do I need to buy a Time Capsule (and what's so special about the time capsule)?

3) Can I tether my phone to the MBP using bluetooth?

4) The battery in the MBP is not user-replaceable so it's not possible to run it without the battery attached. To keep the battery in good condition should I always try to use it on battery until it needs charging, or should I just not worry about it and plug it in when using it? I'm trying to reduce charge cycles. With a normal laptop I'd run it on mains and just take the battery out.

5) The headphone port is a single connector. So you can either have a mic or a pair of headphones. Can you buy an adapter to allow you to plug both in (ie for Skype) or will I need to use a USB soundcard?

6) What are the functions on the F5 and F6 keys? I thought they were brightness controls at first but I then realised that brightness is on F1 and F2.


Thanks in advance. I'll probably add more questions as I think of them, rather than keep creating separate threads. I'm loving the MBP so far :D
 
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1) Not entirely certain on this one, although isn't the warranty tied to the serial number rather than an individual, hence it follows the machine? If that's the case you should be fine. Maybe someone else can confirm.

2) Time Machine will prefer a USB/Firewire HDD, but can be hacked to see a NAS. It's been a while since I researched into this so try googling and see what you can find - there may be shortfalls when it comes to restoration from a NAS.

3) Depends what phone really. I'm assuming you're referring to a non-iPhone. My Nokia will tether as a modem via either Bluetooth or USB, giving me 3G access. This will work for quite a few Nokia models, but I'm not sure about others. Take a look on your phone manufacturer's support website for your particular model.

4) I tend to just leave mine trickle charging while I'm at my desk (plugged in to the mains with the battery in). Had heard this was the best thing to do, and it doesn't increase your charge cycles.

5) I'd be interested in an answer to this too. Although I have to say, the inbuilt mic has been superb for me. Very crisp and clear.

6) F5 and F6 control the brightness of your keyboard backlight. However, they will only function once the keyboard is illuminated, which will happen when your room gets dark enough given that you haven't disabled the ambient light sensor in system preferences.
 
1) I'm pretty sure the warranty is linked to the serial number and therefor follows the machine.

5) I just use headphones and the inbuilt mic for Skype and it works well. Not sure about an adapter but you can get mics/headsets that work using usb.
 
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