New Mac Mini

[JeffN]

Hey guys -
Just picked up a new mac mini for a small catalyst rig. I'm only doing a few layers for this project so I'm not too concerned about things. However I would like to make sure I stay stable. What should I be turning off on the mac to achieve the best results?

[kiwi]

Hey guys -
Just picked up a new mac mini for a small catalyst rig. I'm only doing a few layers for this project so I'm not too concerned about things. However I would like to make sure I stay stable. What should I be turning off on the mac to achieve the best results?

Same things as you would on any other catalyst system.
Anything that can access the HDD in the background, and anything that just isn't needed.
Spotlight
energy saver
wifi
file sharing
screen sharing
anti virus if your running any

[Mr_P]

Screen sharing and file sharing have minimal effect when dormant in background (ie when not in use)

Agreed - not to use them in show time - but they are essential tools during setup... I usually leave them enabled (but inactive) with no loss of performance...
However, if you only have one Mac and no network connectivity - then you might as well disable them...

Also:
- disable screen saver
- disable all notifications when inserting CD/DVD
- disable disk powerdown as part of energy saver settings
- diable time machine
- disable bluetooth (unless using BT mouse!)
- disable mouse zooming
- disable expose & spaces
- disable all keyboard shortcuts (except screenshot)
- disable any login items (unless necessary)
- disable auto software update
- disable flash

Basically - go thru system preferences and turn almost everything off...

S