06-24-2010, 04:32 PM

I recently purchased the new macbook pro, and since it is a new computer I've had to do several software updates and other downloads. It appears that all downloads stop when I close the laptop lid, and if I leave it open the computer eventually goes to sleep anyway. I am wondering if there is a way to keep downloads going for hours, if needed, while the laptop is closed. I am new to this stuff and any and all help would be appreciated.

06-24-2010, 04:46 PM

Originally Posted by sidneyfife69

I recently purchased the new macbook pro, and since it is a new computer I've had to do several software updates and other downloads. It appears that all downloads stop when I close the laptop lid, and if I leave it open the computer eventually goes to sleep anyway. I am wondering if there is a way to keep downloads going for hours, if needed, while the laptop is closed. I am new to this stuff and any and all help would be appreciated.

Two suggestions:

1. To keep your laptop from going to sleep when the display (laptop lid) is open...go to:

Apple Menu > System Preferences > Energy Saver

...and adjust accordingly.

2. If you plug your laptop into an external monitor (with the laptop lid closed)...try "clamshell" mode:

Apple Portables: How to use your computer in closed clamshell (display closed) mode with an external display

HTH,

- Nick

06-24-2010, 08:30 PM

If you want to close the lid but keep the computer on you can use insomniax
semaja2
Do note - it can get too hot - especially if you are trying to do something with heavy compute - like video encoding.