MacMini server wakeup?
Posted by: Stefan Vogt on 02 August 2012
Dear MacMini users,
I think about using a MacMini as music server (e.g., running Playback, and not via optical out):
I would like the MacMini to go to a sleep state when it is not used for an hour or so. When in sleep mode, is the MacMini then still recognised on the network by my ND5XS (and does the MacMini wake up when I want to play a tune on the ND5XS), or would I need to wakeup the MacMini first by other means, please (such as Apple remote)? Sorry for this mundane question!
Many thanks,
Stefan
Hi Stefan,
Not mundane at all!
First ensure that 'wake for network access' is checked in the 'Energy Saver' pane in 'System Preferences'. This should mean that the MacMini will wake when your ND5XS is accessing it.
Second, keep your Apple remote handy in case the MacMini needs a nudge to get going. I've found in the past that some applications will wake it and some won't.
I used to stream from my MacMini to a Uniti and as far as I remember, the Uniti would still see it as a upnp server. However, I've long since given up on upnp streaming with a Mac and run a digital out directly to the Uniti, so somebody with more relevant experience should be able to help you with that question.
Regards,
Matthew
We don't let ours sleep, but when we did, we would occasionally need to nudge it with the remote, in spite of the settings all being correct for wake-on-access. Ours is only connected through WiFi, so the issue may have been with the WiFi not listening. Hard-wired networks may work better in this regard.
Just make sure that wake for network access is ticked in the energy saver preferences, and fix the ip .
But to be fair it barely uses electric when in full swing.
Many thanks to all!
Matthew, I had almost forgotten your warning in January: "Unless you want to enter a world of pain, don't contemplate using the MacMini as a UPnP server" (rather, you recommended optical). Perhaps the difficulties you encountered with UPnP are now more manageable? I do like the idea of using nothing but the slim naim remote control for selecting music...
Further warnings welcome - perhaps I better wait for the HD5XS?
Best,
Stefan
Stefan - I just set mine (and the NAS) to go off at night at stay powered up when I'll be around to use it in the day or evening.
James
I never let my Mac Mini, QNAP NAS or the whole Hi-FI system sleep.
Perhaps the difficulties you encountered with UPnP are now more manageable? I do like the idea of using nothing but the slim naim remote control for selecting music...
Hi Stefan, I haven't gone back to UPnP since that post and I haven't missed it. I'm currently running Amarra HiFi and I don't think I've ever enjoyed my music more. It sounds great and that's with just a basic optical cable. Plus the advantage of using the Apple Remote app means I don't have to squint at the Uniti's tiny display from across the room.
I hear J-River are making a Mac version of their playback software and perhaps PS audio's 'eLyric music manager' will be at a stable version soon? Then there will be more UPnP choices for the Mac.
Best,
Matthew
I just turn mine off,IE just shut it down power off.
It comes to life when i turn it on to use it within 30 seconds.
All my kit other than Naim and Linn boxes goes off at mains until i want to use them.
Stu
This is an option if you stick an ssd in the mini,it should bootin around 10 seconds.
Many thanks again, Matthew and others!
the good thing about the MacMini is that we have the choice between optical and UPnP streaming.
But I will wait for the next update, - hopefully with lots of flash memory!
Best,
Stefan