Improve Workflow - Macally Blog

USB C Numeric Keypad: A Must-Have in 2023

David Chen — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 22:47:18 +0000

The latest MacBook models have adopted USB-C ports as the standard for charging and connecting peripherals. This change has led to the development of new accessories that are designed specifically for the USB-C port, including number pads. A USB-C number pad is a an essential tool for number crunchers, data entry and much more.

Streamline Your Setup with USB C Number Pads

One of the main advantages of using a USB-C number pad is that it allows you to maintain a minimalist and streamlined setup. Unlike traditional number pads that require a separate USB connection, a USB-C number pad connects directly to your MacBook using a single cable. This eliminates the need for additional cords and ports, which can clutter your workspace and make it harder to stay organized.

Compatibility & Convenience with USB-C Number Pads

Another advantage of USB-C keyboards is their ability to provide power to other devices. Many USB-C keyboards have built-in USB ports, which can be used to connect to other devices, such as webcams, mice and flash drives etc. This means that you can power your devices while you work, eliminating the need for multiple adapters or chargers, and making it more convenient to stay connected.

Here is a solid go-to option for USB-C number pads that we recommend for MacBook users:

Wired USB C Numeric Keypad

Specifications

Dimensions: 4.7″ x 11.2″ x .75″
Weight: 0.73 lb

Pros vs Cons

Description

The USB Type-C Numeric Keypad is a must-have for any MacBook user. Simply plug it into a USB-C port and start typing. The 22 full-size keys are comfortable to use and the tilted slope helps prevent wrist strain. Made to work with all Apple Mac devices with Type-C port, it’s also compatible with any computer with a USB-C Port. Its slim and compact design makes it perfect for travel. Get yours now and simplify your data entry tasks.

$19.99 On Amazon

Wireless RF USB C Numeric Keypad

Specifications

Dimensions: 4.7″ x 11.2″ x .75″
Weight: 0.73 lb

Pros vs Cons

Description

Our USB-C keypad is the perfect solution for entering data with ease on your MacBook. With a 2.4G wireless connection, it’s compatible with all devices using USB-C ports, including Macs, PCs, iPads, and Android devices. Charge it up and take it with you anywhere without worrying about batteries. Our 18-key layout features scissor switches for quiet typing and a sloped angle for wrist comfort. At Macally, customer satisfaction is top priority and our keypad comes with easy customer support and up to 2 years of warranty

Releasing Soon

In conclusion, USB-C number pads are a great option for anyone looking for a portable and functional way to add a numeric keypad to their MacBook. With their sleek design, compatibility with other USB-C devices, and compatibility with the latest MacBook models, these number pads are the perfect choice for anyone looking to maximize their productivity and stay organized.

The post USB C Numeric Keypad: A Must-Have in 2023 first appeared on Macally Blog.

Mac Won’t Turn On? Easy Fixes Here

David Chen — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 21:15:13 +0000

If your Mac or MacBook won’t turn on, it can be a frustrating and confusing experience. However, there are a few things you can try to get your device up and running again. In this blog, we will go over some common causes of a Mac or MacBook that won’t turn on, and what you can do to fix them.

First and foremost, make sure that your Mac or MacBook is plugged in and that the power outlet is working. It may seem obvious, but sometimes the solution is as simple as making sure that your device is properly plugged in. If your device is plugged in and the power outlet is working, but your Mac or MacBook still won’t turn on, then it’s time to move on to the next steps.

Your Mac or MacBook Might Have A Dead Battery

Another common cause of a Mac or MacBook that won’t turn on is a dead battery. If your device is not plugged in, try plugging it in and see if it turns on. If it does, your battery may be dead and you’ll need to replace it. We’ll be coming out with a guide on how to replace MacBook batteries in the near future. However, there are some good tips for the time being from iFixit.

If The Battery is Fine, Then it's Probably Software Related

If booting in safe mode doesn’t work, you can try resetting your device’s NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (parameter random-access memory).

To do this for Intel Macbooks, turn off your Mac or MacBook, then hold down Command + Option + P + R keys. Keep holding the keys down until you hear the startup sound twice. This will cause the device to reset its NVRAM or PRAM, which can help resolve some software issues.

Note: For M1 MacBooks, the system checks the NVRAM upon boot. All you need to do is shut your MacBook down completely, wait about a minute, then boot it back up. We presume the M2 MacBook NVRAM reset is achieved the same way. However, we still need to do further research.

The Last Resort... Take It In

If none of these solutions work, it’s possible that your Mac or MacBook has a hardware issue. In this case, it’s best to take it to an Apple Store, Apple Genius Bar, or authorized repair center for further diagnosis and repair.

In conclusion, if your Mac or MacBook won’t turn on, there are several things you can try to fix the problem. These include checking the power outlet, trying to boot in safe mode, resetting NVRAM or PRAM, booting from an external drive, or taking it to an Apple Store or authorized repair center. Remember, don’t panic and try to troubleshoot step by step.

The post Mac Won’t Turn On? Easy Fixes Here first appeared on Macally Blog.

Valentine’s Day Workspace Upgrade: Embrace It

David Chen — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 20:25:40 +0000

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and while some of us may have a special someone to celebrate with, others may be flying solo this year. But just because you’re single doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to something special on Valentine’s Day. In fact, now is the perfect time to upgrade your workspace and show yourself some love.

A cluttered and uninspiring workspace can not only affect your productivity but also your mood. So, why not take this opportunity to create a workspace that not only enhances your productivity but also makes you feel good. Here are a few ideas to help you get started:

Declutter and Organize Your Workspace

Take the time to clear out any unnecessary items and organize the things you do need. This will not only create a more visually appealing space but also make it easier for you to find things when you need them.

Add Some Plants / Greenery

Bring some life into your workspace by adding a few plants. Not only do plants help to purify the air, but they also add a touch of nature to your space, which can help to reduce stress and improve your mood.

Incorporate Personal Touches

Adding personal touches such as photos, artwork, or other decorative items can make your workspace feel more like your own. These personal touches can also serve as a reminder of the things you love and can help to keep you motivated throughout the day.

Upgrade Your Tech... It's Time.

Whether it’s a new computer, monitor, or peripherals, upgrading your technology can not only improve your productivity but also make your work more enjoyable. For example, a new monitor with a higher resolution can make it easier on your eyes, while a new keyboard can make typing more comfortable. If you don’t want to blow crazy money, check out this gift guide that provides budget-friendly alternatives.

Just Celebrate You.

In conclusion, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show yourself some love by upgrading your workspace. By decluttering and organizing your space, adding some greenery, incorporating personal touches, upgrading your technology, investing in a comfortable chair, and creating a cozy atmosphere, you can create a workspace that not only enhances your productivity but also makes you feel good.

The post Valentine’s Day Workspace Upgrade: Embrace It first appeared on Macally Blog.

Valentine’s Day Work-Life Hacks

David Chen — Sat, 04 Feb 2023 00:41:43 +0000

Valentine’s Day is a special day for couples to celebrate their love and affection for one another. But for many people, the holiday can be marred by the pressures of work. Whether it’s a big project deadline, a demanding boss, or just the general stress of the workday, it can be hard to fully enjoy the holiday when you’re thinking about work. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some strategies for managing your work and personal life so that you can enjoy Valentine’s Day to the fullest.

Set Boundaries For Work

One of the most important things you can do to manage your work and personal life is to set clear boundaries. This means deciding when you will and will not be available for work-related tasks, and communicating those boundaries to your colleagues and boss. For example, if you have plans for Valentine’s Day evening, make sure to let your boss know that you will not be available after a certain time.

Organize and Prioritize Tasks For Everything

Another key strategy for managing your work and personal life is to prioritize your tasks. This means focusing on the most important tasks first and leaving less important tasks for later. By doing this, you can ensure that you are making progress on the most important things, while still having time for your personal life. Everyone has their own system that works. People get really technical on this. However, there’s nothing wrong with good old-fashioned post-it notes.

Schedule Your Life and Work, Realistically!

It can be helpful to set a schedule for your workday. This will help you stay focused and productive, while also ensuring that you have enough time for your personal life. For example, you could set aside a specific time each day for work-related tasks, and another specific time each day for your personal life.

Don't Forget To Take A Break

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to take a break. This could be as simple as going for a walk, or taking a few minutes to relax and regroup. Taking a break can help you clear your head and come back to your work with renewed energy and focus.

Be Open and Communicate!

Finally, it’s important to communicate with your partner about your work schedule and priorities. This will help you both understand each other’s needs and come up with a plan that works for both of you. For example, you could plan a special Valentine’s Day celebration on a different day if your work schedule is too hectic.

Valentine’s Day is a special day that should be enjoyed with your loved one. By setting boundaries, prioritizing your tasks, setting a schedule, taking a break, and communicating with your partner, you can manage your work and personal life and not let work ruin your Valentine’s Day. Good luck!

The post Valentine’s Day Work-Life Hacks first appeared on Macally Blog.

Mac Keyboard Shortcuts: Mouse-Free Use

David Chen — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 23:27:33 +0000

Navigating your Mac without a mouse can seem like a daunting task, but with the help of keyboard shortcuts, it can be a breeze. Keyboard shortcuts are a quick and efficient way to navigate your computer, and they can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. Here’s a guide on how to use keyboard shortcuts to navigate your Mac without a mouse.

Basic Mac Navigation and Shortcuts

The first step in navigating your Mac without a mouse, you’ll need to become familiar with basic keyboard shortcuts. The most important ones to know are the arrow keys (up, down, left, and right), the Tab key, and the Enter key. You can use these keys to move around your Mac and select items.

Leveraging Mac Finder shortcuts

The Finder is the default file manager on your Mac, and it’s essential to know how to navigate it using keyboard shortcuts. To open a new Finder window, press Command + N. To open a new folder, press Command + Shift + N. To switch between open Finder windows, press Command + `.

Relying On Mac Spotlight Shortcuts

Spotlight is a powerful search tool on your Mac that can be used to find anything on your computer. To open Spotlight, press Command + Space. Once Spotlight is open, you can use the arrow keys to navigate through the results and press Enter to open the selected item.

Using MacOS Dock (No Mouse)

The Dock is the bar of icons that sits at the bottom of your screen and gives you quick access to your most frequently used apps. To open an app from the Dock, press Command + the number that corresponds to its position on the Dock.

System Shortcuts To Log Out & More

To access basic system functions on your Mac, you’ll need to know a few keyboard shortcuts. To log out of your account, press Command + Shift + Q. To put your Mac to sleep, press Command + Option + Power. To restart your Mac, press Command + Control + Power.

Learning Mac Shortcuts Takes Time

By becoming familiar with these keyboard shortcuts, you’ll be able to navigate your Mac without a mouse quickly and efficiently. However, be patient with yourself, as this process has a long steep learning curve. Remember, you can always check the shortcut list by going to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts. And don’t be afraid to create your own shortcuts for your frequently used actions (see this post how) or this post for a list of shortcuts commonly used.

In conclusion, using keyboard shortcuts can make navigating your Mac without a mouse a lot easier. Whether you’re a power user or just looking to save time, keyboard shortcuts are a great way to increase your productivity and make your computer experience more enjoyable.

The post Mac Keyboard Shortcuts: Mouse-Free Use first appeared on Macally Blog.

Customize Mac Keyboard: Boost Productivity

David Chen — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 03:06:53 +0000

Better Mac Typing Productivity

Customizing your keyboard layout on a Mac can be a useful way to make your typing experience more efficient and comfortable. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to customize your keyboard layout on a Mac:

Adding A New Keyboard Layout To Customize Keyboard Mac

Go to the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
Click on “Keyboard” to open the Keyboard preferences.
Select the “Input Sources” tab.
Click on the “+” button to add a new keyboard layout.
Select the layout you want to add from the list. You can choose from a variety of international keyboard layouts, or you can even create your own custom layout.

6. Once you’ve added your desired layout, you can switch between them by clicking on the flag icon in the menu bar or by using the keyboard shortcut “Control + Space.”

Setting up Keyboard Layouts For Each App For Specific Mac Keyboard Shortcuts

Go to the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
Click on “Keyboard” to open the Keyboard preferences.
Select the “Shortcuts” tab.
Select “Input Sources” from the left sidebar.
Here you can add a custom shortcut to switch between input sources.

Mac keyboard Customization ( Physical Layout)

Go to the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
Click on “Keyboard” to open the Keyboard preferences.
Select the “Keyboard” tab.
Here, you can adjust the keyboard brightness, enable or disable the built-in trackpad and adjust the keyboard repeat rate.

Ready To Customize Your Mac Keyboard Layout

By customizing your keyboard layout, you can make typing on your Mac more efficient and comfortable. Whether you’re looking to switch to a different layout or make small adjustments to your current one, these steps will help you customize your keyboard to better suit your needs, which will increase your productivity. If you are curious about a list of all essential mac shortcuts, check out this post.

The post Customize Mac Keyboard: Boost Productivity first appeared on Macally Blog.

Work from Home Essentials: Top Picks

David Chen — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 19:14:49 +0000

A Comfortable Remote Work Setup

Working remotely has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more companies are embracing the benefits of remote work. However, working from home can also come with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to creating a comfortable and efficient mobile workstation. Below is a breakdown of absolute essentials to make your work-from-home experience more enjoyable.

No, A Rock Is Not A Chair

One of the most important things to consider when working remotely is having a comfortable and ergonomic chair or at least something similar to a chair. Sitting in a chair that is not designed for prolonged use can lead to back pain and other health problems. Look for a chair that is adjustable, has good lumbar support, and promotes good posture. Here are a couple of options to help alleviate pain when working remotely:

The Right Laptop For Your Needs

Another essential product for a comfortable and efficient mobile workstation is a good-quality laptop for on-the-go. And, we’re sorry if you were looking for a Windows Laptop.. But, I hate to break it to ya, we’re Apple biased…

It is important to have a device that is powerful enough to handle your work tasks and has a long battery life for on-the-go use. Consider investing in a laptop that has a high-resolution display, fast processing speeds, and a large amount of storage (like the MacBook Pro M2 or MacBook Air M1 (if you want to save some dough).

MacBook Pro M2 16" & 14"

The new 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro comes with M2 Pro and M2 Max, which are Apple's latest pro silicon chips. These chips offer even more efficient performance and longer battery life for professional users. The M2 Pro and M2 Max are the most powerful and efficient chips for a pro laptop, making the MacBook Pro capable of handling difficult tasks such as effects rendering (6x faster than the fastest Intel-based MacBook Pro) and color grading (2x faster).

Noise Cancelling Headphones

Whether it’s the dog or kids screaming from the top of their lungs, or the noise in the cafe is just too damn high – a good pair of headphones will be a lifesaver (when working remotely). More specifically, noise-canceling headphones help block out background noise, making it easier to focus on your work. They also provide a more immersive listening experience when you’re on a call or video conference.

More Essentials To Come

In conclusion, working remotely can be a great way to increase productivity and work-life balance, but it is important to create a comfortable and efficient mobile workstation. Investing in a good-quality chair, laptop, and headphones can make a big difference in your remote work experience. Obviously, there are so many amazing products for working remotely. However, for this post we’d thought we stick to the absolute essentials – so expect a part 2.

The post Work from Home Essentials: Top Picks first appeared on Macally Blog.

How to Use Universal Control On A Mac With iPad

David Chen — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 21:47:01 +0000

What is Universal Control

Universal Control is a feature that allows you to control multiple Macs and iPads with one keyboard and mouse. This can be a useful tool for increasing productivity, as it allows you to easily switch between multiple devices without having to constantly switch input devices. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to set up and use Universal Control with a Mac and iPad.

The Benefits of Using Universal Control

Once these steps are done, you can move your cursor from your Mac to your iPad, and back, by moving it to the edge of your Mac’s screen. You can also move your cursor from your iPad to your Mac by swiping up with four fingers on your iPad’s screen. Additionally, you can use the keyboard and mouse connected to your Mac to control your iPad, and the touch screen of your iPad as a touchpad for your Mac

Additionally, you can use the keyboard and mouse connected to your Mac to control your iPad, and the touch screen of your iPad as a touchpad for your Mac. With this feature, you can easily switch between devices and use them together, making it easy to copy and paste text or move files between them. This can be especially useful when you’re working on a project that requires multiple devices, or if you just want to use your iPad as an additional monitor for your Mac. Before learning how to turn on Universal Control, be sure to check if your device meets the system requirements.

System Requirements For Universal Control:

macOS Monterey	12.4 or later
MacBook (2016 or later)
MacBook Pro (2016 or later)
MacBook Air (2018 or later)
Mac mini (2018 or later)
iMac (2017 or later), or iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)
iMac Pro
Mac Pro (2019 or later)
Mac Studio
iPadOS	15.4 or later
iPad Pro (all models)
iPad (6th generation) or later
iPad Air (3rd generation) or later
iPad mini (5th generation) or later

How To Turn On Universal Control

First, make sure that your Mac and iPad are on the same Wi-Fi network and that they are both running the latest version of macOS and iPadOS (must be Ventura or later).

Next, on Your Mac Follow These Steps:

Go to Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences).
Click Displays.
Go to the “Advanced” button at the bottom.
Enable “Allow your pointer and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad.”

Next, on Your iPad (compatible with Universal Control) Follow These Steps:

Tap the “Settings” app.
Go to “General”
Tap AirPlay & Handoff.
Then tap “Cursor” and “Keyboard.”

Connecting Your iPad and MacBook with Universal Control

Once you have turned on Universal Control you can now link your Mac device and iPad via the following steps:

Place devices close to each other and ensure they are on and unlocked
Move cursor past the edge of the screen towards the other device, even if it is below the screen.
Push cursor all the way through to the other device to connect.

In conclusion, Universal Control is a powerful feature that allows you to control multiple Macs and iPads with one keyboard and mouse. By following these simple steps, you can easily set up and use Universal Control to increase your productivity and make it easier to switch between devices. As it utilizes the Airplay functionality, it can be a great way to optimize the use of your Mac and iPad at the same time.

The post How to Use Universal Control On A Mac With iPad first appeared on Macally Blog.

Troubleshooting Common Keyboard Issues On A Mac

David Chen — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 09:14:46 +0000

Quick Fixes For Your Keyboard

Keyboard issues can be frustrating, but fortunately, there are often simple solutions that can fix the problem. Here are some common keyboard issues on Mac computers and how to troubleshoot them:

Keyboard Is Connected But Still Not Working

If certain keys on your keyboard are not working, it could be due to a hardware issue or a software problem. To troubleshoot, try the following:

Check the keyboard settings in the System Preferences to make sure the keys are not disabled or remapped via the shortcuts tab.

Keys Are Sticking

If a key gets stuck or is slow to return to its original position, it could be due to debris or a stuck spring mechanism. To fix this issue, try the following:

Gently clean the key and the keyboard with a soft, dry cloth.
If the issue persists, you may need to remove the key to access the spring mechanism. Use a small tool, such as a toothpick or a needle, to carefully lift the key and clean underneath it.

Keyboard is Lagging or Not Connected

If you notice a delay between when you press a key and when it appears on the screen, it could be due to a number of factors, including Bluetooth not being paired or available or a software problem.

Make sure the keyboard is properly connected to the computer. If it’s a Bluetooth keyboard, ensure it is turned on and paired with the computer. Click, here, to see how to pair your keyboard via Bluetooth. Or see this post if your Bluetooth is not available.
Check for updates to the operating system or any installed software that may be causing the issue, which can be found in system settings under “Software Update.”

For Additional Troubeshooting Or Tips

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Bluetooth Not Available Mac

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The post Troubleshooting Common Keyboard Issues On A Mac first appeared on Macally Blog.

How To Customize Your Mac keyboard and Remap Keys

David Chen — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 08:06:42 +0000

Why Customize?

By customizing your Mac keyboard, you can make your keyboard work better for you and increase your productivity. Whether you want to change keyboard shortcuts, remap keys, or add special characters, there are a number of options available to help you get the most out of your keyboard. Without further ado, here are some tips for customizing your Mac keyboard:

How To Change keyboard shortcuts:

Keyboard shortcuts can help you perform common tasks more quickly and efficiently. To change or create your own keyboard shortcuts, go to the “Keyboard” tab in the “System Preferences” and click on the “Shortcuts” tab. From here, you can customize the shortcuts for a variety of actions, such as opening apps, performing menu commands, or controlling the system. You can also create your own custom shortcuts by clicking on the “+” button.

Remap Keys with Third-Party Utilities

If you want to change the function of specific keys on your keyboard, you can use a third-party utility such as “Karabiner-elements.” This utility allows you to customize the key mapping of your keyboard, allowing you to change the function of specific keys or even create your own custom shortcuts. Just keep in mind it’s open-source software, and although free, it might have bugs. Therefore, it’s recommended to proceed cautiously and ensure you are well-rounded with the MacOS operating system.

Additional Shortcuts

The Mac keyboard includes a number of special characters and symbols that you can access by holding down certain keys. Please note, you don’t have to map or customize anything. However, you memorize the shortcut key pairing. To see the top shortcuts used check out this post.

The post How To Customize Your Mac keyboard and Remap Keys first appeared on Macally Blog.