When I Close Lid Do Nothing Mac

When I Close My MacBook Lid, Do Nothing: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you tired of your MacBook going to sleep or shutting down every time you close the lid? Many users find this default behavior inconvenient, especially when using external displays or needing to continue background tasks while the laptop is closed. This article will guide you through several methods to change this behavior, ensuring your MacBook continues running even with the lid closed. We'll explore different approaches, covering various macOS versions and scenarios.

Understanding Your MacBook's Power Management

Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand how macOS manages power when the lid is closed. By default, closing the lid triggers a sleep or shutdown to conserve battery life. However, this behavior can be customized to suit individual needs and workflows. We'll cover several techniques to override this default setting.

Methods to Prevent Your Mac from Sleeping When the Lid is Closed

Here are several proven techniques to keep your Mac running even with the lid closed. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and technical comfort level.

1. Using System Preferences (Simplest Method):

This is the easiest method and often works for most users. Unfortunately, this only works partially. The Mac will still sleep after a period of inactivity. This method is great for short-term use.

• Step 1: Open System Preferences.
• Step 2: Click on Battery.
• Step 3: In the Power Adapter tab, find "Put hard disks to sleep when possible" and uncheck it.

This prevents your hard drive from going to sleep while on battery and plugged in.

2. Using Terminal Commands (Advanced Method):

For more precise control, the Terminal offers powerful commands. This method requires some command-line familiarity. Use caution when executing terminal commands.

• Open Terminal: Locate and open the Terminal application (Applications > Utilities > Terminal).
• Execute the Command: Paste the following command and press Enter: sudo pmset -a lidwake 1

This command enables lid wake. You'll need to enter your administrator password. To reverse this, use sudo pmset -a lidwake 0.

3. Using Third-Party Apps (For More Complex Scenarios):

While not necessary for basic lid-closed functionality, some applications provide more advanced power management options and may offer features beyond the built-in macOS settings. These are often commercial products, so some research might be needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even after implementing these methods, you might encounter some problems.

• Overheating: Running your MacBook with the lid closed can lead to overheating. Ensure adequate ventilation, and monitor your CPU temperatures. Consider using a cooling pad.
• Accidental Key Presses: With the lid closed, accidental key presses might occur. Consider disabling the keyboard or using an external keyboard.
• Battery Drain: Running your MacBook with the lid closed will significantly increase battery drain, especially if you're performing demanding tasks. Ensure it's plugged in.

Conclusion

Preventing your MacBook from sleeping when the lid is closed is achievable through various methods. Whether you choose the straightforward System Preferences approach or the more advanced Terminal commands, finding the right solution depends on your technical proficiency and specific needs. Remember to consider potential issues like overheating and battery life before implementing these changes. By following the steps outlined above, you can customize your MacBook's power management to perfectly suit your workflow. Remember always to be mindful of potential overheating issues and to prioritize safe usage practices.