The Mac Pro is a heavy machine so ensure that you use caution when removing it from the box.  If you cannot lift it yourself get some help. Start off by gently unpacking and removing your new Mac Pro from the box.  Carefully lift the Mac Pro by the two handles on the top.  Ensure that you do not place it upside down (handles should be on the top) and place the Mac Pro on a stable surface such as a computer table or on the floor.

Gently remove any plastic or protective packaging from the exterior of the Mac Pro.  Do the same for anything packed on the inside of the side panel.  To remove the side panel you will need to lift a latch on the back of the Mac Pro.  Carefully pull off the side panel by pulling on the top and lift it off the system.  Remove any plastic from the cords as well.

Verify that the box contains everything as described in the "What's in the Box" on the box label.  If anything is missing or your computer is damaged, contact Apple support.

Positioning is Critical
The Mac Pro should be placed in a location where is has an adequate air supply to allow airflow to easily pass in front and behind the air vents.  It is not recommended to place the Mac Pro in an enclosed location.  Also ensure that there is enough space in front of the Mac Pro to allow the optical drive(s) to operate without obstruction.

Plug it in
Plug in the power cord to the power port on the back of the Mac Pro.  Plug the other end into a functional electrical outlet.  (We recommend that you use a surge protector for your Mac and any peripherals connected to your Mac.  The cost of a surge protector is a small price to pay in the unfortunate event of a power surge.  You just spent some serious money on the Mac Pro, a surge protector is a must!)

Connect a Display
Your Mac Pro is capable of supporting multiple displays but you'll need to connect at least one display to your Mac Pro.  If you have an Apple Cinema HD display, just connect it to a DVI port on the back of the Mac Pro.  If you are using a display from another manufacturer, review the manufacturer's instructions to ensure a correct connection.

If you are  using a VGA display, first connect the included VGA adapter to the DVI connection on the back of the Mac Pro.  Then connect the VGA display to the exposed end of the adapter.

Connect a Mouse and Keyboard
Connect the mouse to a USB port the keyboard.  Then connect the keyboard to one of the USB ports on the back of the Mac Pro.  Note that if you purchased an Apple Wireless Keyboard and Apple Wireless Mouse with your Mac Pro, a different procedure will be required as they rely on Bluetooth to communicate with your iMac.  Just follow the instructions that came with them to perform the setup.

Internet Connection
You'll need either a high speed or dial-up connection to access the Internet.  Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to one of the Mac Pro's Ethernet ports.  Connect the other end to either a cable modem, DSL modem, or network device such as a router.  If you have a dial-up connection, you'll need to connect your Mac Pro to a phone line using the optional Apple USB Modem.

Setup Assistant
Your Mac Pro will be booted for the first time since leaving the factory.  The Mac OS X Setup Assistant will start and will guide you through a series you of screens to setup your Mac Pro.  Review the Mac OS X Setup Assistant Guide for details.

Start Using Your Mac Pro
That's it.  The initial steps to setup your Mac Pro are now complete.  We recommend that you take some time to perform some additional steps prior to using your Mac.  A key step is to update your Mac Pro with any available software updates.

Updates

• February 26, 2009 - content modification