MacOS – Pair Apple remote and MacBook Pro

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I am unable to pair my Apple Remote, which otherwise works perfectly, with my MacBook Pro.

My Mac responds to all the commands but the pairing one (I hold menu and next for about five seconds, but nothing happens).

How can I get my Mac and my remote paired?

I am running Mountain Lion, but I don't know if it is relevant to my issue.

I even tried the digital camera test and, when I press the two keys together, after some seconds in which no signal is sent I can see a blinking light.
Is that ok? Or should I be able to see the blinking light right immediately when I press the two buttons?

Best Answer

I would try two things:

First, make sure the battery in the remote is good. I know this may sound obvious, but I always try to make sure there are no issues with power or connectivity.

Second, go into System Preferences-->Security & Privacy, and click the lock at the bottom to unlock the "Advanced..." button.

Make sure the last checkbox ("Disable remote control infrared receiver") is unchecked. Then click the pair button.

It will ask you to do the same procedure as before (holding menu and next buttons until you see the paired-remote graphic on the screen). I know you already tried holding the buttons, but maybe you'll have better luck at the pairing prompt.

Hope this helps. Best of luck and happy holidays!