Streamline Your MacBook’s Power Management with a Bash Script

Managing power settings on a MacBook can often feel cumbersome, especially for those who frequently switch between power sources. Recognizing the need for a more efficient method, I developed a Bash script to simplify the process, enabling quick toggling between “Normal” and “Never Sleep” modes depending on your current needs.

This script leverages the pmset command, a robust macOS tool for adjusting power settings. With it, you can effortlessly switch power schemes—saving time and avoiding manual adjustments through System Preferences.

One caveat is the necessity for administrative rights to execute the script, as it modifies system-wide settings. Thus, running it with sudo is essential for applying the changes successfully.

Despite this requirement, the script offers a convenient solution for managing your MacBook’s energy use, proving invaluable in various scenarios, such as prolonged work sessions or when ensuring uninterrupted downloads.

I’ve found this script to significantly enhance my workflow, offering a blend of convenience and flexibility previously unattainable with default power management options. I highly recommend trying it to see the difference it can make. Feedback and suggestions are always welcome for further refinements!

Here’s the script for those interested:

#!/bin/bash

###########################
# MacBook Power Management Script
#
# Simplifies toggling between power settings.
#
# Usage:
#   sudo bash script-name.sh
#
###########################

echo "Power Management Options"
echo "1. Normal"
echo "2. Never"
echo "3. Quit"
echo -n "Select an option: "
read option

case $option in
    1) 
        # Normal settings
        pmset -b displaysleep 2 # Battery: Display off after 2 mins
        pmset -c displaysleep 10 # Charger: Display off after 10 mins
        pmset -a sleep 20 # Both: Sleep after 20 mins
        ;;
    2) 
        # Never settings
        pmset -a displaysleep 0 # Display never sleeps
        pmset -a sleep 0 # System never sleeps
        ;;
    3) 
        # Quit
        exit
        ;;
    *)
        echo "Invalid option"
        ;;
esac

 

My Experience With the MacBook Air M2 and the Magic of the Apple Ecosystem

Just a few weeks ago, I took the leap and invested in the new MacBook Air M2, and since then, I’ve been in a whirl of excitement exploring its features, functionalities, and, most importantly, how it fits into my existing collection of Apple devices.

Why I Chose the MacBook Air M2

Before purchasing, I researched extensively, comparing the MacBook Air M2 to other laptops in its range and even other Mac models. However, it was the combination of its lightweight design, the promise of powerful performance thanks to the M2 chip, and the compatibility with the Apple ecosystem that finally tipped the scales for me.

Now that I’ve had a chance to use it, I can confirm that it didn’t disappoint.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Unboxing a new gadget, especially an Apple product, is an experience in itself. The MacBook Air M2, with its sleek design and the inviting glow of the Apple logo, was a sight to behold. I could feel the power and possibilities waiting for me.

The laptop booted up quickly, the Retina Display living up to its promise of delivering vibrant colors, and the backlit Magic Keyboard was as comfortable as I had heard. But the best was yet to come.

Discovering the Magic of the Apple Ecosystem

What truly struck me about my new MacBook Air M2 was how seamlessly it integrated into my existing lineup of Apple devices. As a long-time user of Apple products, including an iPhone and iPad, I knew about the Apple ecosystem’s interconnectivity. However, experiencing it firsthand on a new device took my appreciation to a whole new level.

Continuity: A Seamless Experience

With Continuity, I could effortlessly switch between devices without interrupting my workflow. It was as if all my devices had synchronized into a single entity. A document started on my iPhone could be continued on my MacBook Air, and then finalized on my iPad, all without the need for manual transfers or saving multiple versions.

AirDrop: Simplifying File Transfers

Remember the days when transferring files between devices was a time-consuming process involving cables, Bluetooth pairing, or even email? With AirDrop, those days are firmly behind me. Sharing files, be it documents, images, or videos, between my Apple devices has become a matter of a few clicks.

Cloud: My Personal and Secure Cloud Storage

The cherry on top of my Apple ecosystem experience is iCloud. With iCloud, all my files, photos, and documents are synced across my devices, ensuring they’re up-to-date and accessible anytime, anywhere.

The Verdict

The MacBook Air M2 has proven to be more than just a laptop. It’s a key component of a connected, streamlined digital lifestyle, backed by the power of the Apple ecosystem. It has not only lived up to my expectations but, in many ways, exceeded them.

If you, like me, value seamless integration and synchronization across devices, and you’re considering investing in a new laptop, I highly recommend the MacBook Air M2. It’s a decision I’m glad I made, and I believe you will be, too.

Stay tuned for more updates as I continue my journey with the MacBook Air M2 and the Apple ecosystem. There’s still so much to explore, and I can’t wait to share more insights with you.