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PowerBlock for Mac

Run an AppleScript when the power button is pressed.

Free
In English
5.0
Based on 4 user rates

PowerBlock overview

PowerBlock intercepts presses of the power button and optionally runs an AppleScript. This is handy on the MacBook Air where the power button is now a key on the keyboard and can be accidentally pressed.

By running an AppleScript when the power button is pressed, you can setup your system to immediately shutdown, restart, sleep, or eject a DVD. This is great for headless servers.

Known Limitations: PowerBlock does NOT prevent a hard shutdown if you hold the power button for more than 4 seconds.

What’s new in version 1.2

Version 1.2:

Powerblock is not compatible with OS X 10.9 due to changes in the power system.

  • IMPROVED: Added more examples to the AppleScript.
  • IMPROVED: Inform user when there's an error in the AppleScript.
  • IMPROVED: Hide the splash screen by checking "Hide" in System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items.
  • IMPROVED: 1024x1024 application icon.
  • FIXED: Start at Login wasn't always working.

View older PowerBlock versions

PowerBlock for Mac

Free
In English
Version 1.2
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5.0

(3 Reviews of PowerBlock)

  • Comments

  • User Ratings

hwgray
hwgray
Aug 5 2013
1.2
5.0
Aug 5 2013
5.0
Version: 1.2
"Known Limitations: PowerBlock does NOT prevent a hard shutdown, if you hold the power button for more than 4 seconds." The developer makes this sound like a bug. It looks like a feature, to me! Sometimes, you *want* to be able to do a hard shutdown. What would be the point of blocking that? He should say, IMO, "Special Feature: ..."
Grrr
Grrr
Dec 23 2012
1.1
5.0
Dec 23 2012
5.0
Version: 1.1
Didn't use the Script, just left the app running. Love this app, does just what I need.
retani
retani
Dec 20 2012
1.1
5.0
Dec 20 2012
5.0
Version: 1.1
This nifty little program does exactly what it is supposed to do. By using Apple Script, it enables you to trigger any action you intend when the power button is pressed, including more complex ones. This makes it useful for professionals, too. I used it on a Mac Mini in a museum installation so it can easily be switched on and off by the staff using just the power button. Minimal understanding of Apple Script is required (thus ease of use 4 of 5).
hwgray
hwgray
Aug 5 2013
5.0
Aug 5 2013
5.0
Version: null
Grrr
Grrr
Dec 23 2012
5.0
Dec 23 2012
5.0
Version: null
retani
retani
Dec 20 2012
5.0
Dec 20 2012
5.0
Version: null
Irradiated-Software
Irradiated-Software
Dec 4 2012
5.0
Dec 4 2012
5.0
Version: null