Intel-based Macs: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)

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The System Management Controller (SMC) is responsible for many low-level functions on Intel-based Macs. These functions include: Responding to presses of the power button Responding to display lid opening and closing on portable Macs Battery management Thermal management The SMS (Sudden Motion Sensor) Ambient light sensing Keyboard backlighting Status Indicator Light (SIL) management Battery status indicator lights Selecting an external (instead of internal) video source for some iMac displays It is possible that the SMC could encounter a problem that may cause unusual system behavior typically related to the symptoms described below. In some cases, resetting the SMC may be the only correct method to resolve the issue, however, an SMC reset should only be attempted after all other standard troubleshooting has been performed.

About Performance Update 1.0

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This update addresses intermittent hard drive related pauses reported by a small number of customers. Learn how to apply the Performance Update 1.0 to an Intel-based Macintosh computer.

Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard: How to Erase and Install

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Use this procedure to restore to the factory settings and the software that originally came with your computer by using the DVDs that shipped with it.  Refer to How to 'Erase and Install' on MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and Mac Pro computers (Late 2008 and later) for Mac OS X v10.5 Leopard instructions. Important: If you have a MacBook Air, you must have a MacBook Air SuperDrive to complete this procedure.

MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2009), Boot Camp: Install Boot Camp 3.1 or later to resolve wireless networking issues in Windows 7

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When using a MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2009) with Microsoft Windows 7 via Boot Camp, your MacBook Pro might not be able to use a wireless network when running Windows 7.

Mac OS X v10.6: Gray progress bar appears under Apple logo during startup

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A gray progress bar may appear below the Apple logo each time the computer starts up. The bar may remain a few minutes before the Finder or login window appear.  Learn what to do if this happens each time you start up the computer. If this happens each time your Mac starts up, it probably indicates Mac OS X v10.6 is attempting to diagnose and resolve an issue with your hard disk or the data on it.

How to disinfect the Apple internal or external keyboard, trackpad, and mouse

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In addition to regular cleaning of your computer and input devices (keyboards, trackpads, and mice), you may find it necessary to disinfect them. When a single computer is being used by multiple people either in a home, school, or another setting you may wish to disinfect the parts of the computer that people come into contact with, such as the the keyboard, mouse, or trackpad.

Hard drive data recovery and warranty implications

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Hard drives that have become non-functional through normal use, and have had data recovery performed on them by DriveSavers or Ontrack Data Recovery can be returned to Apple for warranty service. This includes products covered by the AppleCare Protection Plan. The cost of any data recovery attempts is not covered by the Apple Limited Warranty. Apple will process warranty service for hard drives originally installed in Apple products that have been subject to data recovery services by DriveSavers or Ontrack Data Recovery, third-party companies specializing in data recovery services. Apple has worked with both of these companies to ensure that their data recovery methods meet Apple's standards, and will fulfill its warranty obligations if the returned drive has a DriveSavers or Ontrack Data Recovery label indicating that the respective company worked with the drive for data recovery purposes. Typically, if the factory seal on the hard drive is broken or removed, the hard drive will be excluded from coverage, however, if an authorized DriveSavers or Ontrack Data Recovery label is on such a hard drive, Apple will not exclude coverage on that basis.

Apple Computers: Powering a peripheral through USB

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USB based peripherals come in a wide variety; many have unique power requirements. Learn more about the power available via USB on Apple computers and how to use peripherals that may require more power than is available through the USB port.