Page 1
Apple Technician Guide
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009)
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009)
MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010)
Updated 2010-06-15
Page 2
Apple Inc.
© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Under the copyright laws, this document may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the
written consent of Apple.
Every eort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate. Apple
is not responsible for printing or clerical errors.
Apple
1 Innite Loop
Cupertino, CA 95014-2084
USA
+ 1 408 996 1010
www.apple.com
Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, MacBook, and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in
the U.S. and other countries.
Page 3
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009)
Contents
Updates 7
Updated 15 June 2010 7
Updated 18 May 2010 7
Updated 09 April 2010 7
Updated 01 April 2010 7
Updated 18 February 2010 8
Updated 15 January 2010 8
Updated 8 January 2010 9
Updated 2 December 2009 9
Updated 5 November 2009 9
Updated 27 October 2009 9
Apple Technician Guide introduced 20 October 2009 10
Feedback 10
Basics
Overview 12
Safety: Battery Precautions 13
Serial Number Location 14
Transferring the Serial Number 15
Note About Images In This Guide 15
Caution About Ordering Replacement Parts 15
Troubleshooting
General Troubleshooting 17
Update System Software 17
Troubleshooting Theory 17
Hardware vs. Software 17
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009): Functional Overview 18
MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010): Functional Overview 19
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009): Block Diagram 20
MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010): Block Diagram 21
Liquid Contact Indicators 22
Common Reset Procedures 23
Apple Service Diagnostics 24
Clamshell Service Diagnostic Read Me 25
Page 4
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies 25
Symptom Charts 27
Startup and Power Issues 27
No Power 27
Intermittent Shutdown 33
No Video/Bad Video 38
Battery Isn’t Recognized or Won’t Charge 41
Kernel Panic/System Crashes 43
Battery Run Time Too Short 45
Won’t Run on Power Adapter 46
Noise / Hum / Vibration 47
Battery Leaking or Swollen 50
Uncategorized Symptom 50
Communications 51
Ethernet Port/Device Issue 51
AirPort/Bluetooth: Defective Wireless Devices 53
No/Poor Wireless Signal 55
Wireless Input Device Loses Connection 56
Wireless Performance Issue / Slow Connection 59
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair 61
Uncategorized Symptom 63
Display 64
Display Anomalies 64
Defective Camera / Built-in iSight Not Operating Correctly 69
Blank / No Video 70
Backlight Issue / No Backlight 71
Noise / Unstable Flickering 72
Mechanical/Physical Damage 74
Cosmetic Defects 74
Uncategorized Symptom 74
Mass Storage 75
Hard Drive Read/Write Issue 75
Hard Drive Not Recognized/Not Mounting 76
Hard Drive Noisy 78
Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Reject Media 79
Optical Drive Not Recognized/Device Not Mounting 83
Optical Drive Noisy 84
Optical Drive Not Performing to Specs 86
Uncategorized Symptom 87
Input/Output Devices 88
USB Port Does Not Recognize Known Input Devices 88
Built-in Keyboard Does Not Work Properly 89
Specic Keys Don’t Work 90
Built-in Keyboard Is Not Recognized 90
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Track Properly 92
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Built-in Trackpad Does Not Work 93
Built-in Speaker Has No Audio 95
Distorted Sound from Internal Speaker 96
Uncategorized Symptom 98
Mechanical Issues: Thermals and Enclosure 99
Reset/Power Button Stuck 99
System Runs Hot 100
Uncategorized Symptom 102
Take Apart
General Information 104
Connector Types on Logic Board 104
Tools 107
Icon Legend 108
Temperature Concerns 109
Replacement Steps 109
Note About Images In This Guide 109
Screw Sizes 109
Bottom Case 110
Top Case Snaps 115
Battery 117
Removal 118
Replacement 119
Trackpad 121
Removal 122
Replacement 123
Hard Drive Bracket 126
Hard Drive 128
Removal 129
Replacement 131
Hard Drive Connector Cable 133
Hard Drive Grommets 134
Memory 136
Removal 137
Replacement 138
Fan 140
AirPort/Bluetooth Flex Cable 143
Rear Vent 145
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Rear Speaker 148
AirPort/Bluetooth Card 152
Optical Drive 154
Optical Drive Flex Cable 158
Logic Board 160
Removal 161
Replacement 163
Heatsink 169
Removal 170
Replacement 172
MagSafe Board 173
Removal 174
Replacement 175
Display Module 176
Removal 177
Replacement 181
Top Case with Keyboard 184
Additional Procedures
Trackpad Grounding Strap 187
Views
Exploded Views 190
Display View 190
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009): Main View (side-by-side serial numbers) 191
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009): Main View (stacked serial numbers) 192
MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010): Main View (stacked serial numbers) 193
External Views 194
Front View 194
Rear View 195
Port View 195
Screw Locations 196
Bottom Case 196
Battery, Rear Vent, Hard Drive Connector Cable 197
Logic Board, Optical Drive, Speaker, Fan, MagSafe Board, Display 198
AirPort/Bluetooth Card and Heatsink 199
Top Case and Trackpad 200
Page 7
Updates
Updated 15 June 2010
Troubleshooting:
• General Troubleshooting: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC): Updated text
to clarify MagSafe LED behavior; deleted text requiring resetting date and time.
Updated 18 May 2010
Basics
• Overview: Added new model: MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010)
Troubleshooting:
• General Information: Tools: Updated Apple Service Diagnostic to 3S136 and Apple Hardware
Test version to 3A181 MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) and to 3A199 for MacBook (13-inch, Mid
2010)
• Functional Overview: Added version for MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010)
• Block Diagram: Added version for MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010)
• Symptom Charts: Startup/Power Issues: No Power deep dive table: Added power-on pads for
MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010) logic board
Take Apart
• Trackpad: Added alternate trackpad kit part number 922-9551
• Fan: Replaced image showing screws
• Optical Drive: Replaced 4.49 mm screw with part number 922-9516
Views:
• Exploded Views: Added Main View for MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010)
• Screw Locations: Replaced optical drive screw part number
Updated 09 April 2010
Take Apart
• Top Case Snaps: Added new procedure showing how to replace the three top case snaps
Updated 01 April 2010
Basics
• Caution About Ordering Replacement Parts: Added reminder to enter product serial number
in GSX before ordering replacement part
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Updates 7
Page 8
Troubleshooting
• Symptom Charts: Input/Output Devices: Revised trackpad steps in Deep Dive to refer to
trackpad grounding strap procedure
• Symptom Charts: Input/Output Devices: Revised speaker steps in Deep Dive to address
right/left speakers on top case
Take Apart:
• Battery: Added alternate part numbers for battery screws
• Trackpad: Added alternate part number for trackpad kit; corrected image for T6 set screw
• Logic Board: Added stacked serial number image; added reminder to enter product serial
number in GSX before ordering replacement part
• Top Case: Added reminder to enter product serial number in GSX before ordering
replacement part
Additional Procedures
• Trackpad Grounding Strap: Added new procedure to check for or install grounding strap
from chassis ground to trackpad; this addresses jumpy cursor movement symptom
Views:
• Exploded Views: Added new notes about the need to refer to GSX for the most accurate
parts list; added second Main View for modied part numbers
• Screw Locations: Added alternate part numbers for battery screws
Updated 18 February 2010
Take Apart:
• General Information: Connector Types on Logic Board: Added LVDS cable image and
replacement caution to check for gold traces
• General Information: Tools: Added torque driver recommendation for 6 display screws
• Bottom Case: Added new Replacement step 4 to align bottom case notches to clutch
• Rear Vent: Added optional torque driver to Tools; revised step 2 screws, including new 4-mm
screw with red locktite and screw ID table; added torque specications
• Logic Board: Added optional headphone jack to Tools; added new Replacement steps 4-6 to
align ports using a headphone jack
• Display Module: Added optional torque driver to Tools; revised Replacement step 1 to
include torque specications
• Top Case with Keyboard: Added replacement note about transferring the trackpad
Views:
• Screw Locations: Added torque specications for 6 display screws
Updated 15 January 2010
Take Apart:
• Battery: Added battery label reminder
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Updates 8
Page 9
Updated 8 January 2010
Troubleshooting:
• General Information: Tools: Updated Apple Service Diagnostic to 3S135
Take Apart:
• Trackpad: Added cautions to avoid bending exures
Updated 2 December 2009
Troubleshooting:
• General Troubleshooting: Added new section “Clamshell Service Diagnostic Read Me”
• Symptom Charts: Startup and Power Issues: Revised for Clamshell Service Diagnostic (CSD)
considerations
• Symptom Charts: Communications: Revised for CSD considerations
• Symptom Charts: Display: Revised for CSD considerations
Updated 5 November 2009
Troubleshooting:
• Symptom Charts: Input/Output Devices: Built-In Trackpad Does Not Work: Revised step 2 and
step 6 of Deep Dive table to check normal trackpad clicking motion
Take Apart:
• Bottom Case: Added image for screwdriver angle
• Rear Speaker: Modied image for step 4 to emphasize recessed screw
• Optical Drive: Modied image for step 1 to emphasize recessed screw
• Logic Board: Replacement: Added reminder to not remove serial number label
Views:
• Screw Locations: Added heatsink screw length
Updated 27 October 2009
Troubleshooting:
• Symptom Charts: Startup and Power Issues: No Video/Bad Video: Added backlight fuse
location to step 9 of Deep Dive table; updated for separate heatsink solution
• Symptom Charts: Display: Backlight Issue/No Backlight: Added backlight fuse location to
step 6 of Deep Dive table
• Symptom Charts: Mechanical Issues: Thermals and Enclosure: Updated for separate heatsink
solution
Take Apart:
• General Information: Tools: Added thermal grease, cleaning wipes, T8 and #1 screwdrivers
• Trackpad: Updated steps based on trackpad kit contents
• Rear Vent: Tools: Changed from T7 to T8 screwdriver
• Optical Drive: Added image to step 2
• Heatsink: Added heatsink procedure
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Updates 9
Page 10
• Logic Board (includes Heatsink): Changed title to “Logic Board;” added heatsink replacement
reminder
• MagSafe Board: Tools: Changed from #00 to T6 screwdriver
Views:
• Exploded Views: Main View: Added heatsink kit 076-1358; revised logic board reference
• Screw Locations: Added heatsink screws
Apple Technician Guide introduced 20 October 2009
Feedback
We want your feedback to help improve this and future Technician Guides!
Please email any comments to smfeedback4@apple.com
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Feedback 10
Page 11
Apple Technician Guide
Basics
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009)
© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Page 12
Overview
2010-06-15
The MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) features a brighter LED-backlit display, a 2.26 GHz Intel Core
2 Duo processor, and the graphics performance of NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics.
Faster DDR3 memory, a larger 250 GB hard drive, and a new Mini DisplayPort round out some of
the performance and feature upgrades.
The MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010) features a 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, NVIDIA GeForce
320M graphics, and a 250 GB hard drive
A longer-lasting, high performance, internal battery is no longer customer replaceable. This
high-density battery can be safely removed only by an authorized Apple service provider.
For full technical specications, refer to AppleCare Tech Specs:
http://support.apple.com/specs/
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Overview 12
Page 13
Safety: Battery Precautions
This computer contains an internal-only battery that is serviceable by Apple-authorized service
providers only. Tamper-proof screws are employed to prevent customers from attempting to
remove it.
WARNING: Every time you remove the bottom case, disconnect the battery cable from the
logic board.
WARNING: Because the battery is internal and connected to the logic board by a cable, it MUST
BE DISCONNECTED before performing service procedures. If you fail to do so, live current from
the battery will short circuit the components and render the logic board and/or LVDS cable
unusable.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Overview 13
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Serial Number Location
Turn over the computer to see the serial number etched on the bottom case front.
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MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Serial Number Location 14
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Transferring the Serial Number
When replacing a bottom case, retain the customer’s bottom case until the repair is complete.
Before installing the replacement bottom case, use a ne tip permanent marker to write the
original serial number clearly and legibly in uppercase box letters directly onto the inside of the
new bottom case.
CAUTION: Take great care in deciphering the small typeface of the etched serial number
on the bottom case. You might need a magnifying glass to see it clearly. It is imperative
that you transfer the correct alphanumeric characters. Keep in mind that Apple serial
numbers always use the numbers 1 and 0 instead of the Roman letters “I” and “O.”
2010-06-15
Note About Images In This Guide
Because a pre-production model was used for most of the images shown in this guide, you may
notice small dierences in appearance between the image pictured and the computer you are
servicing. However, although the appearance may dier, the steps and sequence are the same
unless noted.
Caution About Ordering Replacement Parts
Caution: Some modules have more than one part number due to dierent product
congurations. Before ordering a replacement part, ALWAYS enter the product serial
number in GSX to nd the compatible part.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Serial Number Location 15
Page 16
Apple Technician Guide
Troubleshooting
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009)
© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Page 17
General Troubleshooting
Update System Software
Important: Whenever possible before beginning troubleshooting, ensure the latest software
and rmware updates have been applied.
Troubleshooting Theory
For general information on troubleshooting theory, go to GSX and nd the Service Training
course menu link. From there you can access the Troubleshooting Theory self-paced course.
Hardware vs. Software
For information on how to isolate a hardware issue from a software issue, refer to:
TS1388—Isolating issues in Mac OS X <http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1388>
TS1394—Mac OS X: Troubleshooting installation and software updates <http://support.apple.
com/kb/TS1394>
HT2956—Troubleshooting Mac OS X installation from CD or DVD <http://support.apple.com/
kb/HT2956>
For information on how to troubleshoot a software issue, refer to:
HT1199—Mac OS X: How to troubleshoot a software issue <http://support.apple.com/kb/
HT1199>
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Update System Software 17
Page 18
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009): Functional Overview
Refer to this diagram for symptoms related to logic board connectors. To more easily view this
page, select the Rotate command.
Trackpad/trackpad button/
thermal sensor:
• no cursor movement
• no click action
• runs slow (trackpad thermal
sensor input missing)
Keyboard/power
on button:
• no power on from
keyboard
• nonresponsive keys
Sleep LED:
• no sleep LED status
Right speaker:
• no/distorted treble output
from right top case speaker
Wide-range rear speaker:
• no /bad medium or bass
center sound output
SATA optical drive:
• no SATA optical drive visible
in System Profiler
• no startup from optical drive
antennas:
• no /poor wireless reception
• device(s) not seen in System
Profiler
• no communication with them
• no startup (if shorted cable)
AirPort/Bluetooth
AirPort/Bluetooth:
of power adapter)
• X symbol for battery in menu
bar
hard drive
selected in Sound Input
Preferences)
• not running when on battery
only
• no power on (if incorrect model
• no SATA hard drive
visible in System Profiler
• no startup from internal
• no internal sound
input level (when
internal microphone is
Battery:
Fan:
• intermittent shutdown
• freezes
• noisy fan
Memory:
• no startup
• freeze or kernel panic
• horizontal video lines
MagSafe connector
(under logic board):
• no power on
• no battery charge
SATA harddrive:
Left speaker:
Microphone:
• no/distorted treble
case speaker
output from left top
LCD, but main monitor
on external display
when connected
(sensor stuck)
• no video on internal
• no sleep when display
closed
Sleep sensor:
Connector located on
other side of logic
board:
• no LED on adapter
LCD/backlight/camera:
• no video on internal
LCD
• no backlight
• no camera
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009): Functional Overview 18
Page 19
MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010): Functional Overview
Refer to this diagram for symptoms related to logic board connectors. To more easily view this
page, select the Rotate command.
Trackpad/trackpad button/
thermal sensor:
• no cursor movement
• no click action
• runs slow (trackpad thermal
sensor input missing)
Keyboard/power
on button:
• no power on from
keyboard
• nonresponsive keys
Battery:
• not running when on battery
only
• no power on (if incorrect model
of power adapter)
• X symbol for battery in menu
bar
Sleep LED:
• no sleep LED status
Right speaker:
• no/distorted treble output
from right top case speaker
Wide-range rear speaker:
• no /bad medium or bass
center sound output
SATA optical drive:
• no SATA optical drive visible
in System Profiler
• no startup from optical drive
antennas:
• no /poor wireless reception
• device(s) not seen in System
Profiler
• no communication with them
• no startup (if shorted cable)
AirPort/Bluetooth
AirPort/Bluetooth:
• no startup from internal
hard drive
internal microphone is
selected in Sound Input
Preferences)
SATA harddrive:
• no SATA hard drive
visible in System Profiler
Microphone:
• no internal sound
input level (when
• freeze or kernel panic
• horizontal video lines
case speaker
output from left top
• no startup
Memory:
• no/distorted treble
Fan:
• intermittent shutdown
• freezes
• noisy fan
MagSafe connector
(under logic board):
• no power on
• no battery charge
• no LED on adapter
LCD/backlight/camera:
• no video on internal
LCD
• no backlight
Left speaker:
LCD, but main monitor
on external display
when connected
(sensor stuck)
• no video on internal
• no sleep when display
closed
Sleep sensor:
Connector located on
other side of logic
board:
• no camera
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010): Functional Overview 19
Page 20
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009): Block Diagram
Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009): Block Diagram 20
Page 21
MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010): Block Diagram
Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — MacBook (13-inch, Mid 2010): Block Diagram 21
Page 22
Liquid Contact Indicators
Liquid contact indicators (LCI) have been added to specic locations on current Mac portables
to help determine if systems have been damaged by liquid. The sensors are only visible when
the bottom case and some of the modules have been removed. Normally represented by small
white dots, the LCIs turn red when they have come in contact with liquid, such as an accidental
spill.
For more information, refer to Knowledge Base article HT3400: “About Liquid contact indicators
(LCI) on portable computers.” http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3400
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Liquid Contact Indicators 22
Page 23
Common Reset Procedures
Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)
To reset power management via the SMC chip:
1. If the computer is on, turn it o by choosing Shutdown from the Apple () menu.
2. Connect the power adapter to the computer and to a working power source.
3. Important: Use the keys on the left side of the keyboard. On the built-in keyboard, press
Shift-Control-Option along with the power button once.
Note: When the LED on the MagSafe connector is orange, resetting the SMC will change it
to green for a few seconds, indicating that SMC was correctly reset.
4. Wait 5 seconds and press the power button to restart the computer. Note: If bottom case
is removed, you may alternately reset the SMC by disconnecting the power adapter and the
main battery, and holding the power button down for ve seconds.
For more information:
http://www.apple.com/support
HT1411—Apple Portables: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) <http://
support.apple.com/kb/HT3964>
Resetting the Parameter RAM (PRAM)
To reset PRAM,
1. If the computer is on, turn it o.
2. Locate the following keys on the keyboard: Command, Option, P, and R. You will need to
hold these keys down simultaneously in Step 4.
Note: If the keyboard does not have an Option key, use the Alt key instead.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. Press and hold the Command-Option-P-R keys.
Important: You must press this key combination before the gray screen appears.
5. Hold down keys until the computer restarts, and you hear the startup chime a second time.
6. Release the keys.
For more information:
http://www.apple.com/support
HT1379—Apple Portables: Resetting the PRAM <http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1379>
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Common Reset Procedures 23
Page 24
Starting Up in Safe Mode
A Safe Boot is a special way to start Mac OS X when troubleshooting. To start up into Safe Mode
(Safe Boot):
1. Make sure the computer is shut down.
2. Press the power button.
3. Immediately after you hear the startup tone, press and hold the Shift key.
Note: The Shift key should be held as soon as possible after the startup tone but not
before.
4. Release the Shift key when you see the screen with the gray Apple and progress indicator
(looks like a spinning gear). During startup, ”Safe Boot” appears on the Mac OS X startup
screen. To leave Safe Mode, restart the computer normally, without holding down any keys
during startup.
For more information:
http://www.apple.com/support
HT1564—What is Safe Boot, Safe Mode? <http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564>
TS1884—Safe Boot take longer than normal startup <http://support.apple.com/kb/
TS1884>
Apple Service Diagnostics
Run Apple Service Diagnostics to determine if any of the thermal sensors are malfunctioning.
When sensors fail, replace the corresponding part —logic board, battery, or top case. See chart
below for correlation between error code and part.
Name Location
TC0D Logic board
TC0P Logic board
Th1H Logic board
TN0D Logic board
Ts0P Trackpad ex cable
TB0T Battery
TB1T Battery
TB2T Battery
TB3T Battery
Refer to Knowledge Base article 112125: Service Diagnostics Matrix for diagnostic software.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Apple Service Diagnostics 24
Page 25
Clamshell Service Diagnostic Read Me
Isolating video and wireless issues in portable computers can be time consuming and
confusing. The Clamshell Service Diagnostic (CSD) is a new diagnostic tool that checks Apple’s
latest portable computers for the presence of AirPort, Bluetooth, LCD and Ambient Light Sensor
(ALS) to assist you in quickly making a failure determination.
Troubleshooting benets of using CSD include:
• Quick way (less than 1 minute) to determine whether clamshell-related modules (AirPort,
Bluetooth, LCD and ALS) are electrically connected without taking apart the system.
• Results of CSD can help pinpoint if any clamshell cables may need to be reseated to logic
board.
• Diagnostic results can help isolate a video or wireless issue to either the clamshell or the
logic board, to avoid unnecessary replacements of these components.
CSD checks for the presence of the computer’s:
• AirPort
• Bluetooth
• LCD
• ALS
CSD does not check for the presence of the computer’s:
• iSight camera
• externally connected hardware components (such as USB or FireWire devices)
CSD does not check for issues with the OS X or other software-related problems such as
application or extension conicts.
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies
When displaying a single color over the screen area, the LCD panel might show one or more
pixels that are not properly lit. To determine if the display has an acceptable number of pixel
anomalies, follow the steps below:
1. Set the display image to one of the following colors: all-white, all-red, all-green, all-blue, or
all-black display. Knowledge Base article 112125: Service Diagnostics Matrix has the LCD
Tester Diagnostic Utility that will generate these patterns on the screen.
2. Using a jeweler’s loupe, pocket microscope, or other magnifying device, identify and
count each pixel anomaly:
Bright subpixel anomaly = subpixel that is always on
Dark subpixel anomaly = subpixel that is always o
3. The number of acceptable pixel anomalies for this computer is:
Bright Up to 3
Dark Up to 5
Combination Up to 7
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Clamshell Service Diagnostic Read Me 25
Page 26
4. If the number of subpixel anomalies exceeds the acceptable number shown above, replace
the LCD panel display assembly. Numbers outside the acceptable range would be:
Bright 4 or more
Dark 6 or more
Combination 8 or more
5. If the number of subpixel anomalies is acceptable, explain to the customer that the pixel
anomalies are within specications, and no repair is necessary.
Important: Do not release the specications to customers. Instead, inform them that a
certain number of subpixel anomalies are considered acceptable, and these factors apply to
all manufacturers using LCD technology—not just Apple products.
When speaking with customers, please use the following explanation:
Active-matrix LCD technology uses rows and columns of addressable locations (pixels)
that render text and images on screen. Each pixel location has three separate subpixels
(red, green, and blue) that allow the image to be rendered in full color. Each subpixel has a
corresponding transistor responsible for turning the subpixel on or o.
There are typically millions of these subpixels on an LCD display. For example, the LCD
panel used in the Apple Cinema HD display is made up of 2.3 million pixels and 6.9 million
red, green, and blue subpixels. Occasionally, a transistor does not work perfectly, which
may result in the aected subpixel being turned on (bright) or turned o (dark). With
the millions of subpixels on a display, it is quite possible to have a low number of faulty
transistors on an LCD. Therefore, a certain number of subpixel anomalies are considered
acceptable. Rejecting all but perfect LCD panels would signicantly increase the retail
price for products using LCD displays. These factors apply to all manufacturers using LCD
technology—not just Apple products.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies 26
Page 27
Symptom Charts
Follow the steps in the order indicated below. If an action resolves the issue, retest the system
to verify. Note: A compilation of Quick Check tables is available at http://service.info.apple.
com/QRS/en/quickreference.pdf.
Note: There is no silk-screen text on nal production logic boards. The photos shown with test
points are from pre-production units and are solely for reference.
Startup and Power Issues
No Power
Unlikely cause: display assembly, speakers, optical drive, hard drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
No Power / Dead Unit
• No power
• No image
• No startup chime
• No fan or hard drive spin
• No reset sound from optical
drive
• No sleep LED activity
• No light if Caps Lock pressed
• Non-operational
1. Verify AC power presence with MagSafe LED
indicating on, or in charge state.
2. Verify unit’s power adapter on a known-good
system.
3. Reset SMC.
4. Run Battery Diagnostic Utility.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Test unit’s AC adapter on a
known-good system, and verify
that it can power and charge
the battery.
Yes AC adapter OK. Go to step 2
No Go to step 3. P01
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 27
Page 28
2. Connect known-good and
correct model of AC adapter
to unit and verify that it can be
powered on.
Yes Go to step 5.
No Go to step 9.
3. Inspect unit’s AC adapter and
verify that cable and MagSafe
connector have no damage
and are clean and free from
defects.
4. Run Battery & Adapter
Diagnostics utility on a knowngood system and verify that
adapter health is good.
5. Reset SMC. Connect knowngood AC adapter and startup
unit to verify that battery is
recognized and charges.
Yes Replace AC adapter P01
No Clean connector assembly,
release any stuck pin then
retest AC adapter on a
known-good system.
If damaged, replace AC
adapter for following
symptoms:
-damaged /burnt pins,
-damaged wire,.
P15
P16
If still no power go to step 4
Yes Retest AC adapter on unit
No Replace AC adapter if failing
P14
Adapter Diagnostics test
Yes Corrupt SMC state prevented
battery management. Issue
resolved with SMC reset.
No Go to step 6
2010-06-15
6. Verify that battery connector is
correctly seated and does not
have any damaged or bent pin.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 28
Yes Battery connector has no
visible damage. Go to step 7.
No Reseat battery connector and
retest. If physical damages are
found, replace damaged parts
and retest:
-damaged battery,
-damaged logic board
P11
M20
Page 29
7. Unit’s battery may be run
down, or not recognized.
Run Battery Diagnostic utility
and verify the battery health.
Yes Battery health is reported
good . Let battery fully charge
and retest. If system still does
not run from battery only, go
to step 8.
No Battery health is not reported
good: Replace unit’s battery
according to test failure result:
- for not charging,
- for not recognized,
- for a consumed battery
customer will need to
purchase a replacement one.
P10
P11
8. Substitute unit’s battery with a
known-good one to verify that
system starts on battery.
9. Inspect MagSafe port on
computer for physical damage,
debris or metal fragments
attracted to magnetic
connector and verify that
MagSafe connector is clean
and free from defects.
10. Verify adapter status LED turns
on green or orange indicating
power or battery charge in
progress.
A green LED can indicate a
full battery or a battery not
recognized.
11. Reset SMC. Verify that system
powers on after SMC reset.
Yes Replace unit’s battery. P11
No Replace logic board. M20
Yes Go to step 10
No Clean port assembly. Replace
X03
MagSafe board if necessary.
Yes MagSafe LED on indicates
power is owing to logic
board. Go to step 12
No Go to step 11
Yes Corrupt SMC state prevented
system power. Issue resolved
with SMC reset.
No Go to step 12.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 29
Page 30
12. Reseat the keyboard ex cable
to logic board. A disconnected
keyboard or a stuck/open
power-on key can disable
system powering on. If power
button does not work, use
jeweler’s atblade screwdriver
to short the Power On pads on
logic board (see image, left)
to power up the logic board.
If power-on key is stuck,
keyboard ex cable might
need to be disconnected
before shorting pads. Verify
that system powers on.
Yes Power on key works ne, issue
resolved.
Power on key works when
keyboard cable is reseated.
Power on key appears to
be stuck, had to remove
keyboard cable to power on.
Replace top case for stuck
power on key. K05
No No logic board power on
when shorting power-on
pads. Go to step 13
13. Remove logic board and verify
that the MagSafe connector
is correctly connected
underneath logic board.
Yes Replace MagSafe board;
retest.
With replaced MagSafe board
and known-good AC adapter
connected, short Power On
pins. If system still does not
power on, replace logic board.
No Reseat MagSafe connector on
logic board and retest.
Won’t Start Up
Unlikely cause: display assembly, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Power but No start up
• No startup chime, some video
activity, Apple logo, startup
spin dial
• Startup chime with possible
beep tones.
• Fan, hard drive spin or optical
drive reset sound
• Sleep LED is on , blinking or
went out
• Caps Lock LED toggles when
pressed
1. Reset SMC.
2. Verify startup process passes initial memory
checks – no beep errors or ashing sleep LED
indicators. Display activity is starting up.
3. Clear PRAM. Verify starts up from user drive.
4. Connect known-good external bootable device
and press Option (Alt) key during startup; then
select external startup device to bring up system
for diagnostics.
5. Verify presence and status of user hard drive. Use
Disk Utility to repair drive and le permissions.
X03
M01
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 30
Page 31
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Reset SMC and Clear PRAM to
set default startup device to
internal hard disk drive (HDD).
2. Verify that system is indicating
a memory error by repeating
ashing sequence of sleep LED
1 or 3. (Beep tones if sound is
enabled.)
3. Reseat unit’s memory and/or
test with known-good memory
to isolate bad memory. Verify
that issue does not reoccur
after replacing bad memory.
4. Hold the Option (Alt) key
during startup, and then verify
presence of bootable hard
drive in Startup Manager.
Select unit’s hard drive and
verify that unit starts up from
this drive.
Yes Unit’s hard drive bootable,
issue resolved default
settings.
No Computer not starting up, go
to step 2
Yes Troubleshoot memory issues,
go to step 3
No Continue with startup
sequence verication go to
step 4
Yes Replace defective unit’s
memory card. Continue to
verify startup process. Go to
step 4
No Should known-good memory
fail in one or more slots,
replace logic board.
Yes System starting up from
unit’s hard drive. Startup issue
resolved
No Unit’s hard drive not present
or does not start up from
this drive. Continue to nd
bootable device. Go to step 5
X02
M07
2010-06-15
5. Insert Mac OS install disc
in optical drive. Install disc
is bootable and should be
present in Startup Manager
when Option (Alt) key is
pressed on startup. Verify that
unit starts up from OS install
disc.
6. Boot from a known-good
(bootable) OS from a USB
drive or network server. Using
System Proler and Disk
Utility, verify that internal mass
storage devices are available.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 31
Yes Starts up from optical drive
- unit’s hard drive not yet
bootable, go to step 8
No Computer has no internal
bootable devices. Test
external startup devices, go
to step 6
Yes System started up from
external device and reports
data regarding internal SATA
devices. Go to step 7
No No startup devices available.
Replace logic board
M02
Page 32
7. Troubleshoot optical drive with
a known-good part and the
optical drive cable by reseating
it. Verify that issue does not
reoccur with reseated cable
and known-good part.
Yes Cable reseat solved issue.
Continue to verify hard drive
issues, go to step 8
Defective optical drive cable
found and replaced. Continue
to verify hard drive issues, go
to step 8
X03
8. Use Disk Utility loaded from OS
Install disc to verify that hard
drive is available on the left
side device list.
9. Troubleshoot hard drive with
a known-good part and the
SATA cable by reseating it.
Verify that issue does not
reoccur with reseated cable
and known-good part.
Defective optical drive found
J03
and replaced. Continue to
verify hard drive issues, go to
step 8
No Replace logic board M19
Yes Unit’s hard drive available for
inspections and repair. Go to
step 10.
No Hard drive not present,
troubleshoot hard drive and
cable. Go to step 9.
Yes Unit’s hard drive visible in
Disk Utility after reseating
SATA cable; go to step 10
Unit’s hard drive visible in
X03
Disk Utility after replacing
defective SATA cable; go to
step 10
Suspect unit’s hard drive
defective, attempt OS restore,
go to step 10
2010-06-15
10. Try to boot system with the
Shift key kept pressed until
spinning icon appears, and
verify that it boots to login
window.
11. Use Disk Utility to repair
unit’s hard drive. If there is an
installed OS on hard drive, also
correct permissions Verify OS
startup functionality after Disk
Utility repairs.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 32
No Known-good hard drive and
known-good hard drive SATA
cable used, still no hard drive
present. Replace logic board
Yes Go to software
troubleshooting article http://
support.apple.com/kb/
TS1388
No Go to step 11
Yes OS on unit’s hard drive
repaired, issue resolved.
No Hard drive not bootable,
perhaps missing OS, go to
step 12
M19
Page 33
12. Use Disk Utility to partition
unit’s hard drive with one GUID
partition; then restore OS using
unit’s original Mac OS install
disc. Verify that hard drive is
bootable after OS install.
Yes Unit’s hard drive now starts
up from new OS image, issue
resolved
No Replace hard drive. H02
Intermittent Shutdown
Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive
Troubleshooting Shutdown Issues
Before troubleshooting shutdown issues, always do the following:
• Run the available Apple diagnostics to check for cause of previous shutdown(s). Running
ASD also helps isolate any abnormal value reading from a thermal, voltage, or current
sensor or from a fan speed meter.
• Collect all available information from the user on shutdown details: periodicity, power state
when issue happens, running applications, running time before shutdown.
User-related shutdowns
A computer shutdown may be caused by user operation. Shutting down the computer (by
selecting the Shut Down menu, by pressing the power button for at least 4 seconds, or by
programming a timed shutdown in the Energy Saver preferences) should not be considered as
a failure unless the power button or the magnetic sleep sensors are found to be defective.
Suggested steps for troubleshooting:
• Reset SMC.
• Check Energy Saver preferences settings.
• Test top case button and magnetic sleep sensor operation and secure connection to logic
board.
Activity-related system shutdowns
These shutdowns are linked to system settings, devices drivers, applications, or operating
system freezes.
• System could not nish the standard shutdown process and had to force shutdown.
• An installed watchdog detected that an application did not respond within the specied
time. (This watchdog can be enabled in Mac OS X Server Energy Saver preferences.)
Suggested steps for troubleshooting:
• Check the system logs and activity monitor utility for clues on the freezing process.
• Check for available software and rmware updates for installed device drivers, applications,
or operating system.
• Start the system from a known-good and up-to-date bootable drive for issue reproduction.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 33
Page 34
Power-related system shutdowns
These shutdowns are due to power management, poor connections or defective power
sources.
• External or battery power source was removed.
• Battery went empty while computer was on.
• Battery went empty while computer was asleep.
Suggested steps for troubleshooting:
• Reset SMC.
• Check that AC cable, AC adapter and battery connections are secure to logic board.
• Verify battery and power adapter sources using the Battery and Adapter test utility.
Hardware-related system shutdown
These shutdowns are due to temperature, voltage, current, fan speed or other hardware-related
sensor values going out of range.
• One of the temperature sensors reached a specied temperature limit.
• One of the voltage sensors reached a specied voltage limit.
• One of the current sensors reached a specied current limit.
Suggested steps for troubleshooting:
• Check all sensors connections and values using Apple Service Diagnostics and other
available Apple Service utilities.
• Conrm correct Apple-branded battery and power adapter are installed.
• Check for abnormal battery temperature.
• Check fan(s) operation.
• Conrm cleanliness of heatsink ns and air ows.
• Conrm heatsink is correctly seated on logic board and thermal material is present.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 34
Page 35
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Intermittent shutdown
• Powers o during startup
• Powers o with desktop use
1. Collect details from customer on shutdown
occurrence and system conguration when it
happens (on battery, when running for a while,
frequency of shutdowns, running applications,
shutdown repeatability). If shutdown can be easily
reproduced, check next steps:
2. Verify battery charge status
3. Check AC adapter MagSafe connector and
connection with system
4. Reset SMC and PRAM
5. Start up with shift key down for safe mode
6. Startup from known-good bootable device
7. Run ASD for sensors + thermal tests
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Activity related shutdowns:
Reset SMC and PRAM and
verify that shutdown issue still
happens.
Yes Check with known-good
bootable drive: go to step 2
No Shutdown cause was related
to SMC or Pram programmed
shutdown settings or
corruption, and was resolved
by reverting them to default
settings.
2010-06-15
2. Booting from known-good
bootable drive , verify that
shutdown issue still happens.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 35
Yes Go to Power related
shutdowns on step 3
No Shutdown events do not
happen on known-good OS.
Reinstall Mac OS on customer
hard drive, update OS with
latest version and check if any
rmware update is available.
Page 36
3. Power related shutdowns :
verify that shutdown issue
can ONLY be reproduced with
user’s battery and AC adapter.
Yes Intermittent power issue
means checking user’s
AC cable for intermittent
connection, checking user’s
battery and AC adapter
health,
No Issue also happens with
known-good battery and AC
adapter. Go to step 4
4. Reset SMC and PRAM, then
verify if shutdown symptoms
does not happen anymore.
5. Check system running on
battery only. Use known-good
charged battery.
Verify if shutdown/reset/sleep
issues disappear when knowngood battery is used without
AC adapter.
6. Check with known-good AC
adapter source only
Remove battery and use
known-good AC adapter.
Verify if the shutdown/reset/
sleep issues disappear with
known-good adapter.
Yes Shutdown cause was related
to SMC or Pram settings or
corruption, and was resolved
by reverting them to default
settings.
No Shutdown event still occurs.
Go to step 5.
Yes Recharge customer battery
and retest. Check for
customer battery health
in Apple System Proler or
run Battery & Adapter Test
utility, and replace battery if
its health is reported bad or
consumed.
No Symptoms unchanged - Go
to step 6
Yes Faulty user’s AC adapter.
Replace user’s AC adapter if
AC cable and duckhead were
conrmed good.
No Symptoms unchanged - Go to
Hardware-related shutdowns
on step 7
P09
P14
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 36
Page 37
7. Hardware-related shutdowns:
Run ASD and verify if a sensor
failure is reported.
Yes -If a temperature or a fan
sensor failure is reported, go
to step 8
-If a voltage or a current
sensor failure is reported
in ASD w/known good AC
adapter and batteries, replace
logic board.
No Setup ASD to loop test suite
for burn in tests and go to
step 7. if no failure is found
after burn in tests, return unit
to customer for no failure
found.
M23
8. Verify if a thermal sensor or fan
failure is reported in ASD.
9. Isolate if issue solved
Verify if shutdown/issue does
not happen anymore after part
exchange.
Yes -If fan not running failure,
check for fan cable seating
and retest. If same failure
after retest replace fan with
known-good fan and retest.
If issue does not happen with
known-good fan, replace
user’s fan.
-If an over temp failure
reported, check for cause of
over temp, like obstructed
vent, dust in heatsink n,
clogged fan and retest. If still
failing replace part where
sensor is located (logic
board, battery, or trackpad)
according to the sensor
location table . Go to step 9
No Replace Thermal module
Go to step 9
Yes Issue xed
No Replace logic board with
corresponding symptom:
-if for thermal error cause
-if for other cause
X22
M23
P17
K99
X10
M18
M08
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 37
Page 38
No Video/Bad Video
Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive, top case, battery, power adapter
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Power, but No Video
• Power
• No video
• fan, hard drive spin, or optical
drive reset sound
• sleep LED is on or was on then
went o
• light if Caps Lock pressed
1. Adjust Brightness using brightness (F1/F2) keys
2. Reset SMC.
3. Reset PRAM.
4. If no startup chime, verify with known-good
memory.
5. Verify with external monitor.
6. Press Option (Alt) key on startup..
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Characterize issue.
Dene whether the issue is a
bad image with backlight OR a
no video issue.
Verify if image (even distorted)
is visible.
2. Reset SMC
Reset SMC and verify that
system video is displayed.
Yes Bad image quality; refer to
Display symptom charts
No No image seen or an image
is seen but without backlight,
go to Step 2
Yes Corrupt SMC State prevented
video.
No Go to Step 3.
2010-06-15
3. Reset PRAM.
If no action, use external
keyboard with same sequence.
Verify that correct system
video is displayed.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 38
Yes Invalid or Corrupt PRAM
contents aecting video
output
No Go to step 4
Page 39
4. Test external video. Connect a
known-good external display
to the system, press power
button and close display to
force main screen startup on
external display. Verify that
video is correct on external
display.
Yes Video correct on external
display. Research available
rmware and software
updates and retest.
If returning with already up to
date software, go to Step 5
No No video on external display.
Replace logic board with
according symptom code:
-no video
-bad/distorted video
M03
M04
5. Isolate LCD display detection
Disconnect external display,
reopen display and restart
system. Verify that sleep LED
indicator goes o after power
on, indicating that internal LCD
has been detected.
6. Check for a sleep sensor stuck
condition. When sleep sensor is
stuck, blank video will appear
temporarily on internal display,
until the OS detects the sleep
sensor state and sleeps the
system. Verify that system
starts up with video on internal
display and will sleep with
sleep LED pulsing.
Yes Sleep LED going o means
that LCD has been detected:
Go to step 7.
No Internal LCD is not detected.
Check display cable:
Inspect display cable for
damage on connector or
cable:
-if damage is found, replace
display module and retest,
-if no damage, run Clamshell
Service Diagnostic utility and
verify LCD panel presence. If
not found, reseat connector
on logic board and retest.
When retesting, if the sleep
LED remains on after system
is powered, go to step 6.
Yes Sleep sensor is stuck. Replace
logic board.
No Symptom unchanged - Sleep
LED stays on forever. Go to
Step 7.
L18
M22
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 39
Page 40
7. Check for No Backlight
Condition.
Power on system and verify
with a bright (low heat)
ashlight that a faint image is
seen on display when system is
powered on.
Yes Faint video is visible but no
backlight. Inspect display
connector and cable for
damage.
-If damage is found, replace
display module and retest
-If no damage, run Clamshell
Service Diagnostic utility
and check verify LCD panel
presence. If not found, reseat
cable and retest. If still no
backlight , replace display
module .
Go to step 9.
L18
L09
8. Verify with known-good
display.
Connect known-good display
module to user’s computer.
9. With reseated display cable or
replaced display module, verify
that system now has video and
backlight.
No No faint video can be seen
when using a bright (low
heat) ashlight; replace
display module and retest.
If issue persists, go to step 8.
Yes System is functioning with
known-good display module.
Replace user’s display module
with related symptom:
- had no power issue
- had blank video
- had no backlight
No Symptoms unchanged - Go
to step 9.
Yes Issue was due to unseated
connector, damaged cable or
defective display module.
No Previous display module cable
damaged the logic board.
Remove rear vent and check
backlight fuse (see picture on
left). If fuse is blown, replace
logic board.
L09
L01
L03
L09
M25
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 40
Page 41
Battery Isn’t Recognized or Won’t Charge
Unlikely cause: display assembly, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, trackpad
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Battery isn’t recognized or won’t
charge
• AC adapter
• No MagSafe LED indicator
• No orange charge indication
• X on Battery in status menu
• no lightning icon on Battery
in status menu when battery
needs to be charged..
1. Check battery level in menu bar, and test AC
power.
2. Reset SMC by pressing the (left) Shift-ControlOption keys along with the power button once.
3. Make sure that customer has correct adapter
model for this system
4. Test unit’s battery, using Notebook Battery and
Adapter Diagnostic.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that the MagSafe LED
goes green to amber when
connected to the system.
Yes Battery is recognized and
charging. Go to step 7.
No LED is green, Battery may be
either fully charged or not
recognized. Go to step 2.
LED was on momentarily then
went out. Go to No Power
troubleshooting table.
2010-06-15
2. Startup unit and verify that
unit detects an installed
battery in menu bar icon.
3. Verify that battery menu
indicates a fully charged
battery
4. Verify whether the battery
menu shows an X meaning
that battery is not recognized.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 41
Yes Go to step 3.
No Go to step 8
Yes Unit’s battery charged.
Run Notebook Battery and
Adapter Diagnostic to check
for battery health. Go to step
7.
No Go to step 4
Yes Go to step 5.
No Go to step 7.
Page 42
5. Inspect unit’s battery contacts
and battery cable connector
for corrosion or obstructions.
Yes Clear obstructions or replace
the battery if cable is
corroded and retest.
No Go to step 6.
X03
6. Reseat battery harness at
logic board connector, and
retest. Verify that battery is
recognized and charging.
7. Run Notebook Battery and
Adapter Diagnostic to check
for battery health. Verify that
reported battery status health
is Good.
8. Verify that reported battery
status health is Consumed
(Depleted).
9. Reported battery status health
is Defective (Bad). Verify
whether battery is still covered
by Apple 1-year warranty
Yes Issue resolved by cable reseat.
No Check battery health. Go to
step 7.
Yes Battery health status is Good.
Go to step 10.
No Go to step 8
Yes Battery has been consumed,
and customer will need to
purchase a replacement
No Go to step 9.
Yes Battery is still covered by
Apple one year warranty.
Replace defective battery
with relevant symptom code:
-Battery - Runtime Too Short
-Battery - Will Not Charge
-Battery - Not Recognized
-Battery - Won’t Run.
P09
P10
P11
P12
2010-06-15
10. Health of the battery is
reported “Good.” Verify that
battery is still covered by Apple
one year warranty.
11. With battery charge greater
than 20% verify that battery
supports system operation
without AC connected.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 42
No Battery exceeds one-year
warranty coverage; customer
needs to purchase a
replacement one
Yes Battery function normal. If
issue remains, go to step 11.
No Battery is out of 1-year
warranty coverage. Battery
should continue to function
until consumed. If issue
reoccurs, customer will need
to purchase a replacement
one.
Yes Unit’s battery is good
No Go to step 12
Page 43
12. Test with a known-good
charged battery only. Verify
that system supports running
from battery only.
Yes Replace battery P12
No Replace logic board M20
Kernel Panic/System Crashes
Unlikely cause: Battery, Power Adapter
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Memory Issues/Kernel panic and
freezes
• Display notice of system kernel
panic during start up and
desktop use.
• System freeze during use.
• System freeze upon wake from
sleep.
1. Reset SMC and clear PRAM
2. Remove suspect external devices.
3. Verify memory cards are Apple-approved
memory, and memory conguration matches
memory installed.
4. Start up with shift key down for safe mode.
5. Startup from known-good bootable device
6. Check panic.log info for crash cause
7. Run AHT/ ASD for sensors test
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Isolate Peripherals as cause.
Disconnect all peripherals,
external devices, and display
adapters if present
Yes Suspect peripherals as cause.
Reconnect one at a time,
verifying unit operation at
each stage
2010-06-15
2. Reset SMC and clear PRAM
then verify that unit starts
without panic issues.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 43
No Go to Step 2
Yes Issue resolved with default
startup settings.
No Go to step 3
Page 44
3. Boot in Safe Mode with Shift
key down, and check for recent
kernel panic data in panic log.
Open Panic.log le on hard
drive and check for aected
interface that crashed. If unit
still crashes during startup, you
will need to take out disk to
a good system to access the
le. Verify that kernel panic
dependency is not listed to an
I/O interface.
Yes Kernel Panic is not a system
I/O related device. Go to step
4
No I/O device related crash, go to
step 5
4. Kernel Panic is not a system I/O
related device. Reseat memory
or replace suspect memory
with known-good memory.
Verify that issue does not
reoccur.
5. Remove I/O device where
possible to pinpoint faulty
device:
- Disconnect AirPort/Bluetooth
card cable on logic board.
(Cable can be disconnected
without aecting hard disk
startup and test).
- Disconnect optical drive cable
to isolate optical drive (Cable
can be disconnected without
aecting hard disk startup and
test).
.
- Disconnect hard drive cable to
isolate hard drive (Cable can be
disconnected without aecting
startup from a bootable optical
drive media and test).
Verify each time if issue
disappears when device is
disconnected..
Yes Issue appears to be due to
memory card badly seated or
defective memory card. Retest
one by one with known-good
memory. If conrmed, replace
aected memory card.
No Go to step 5.
Yes System starts up when I/O
device removed, replace
aected I/O device or module
containing it.
-If issue does not happen
anymore after AirPort/
Bluetooth cable has been
disconnected from logic
board, replace AirPort/
Bluetooth cable .
If still issue, replace AirPort/
Bluetooth card
-If issue does not happen
anymore after optical drive
has been disconnected,
replace optical drive cable
and retest. If issue remains
try with known-good optical
drive: if still issue, replace
logic board
-If issue does not happen
anymore after hard drive has
been disconnected, replace
hard drive cable and retest.
If issue remains, try with
known-good hard drive. If still
issue, replace logic board.
X01
X03
N13
X03
M06
X01
M06
2010-06-15
No Symptoms unchanged, go to
step 6
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 44
Page 45
6. Start up from optical drive or
known-good OS.
Attempt to start up with
original Mac OS install disc, or
from an external hard drive
with known-good Mac OS
installed, and verify that unit
starts without kernel panic.
Yes Kernel panics cease running
alternate OS. Run ASD/Disk
Utility to repair and test hard
drive. If repair attempts fail,
repartition hard drive and
reinstall OS. Replace hard
drive if restore fails.
No Symptoms unchanged, go to
Step 7
H03
7. Check for thermal values and
fan running speed
Run ASD to check for fan
and sensors test, and verify
that ASD does not report any
overtemp, failing sensor, or fan.
Battery Run Time Too Short
Quick Check
Yes No thermal fail detected.
Replace logic board with
matching symptom:
- If hang or freeze
- If Kernel Panic/system
crashes
No If a sensor test failed in ASD,
check sensor connections to
logic board and retest. If still
failing, replace sensor or part
where it is located (trackpad,
logic board, , fan, other):
-If trackpad sensor failed
-If logic board sensor failed
-If fan test failed, replace fan.
M05
M06
M23
M18
X22
2010-06-15
Symptom Quick Check
Battery Run Time Too Short
Battery runs out of power very
quickly (less than two hours)
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 45
1. Use the “Portable Computer Battery Screening
Process for Apple Service Providers” (Knowledge
Base CP165) and run the Notebook Battery and
Adapter Diagnostic.
2. Verify no applications have runaway processes
with the CPU. See “Runaway applications can
shorten battery runtime” (Knowledge Base
TS1473).
3. Use “Apple Portables: Battery Life” (Knowledge
Base HT1466) to screen for short battery run
time.
Page 46
Won’t Run on Power Adapter
Unlikely cause: RAM, display assembly, hard drive, optical drive, top case, speakers, camera,
microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Won’t Run on Power Adapter
Alone
Runs on battery but not on power
adapter only.
1. Verify proper wattage adapter is being used.
2. Check for dirty or stuck pins on the MagSafe
connectors, both on the adapter and the
computer.
3. Connect the AC adapter to known-good power
source.
4. Verify power cord or plug is properly attached to
AC adapter and MagSafe cable is not damaged.
5. Check for dirty or stuck pins on the MagSafe
connectors, both on the adapter and the
computer. Use and cleaning of power adapter
with MagSafe
6. Reset SMC by pressing the (left) Shift-ControlOption keys along with the power button once.
7. Run the Notebook Battery and Adapter
Diagnostic with a known-good adapter.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
2010-06-15
1. Reset SMC and verify that a
known-good connected power
adapter has the MagSafe LED
light up either green or amber.
2. Disconnect battery. Verify that
a known-good power adapter
starts up and run the system
and show MagSafe LED status.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 46
Yes SMC on logic board senses AC
power adapter. Go to step 2.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Go to step 3.
No Go to step 4
Page 47
3. Reconnect battery. Verify that
a known-good power adapter
starts up and run the system
and show MagSafe LED status.
Yes Leave battery charge for
some minutes. Meanwhile,
run Notebook Battery and
Adapter Diagnostic with unit’s
adapter to conrm adapter
is defective and needs
replacement.
No Go to step 4.
P14
4. Reseat MagSafe board
connection to logic board,
and verify that a known-good
power adapter starts up and
run the system and show
MagSafe LED status.
5. Verify that a known-good
power adapter starts up and
run the system and show
MagSafe LED status.
Yes Issued resolved.
No Replace MagSafe board and
go to step 5.
Yes Issued resolved.
No Replace logic board M01
Noise / Hum / Vibration
Unlikely cause: RAM, display assembly, top case, camera, microphone, battery
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Noise / Hum / Vibration
Computer or AC adapter emits
noise or vibration.
1. Verify and reproduce the source of the noise from
the computer / adapter with the customer.
2. If the AC adapter is the source of the noise
disconnect and try a known-good adapter. (A
small amount of hum or vibration is normal with
AC adapters.)
M01
2010-06-15
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Use of a known-good AC
adapter eliminates the noise/
vibration.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 47
Yes Replace AC adapter. P04
No Go to step 2
Page 48
2. Plug and unplug headphones
and verify that the noise is
heard through the speakers
and / or headphones.
Yes Go to step 3
No Go to step 4
3. Disconnect any peripheral
devices, cards, or cables
attached to the unit. Verify the
noise is gone.
4. Locate the source of the
noise. Verify that the noise
comes from the optical drive
operation.
5. Verify that the noise is coming
from the hard drive.
Yes Check for possible ground
loop.
No Go to step 6
Yes Check with a dierent media
disc. Possible issue with disc
label or out of balance media.
If not related to media, and
noise is above normal level,
reseat optical drive and retest.
If issue remains, replace
optical drive.
No Go to step 5
Yes Identify the type/speed of
installed drive. It is normal for
drives to produce noise when
they spin up, when the heads
move or lock to their safety
landing place. Replace the
drive if noise is above normal
levels.
J04
H06
6. Verify that the noise is coming
from the fan.
No Go to step 6
Yes The fan is generally running
slowly but may accelerate
when intensive processing
is required (calculation, 3D
gaming, or screen saver
animation). If still beyond
expected sound level, check
for interference of fan with
other mechanical element of
system (foam, bracket, shield)
before replacing a noisy fan.
No Go to step 7.
X23
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 48
Page 49
7. Noise may be related to
interference from other
electrical devices operating
near computer, or on same AC
power source. Verify if noise
is gone when operating in a
dierent location on a dierent
AC circuit.
Yes Perhaps operating the unit
No Replace logic board. M09
Burnt Smell / Odor
Unlikely cause: Enclosure
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
with a surge suppressor will
eliminate or reduce the noise.
Change location of use or
limit use of other device that
is inducing the noise.
Burnt Smell / Odor
Computer or power adapter emits
an odor or smell of smoke.
1. Disconnect the battery and AC adapter from the
computer.
2. Attempt to identify the source of the odor. Visual
clues are component damaged like capacitor chip
popped or burn marks.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether the source of
the odor has been identied.
2. Verify whether there are
any burn marks visible on
components.
Yes Replace the aected part. P08
No Go to step 2
Yes An improperly seated or
damaged cable can blow
logic board components.
Make sure you identify the
cause before replacing the
aected part.
No Go to step 3
P08
2010-06-15
3. Refer to Liquid Submersion
Indicators. Verify whether any
of the submersion indicators
turned red, showing that
system suered from liquid
spillage.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 49
Yes For more information, refer
to Knowledge Base article
http://support.apple.com/
kb/HT3400: “About Liquid
submersion indicators (LSI) on
portable computers.
Go to step 4
Page 50
4. Verify that the computer is
operating normally.
Yes This could be related to
No Please refer to best related
Battery Leaking or Swollen
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
normal operation. Also check
for accidental damage cause
using Knowledge Base article
http://support.apple.com/
kb/CP161.
troubleshooting section. If
after inspecting the unit you
feel there is a possible safety
issue with the computer or
AC adapter, please notify
Apple.
Battery Leaking or Swollen
• Trackpad button does not work
• Battery pack case has opened.
• Bottom cover cannot be
reinstalled
1. Check if the battery is covered under a repair
extension program.
1. Use the “Portable Computer Battery Screening
Process for Apple Service Providers” (Knowledge
Base CP165) and use “Battery pack is visibly
deformed” case under section 2E. Use symptom
code P13.
Uncategorized Symptom
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptom
Unable to locate appropriate
symptom code
Verify whether existing symptom code applies
to the issue reported by the customer. If not,
document reported symptom and send feedback
to smfeedback@apple.com stating that a suitable
symptom code could not be found.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 50
Page 51
Communications
Ethernet Port/Device Issue
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, camera,
microphone, top case, display module, AirPort card
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Ethernet Port/Device Issue
• No Ethernet device present
• Unable to access network
resources
• Ethernet device shows no
connection
• Ethernet device unable to get
an IP address
• Slow network performance
1. Check the network cable for damage, try a
known good Ethernet cable – CAT5 or better
recommended for 100Mbps+ connections.
2. Check Ethernet ports on Mac and wall/switch for
dust, debris, damage or bent pins. Also make sure
that user does not insert cable upside down in
the Ethernet connector.
3. Ensure distance from networking infrastructure is
less than 300 feet / 105 meters.
4. Verify port, cable and network hardware with a
known good system. Isolate rewall, MAC address
ltering or hardware access control devices.
5. Check system logs. Isolate OS by starting up from
original OS install disc (10.5.x) or compatible
known good OS.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Visually inspect Ethernet
connector to ensure all pins
will make physical contact with
CAT5 network cable.
Yes Ethernet interface contacts
are good. Go to step 2.
No Pins are damaged or bent at,
replace logic board.
M10
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 51
Page 52
2. Isolate OS by booting from
original OS install disc. Verify
Network Link status active by
using Network Utility on install
DVD. If the Ethernet interface
(en0) Link Status is inactive,
recheck physical connect and
link activity indicator on hub/
switch.
Yes Ethernet interface (en0) Link
Status is active, go to step 3.
No If connection is OK on known-
good system, replace logic
board.
M10
3. Verify if IP address is listed
for the Ethernet interface in
System Preferences: Network.
Connect computer to network
with known-good DHCP IP
allocation, ensuring static
DHCP maps or ltering is not
preventing address allocation.
Note: DHCP allocation may not
be instantaneous depending
on network. Retest.
4. Verify connection by using
Network Utility to ping another
connected computer on the
same subnet. Ensure the
target computer’s IP address is
valid, on the same subnet and
powered on. Ensure no MAC
address ltering or hardware
access control devices are
present. Use a simple hub/
switch environment.
Yes Go to step 4.
No If connection is OK on known-
good system, replace logic
board.
Yes Go to step 5
No If the symptoms do not
change, replace the logic
board.
M10
M10
2010-06-15
5. Verify Ethernet performance
and reliability by starting up
from a known-good OS install,
and downloading a large le
from a web site or le server.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 52
Yes If there is no performance or
connectivity issue isolated
solely to the system under
test, the problem may be the
network environment. No
repair is necessary.
No If there are connection
dropouts or poor
performance not seen on
a known-good test system,
replace the logic board.
M10
Page 53
AirPort/Bluetooth: Defective Wireless Devices
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, microphone, top
case
Caution: When testing an AirPort/Bluetooth card connection, wait at least 5 seconds after
shutdown before touching the camera cable connection to the logic board. Waiting less than
that could damage the AirPort card.
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
AirPort or Bluetooth: Defective
Wireless Devices
• Unable to join networks or pair
devices
• Card not available or
recognized
• Intermittent device or
connection dropouts
1. Open System Preferences and make sure AirPort
or Bluetooth is turned on and (for AirPort) that a
network is selected.
2. Check that base station is not using unsupported
connection and encryption protocols.
3. Check for nearby interference sources such as
microwave ovens or cordless phones (Knowledge
Base HT1365)
4. Check the number of users trying to use AirPort in
the area for possible network congestion.
5. Isolate OS by booting from original OS install
disc (10.6.x). Attempt to connect to base
station (AirPort) or pair with wireless keyboard
(Bluetooth).
6. Reset PRAM.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 53
Page 54
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Open System Proler, check
to see if AirPort and Bluetooth
interfaces are recognized.
Ensure that available software
and rmware updates for
AirPort and Bluetooth have
been applied.
2. Reseat both ends of the
AirPort/Bluetooth ex cable
connection to the logic
board. Retest and verify that
the AirPort and Bluetooth
interfaces are now recognized
in System Proler.
Yes -(AirPort) Ensure MAC address
ltering is not enabled on the
base station.
-(Bluetooth) Ensure
target devices are set to
discoverable.
Go to No/Poor Wireless Signal
symptom table.
No If card is not detected and
available software updates do
not resolve issue, go to step 2.
Yes Loose cable connection.
No Check for damaged or bent
pins in both ends of ex cable
and in connectors:
-If damage is found, replace
cable and retest. If issue
remains, go to step 3.
-If no damage found, go to
step 3.
X03
3. Try a known-good AirPort/
Bluetooth ex cable.
Verify that the AirPort and
Bluetooth interfaces are now
recognized in System Proler.
4. Try a known-good AirPort/
Bluetooth card.
Verify that the AirPort and
Bluetooth interfaces are now
recognized in System Proler.
Yes Replace user’s AirPort/
Bluetooth ex cable.
No Continue to use known-good
cable, go to step 4.
Yes Replace user’s AirPort/
Bluetooth card. .
No Replace user’s logic board. M11
X03
N18
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 54
Page 55
No/Poor Wireless Signal
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, camera,
microphone, top case
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
No/Poor Wireless Signal
• Unable to nd networks
• Intermittent connection
dropouts
• Slow transfer speeds
1. Check for nearby interference sources in the
2.4/5GHz range such as microwave ovens and
cordless phones (Knowledge Base HT1365).
2. Check that computer is within base station range
– move closer to base station.
3. Base station checks:
a. Base station is not set to low-power
transmission mode
b. Base station is not using unsupported
connection and encryption protocols
c. Check for possible Wi-Fi channel overlap
(nearby base stations using adjacent channel)
4. Isolate OS by booting from original OS install disc
(10.6x). Attempt to connect to base station.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Use Software Update to make
sure all AirPort and Bluetooth
software and rmware updates
have been applied. Open
System Proler, and verify that
both AirPort and Bluetooth
devices are recognized..
Yes Ensure base station is not
using MAC address ltering
or creating a hidden network.
Go to step 2.
No If card is not detected, go to
previous Symptom - AirPort/
Bluetooth - Defective wireless
devices symptom table..
2010-06-15
2. Check that the Bluetooth and
the two AirPort antennas are
all connected to the AirPort/
Bluetooth card.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 55
Yes Go to step 3
No One or more of the three
antennas was disconnected.
Reseat and retest.
If one of the antennas is
damaged, replace display
module and retest
L18
Page 56
3. Verify that the two AirPort
antennas connections to the
AirPort card are not reversed,.
Yes Crossed AirPort antenna
connections. Reseat them in
correct order and retest.
No If the connectors are secure,
antenna connections not
reversed and show no signs
of damage or wear, go to step
4.
4. Try a known-good AirPort/
Bluetooth card, and verify that
the No/Poor Wireless signal
issue is xed.
Yes Replace user’s AirPort/
Bluetooth card..
No Replace display module for
failing antenna.
Wireless Input Device Loses Connection
Unlikely cause: display module, speaker assembly, optical drive, hard drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Wireless Input Device Loses
Connection
1. Check Bluetooth input device has fully charged
batteries.
2. With user’s Bluetooth input device paired, check
that all software and rmware updates have been
applied.
N14
L16
2010-06-15
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. System Proler should list
Bluetooth device under system
hardware. Is Bluetooth device
available?
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 56
Yes Bluetooth radio present, verify
Bluetooth preference settings,
go to step 2.
No Go to AirPort/Bluetooth:
Defective Wireless Devices
symptom table
Page 57
2. System Preferences has a
Bluetooth panel. Ensure
that Bluetooth is on and
discoverable, that known-good
Bluetooth device is on, in close
range, and in discoverable
mode. Verify that device is
listed in pairing window.
Yes Choose known-good device
and establish a connection.
Go to step 3.
No Go to step 5.
3. Verify that computer is pairing
with known-good device.
4. Test user’s Bluetooth device
and verify that computer
is also pairing with user’s
Bluetooth device.
5. Reseat Bluetooth antenna on
AirPort/Bluetooth card. Is the
Bluetooth radio on and pairing
with a known-good device?
6. Install and test with a knowngood AirPort/Bluetooth card.
Is the Bluetooth radio now
pairing with a known-good
device?
Yes Pairing veried, connect with
user’s device, go to step 4
No Go to step 5.
Yes Connection established,
Continue testing with knowngood Bluetooth input device
for connection loss. Go to
step 7.
No Replace defective user’s
Bluetooth device if Apple and
within 1-year warranty.
Yes Loose antenna connection.
No Go to step 6.
Yes Replace defective user’s
AirPort/Bluetooth card.
No Replace display module for
defective antenna.
K08
N15
L16
2010-06-15
7. Continue to actively test
a known-good Bluetooth
device to determine if there
is a disconnect. Do not allow
computer to sleep during this
test. Verify whether link was
lost during test.
8. Continue to test user’s
Bluetooth device .Open
Bluetooth Setup Assistant and
enable “start up when no input
device is present”.. Verify that
device looses connection.
Yes Check for software update,
2.4/5 GHz radio interference
or device low battery.
No Known-good device passed,
Test with user’s Bluetooth
device: go to .step 8.
Yes Check for 2.4/5 GHz radio
interference, device low
battery or user’s device
features list for explanation.
No User’s device not losing
connection. Issue not
repeatable or resolved.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 57
Page 58
AirPort Card: Kernel Panic
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, camera,
microphone, top case
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
AirPort Card: Kernel Panic
• Kernel panic on boot
• Kernel panic or freezing while
attempting to connect to Wi-Fi
networks
• Kernel panic while transferring
data on Wi-Fi networks.
1. Isolate OS by booting from original OS install disc
(10.6x). Attempt to connect to Wi-Fi network.
2. Using an Ethernet connection temporarily, run
automatic Software Update to make sure all
AirPort software and rmware updates have been
applied.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Use Software Update to make
sure all AirPort/Bluetooth
software and rmware updates
have been applied. Ensure
MAC address ltering is not
enabled on the base station.
Verify that kernel panic issue is
resolved.
2. Reseat the AirPort/Bluetooth
ex cable connection to the
logic board and to the card.
Verify that the kernel panic is
resolved
Yes Software issue.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Loose cable connection.
No Check for damaged or bent
pins in both ends of ex cable
and in connectors:
-If damage is found, replace
cable and retest. If issue
remains, go to step 3.
-If no damage found, go to
step 3.
X03
2010-06-15
3. Disconnect the AirPort/
Bluetooth ex cable from the
logic board, and verify that the
kernel panic issue is resolved.
Yes Go to step 4.
No Go to Kernel Panic / System
Crashes symptom table..
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 58
Page 59
4. Connect and test with a
known-good AirPort/Bluetooth
ex cable. Verify that kernel
panic issue is resolved.
Yes Replace AirPort/Bluetooth ex
cable and retest..
No Go to step 5
X03
5. Connect and test with a
known-good AirPort/Bluetooth
card. Verify that kernel panic
issue is resolved.
6. Boot from known-good boot
image of Mac OS. Verify that
kernel panic issue is resolved.
Yes Replace AirPort/Bluetooth
card and retest.
No Go to step 6
Yes Restore Mac OS
No Replace logic board. M06
Wireless Performance Issue / Slow Connection
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, camera,
microphone, top case
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Wireless Performance Issue /
Slow Connection
• Slow or stalled data transfers
• Intermittent connection
dropouts
• AirPort does not work from
Install disc alone
1. Check for nearby interference sources in the
2.4/5GHz range such as microwave ovens or
cordless phones (Knowledge Base HT1365)
2. (AirPort) Check the number of AirPort users in the
area for possible network congestion. Move closer
to base station to improve signal reception.
3. (Bluetooth) Move devices closer together.
N13
2010-06-15
4. Check performance with a known-good system.
5. (AirPort) Wireless base station checks:
a. Base station is not set to low-power
transmission mode.
b. Base station is not set to a slower protocol
mode (802.11b).
c. Check for possible Wi-Fi channel overlap
(nearby base stations using adjacent channel).
6. Isolate OS by booting from known-good boot
image on external drive. Attempt to connect to
(AirPort) base station or pair with (Bluetooth)
wireless keyboard.
7. Use Software Update to check all AirPort and
Bluetooth software/rmware updates have been
applied.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 59
Page 60
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Inspect the display clutch
barrel for damage. AirPort and
Bluetooth antennas are in
display clutch barrel area.
2. Turn o Bluetooth. Retest
AirPort performance. Refer to
Knowledge Base TS1809.
3. Check that the Bluetooth
and AirPort antennas are
connected to the AirPort/
Bluetooth card..
4. (AirPort) Verify that the two
antennas connections to the
AirPort/Bluetooth card are not
reversed or loose.
Yes Record damage: Proceed
to possibly repair damaged
parts, go to step 2
No No visible damage, go to step
2
Yes Possible AirPort interference
from the Bluetooth card.
Change AirPort base station
channel. (Knowledge Base
TS1809.)
No Continue by checking
connections, go to step 3
Yes -AirPort issue, go to step 4,
-Bluetooth issue, go to step 6.
No Reconnect antenna(s) and
retest.
Yes Loose connection or crossed
antenna. Reseat antennas.
If damage is found, replace
display module for aected
element:
-damaged AirPort antenna
assembly,
-or damaged AirPort/
Bluetooth card
L16
L23
2010-06-15
5. (AirPort) Try a known-good
AirPort/Bluetooth card. Verify
that Wireless Performance /
Slow Issue issue is xed..
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 60
No If the connectors are secure,
antenna connections is not
reversed and does not show
any signs of damage or wear,
go to step 5
Yes Replace user’s AirPort/
Bluetooth card..
No Replace user’s display module
for defective antenna.
N14
L16
Page 61
6. (Bluetooth) Verify that the
Bluetooth antenna connection
to the AirPort/Bluetooth card is
not loose.
Yes Loose connection. Reseat
antenna. If damage is found,
replace defective element:
-replace display module for
damaged Bluetooth antenna,
-or replace damaged AirPort/
Bluetooth card
No If the connectors are secure,
and antenna connection does
not show sign of damage or
wear, go to step 7
X03
N04
7. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good
AirPort/Bluetooth card if
available. Verify that Wireless
Performance /Slow Issue issue
is xed..
Yes Replace user’s AirPort/
Bluetooth card..
No Replace user’s display module
for defective Bluetooth
antenna.
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair
Unlikely cause: display module, logic board, optical drive, hard drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t
Pair
• Can’t get the system to
recognize the Bluetooth
keyboard or mouse
1. Check Bluetooth System Preference is set to
Discoverable.
2. Check Bluetooth device has fully charged
batteries.
3. Check for Bluetooth software updates for both
the device and Mac OS X.
N14
L23
2010-06-15
4. If the Bluetooth pairs with no problems, probe
about potential interference issue at user’s site.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 61
Page 62
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. System Proler should list
Bluetooth radio device under
system hardware. Verify that
Bluetooth device is listed in
System Proler.
2. System Preferences has a
Bluetooth panel. Ensure
Bluetooth is on and
discoverable. Ensure a knowngood Bluetooth device is on, in
close range and discoverable
mode, Verify that there is (are)
device(s) listed in pairing
window.
3. Ensure a known-good
Bluetooth device is on, in close
range and discoverable mode.
Is system pairing with knowngood device?
Yes Bluetooth radio present, verify
Bluetooth preference settings,
go to step 2.
No Go to AirPort/Bluetooth:
Defective Wireless Devices
symptom table
Yes Choose known-good device
and establish a connection.
Go to step 3.
No Attempt Bluetooth repair, go
to step 5.
Yes Pairing veried, connect with
user’s device, go to step 4.
No Attempt Bluetooth repair, go
to step 5.
4. Verify that Bluetooth pairing
with user’s Bluetooth is device?
5. Check Bluetooth antenna
connection to the AirPort/
Bluetooth card. Verify that
system now pairs with the
known-good device.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Check for available software
and rmware updates for
both system and user device.
Yes Bluetooth antenna not
connected. Issue resolved.
No Go to step 6.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 62
Page 63
6. Verify that the Bluetooth
antenna connection to the
AirPort/Bluetooth card is not
loose.
Yes Loose connection. Reseat
antenna. If damage is found,
replace aected element:
-replace display module for
damaged Bluetooth antenna,
-or replace damaged AirPort/
Bluetooth card
No If the connectors are secure,
and antenna connection does
not show sign of damage or
wear, go to step 7
L23
N17
7. Install and test a known good
AirPort/Bluetooth card. Verify
that the Bluetooth radio is
present, on and now pairing
with a known-good device.
Yes Replace AirPort/Bluetooth
No Replace display module for
Uncategorized Symptom
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptom
Unable to locate appropriate
symptom code
Verify whether existing symptom code applies to the
issue reported by the user. If not, document reported
symptom and send feedback to smfeedback@apple.
com stating that a suitable symptom code could not
be found.
N15
card..
L23
defective Bluetooth antenna.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 63
Page 64
Display
Display Anomalies
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Display Anomalies
• Incorrect/missing colors
• Distorted/blurred image
• Pixel anomalies
• Vertical/horizontal lines
• Non-uniform brightness
• Image icker
• Image persistence
1. Allow display to reach normal operating
temperature for about 15 minutes before
evaluating front-of-screen performance.
2. Check display preferences for use of custom
display prole.
3. Check brightness setting.
4. Check for Software Updates.
5. Clean glass panel while checking for dust/debris
6. Check with an externally connected display.
Deep Dive: General
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify if user’s issue is incorrect/
missing colors.
2. Verify if user’s issue is distorted/
blurred image.
Yes Go to Incorrect/Missing
Colors Deep Dive.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Go to Distorted/Blurred
Image Deep Dive.
2010-06-15
3. Verify if user’s issue is bright or
dark pixel anomalies.
4. Verify if user’s issue is vertical or
horizontal lines.
5. Verify if user’s issue is nonuniform brightness.
No Go to step 3.
Yes Go to Pixel Anomalies Deep
Dive.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Go to Vertical/Horizontal
Lines Deep Dive.
No Go to step 5.
Yes Go to Non-uniform
Brightness Deep Dive.
No LCD functioning OK.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 64
Page 65
Deep Dive: Incorrect/Missing Colors
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify display is listed in the
System Proler’s Graphics/
Displays device tree.
2. Verify System Preferences
Display Prole is valid for
display being tested. Color
prole should be set to Color
LCD, user may have created an
o-color calibration setting.
3. Verify that the glass panel is
free of contaminants.
4. Inspect & verify that display
cable and logic board
connectors are free from any
damage or bent pins.
Yes This ensures color prole can
be matched with LCD. Go to
step 2.
No No communication with LCD
device data. Go to step 7. .
Yes If display prole is valid and
colors are still incorrect or
missing, go to step 3.
No Set System Preferences:
Displays: Color to Color LCD
and retest.
Yes Go to step 4.
No Clean glass panel using
approved method. Retest.
Yes Reseat cable and go to step 5
No -If display cable connector
is damaged, replace display
module and retest.
-If logic board connector is
damaged, replace logic board
and retest.
L18
M24
2010-06-15
5. After cable has been inspected
run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for LCD panel presence. If not
found, reseat cable and verify
that missing colors have been
restored.
6. Set desktop pattern in System
Preferences to ‘Solid Gray Light’.
Verify if incorrect/missing color
issue aects entire display.
7. Set up display under test side
by side with another known
good display showing the
same image. Verify if issue
is noticeably worse on the
display being tested.
Yes Loose cable connection. Issue
resolved.
No Go to step 6.
Yes Test needed with known-
good display, go to step 8
No Go to step 7.
Yes Test needed with known-
good display, go to step 8
No Small variations in color
uniformity are normal and do
not warrant replacement or
repair of the display.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 65
Page 66
8. Substitute a known-good
display module to test logic
board video output. Verify that
normal video is restored.
Yes Replace display module. L02
No Replace logic board. M04
Deep Dive: Distorted/Blurred Image
Check Result Action Code
1. Sample image illustrates loss of
display data signals to LCD or
a defective LCD panel. Inspect
& verify that display cable and
logic board connectors are free
from any damage or bent pins.
2. After cable has been inspected
and reseated, verify that
normal video is restored.
3. Substitute a known good
display module to test logic
board internal video output.
Verify that normal video is
restored.
Deep Dive: Pixel Anomalies
Yes Reseat cable and go to step 2
No -If display cable connector
is damaged, replace display
module and retest.
-If logic board connector is
damaged, replace logic board
and retest.
Yes Issue was due to loose
connection. Display issue
resolved.
No Go to step 3..
Yes Replace display module. L04
No Replace logic board. M04
L18
M24
2010-06-15
Check Result Action Code
1. Determine if “defects” are dust/
debris on surface of glass panel.
2. Determine if bright pixel
defects exceed the acceptable
number. See
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies.
3. Determine if dark pixel defects
exceed the acceptable number.
See
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies.
Yes Clean glass panel.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Replace display module. L08
No LCD meets bright pixel defect
specications. Go to step 3.
Yes Replace display module. L08
No LCD meets dark pixel defect
specications. Go to step 4.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 66
Page 67
Check Result Action Code
4. Determine if the combination
of bright/dark pixel defects
exceed the acceptable number.
See
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies.
Yes Replace display module. L08
No Explain to user that LCD is
within specications. Do not
replace display module.
Deep Dive: Vertical/Horizontal Lines
Check Result Action Code
1. Horizontal lines may be related
to a failing RAM module. Verify
if video issue only happens
AFTER the Apple logo and the
spinning wheel has appeared.
2. Start with shift key down
(safe mode) to disable system
extensions. Verify if issue still
happens when booting in safe
mode.
Yes Issue only happens AFTER
Apple logo and spinning
wheel appears. Go to step 2.
No Issue happens since startup.
Go to step 5.
Yes Go to step 5.
No No video issue when booting
in safe mode. Go to step 3.
3. Isolate with only one memory
module installed , then with
the other one. Test with
known-good memory. Verify
that issue only happens with
specic RAM module(s).
4. Isolate with one known-good
memory module installed
in one of the memory slots.
Repeat by testing in the other
memory slot with known-good
memory. Verify that issue only
happens with specic memory
slot on logic board.
5. Inspect & verify that display
cable and logic board
connectors are free from any
damage or bent pins.
Yes Replace aected RAM
module.
No Go to step 4
Yes Replace logic board. M07
No Go to step 5
Yes Reseat cable and go to step 6
No -If display cable connector
is damaged, replace display
module and retest.
-If logic board connector is
damaged, replace logic board
and retest.
X02
L18
M24
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 67
Page 68
6. After cable has been inspected
run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for LCD panel presence. If
not found, reseat, verify that
normal video is restored.
Yes Issue resolved by reseating
loose display cable..
No Go to step 7
7. Connect external compatible
DisplayPort display (or
DisplayPort adapter and
display). Verify if correct video
appears on external display.
8. Substitute a known-good
display module to test internal
logic board video output. Verify
that normal video is restored.
Yes Go to step 8
No Replace logic board M04
Yes If it was not replaced earlier,
Replace display module.
No Replace logic board. M04
Deep Dive: Non-Uniform Brightness
Check Result Action Code
1. Determine if brightness
uniformity issue is visible after
display has warmed up for 15
minutes.
2. Inspect & verify that display
cable and logic board
connectors are free from any
damage or bent pins.
Yes Go to step 2.
No Display backlight can take
several minutes to stabilize.
Yes Reseat cable and go to step 3
No -If display cable connector
is damaged, replace display
module and retest.
-If logic board connector is
damaged, replace logic board
and retest.
L05
L18
M24
2010-06-15
3. After cable has been inspected
and reseated verify that an
even brightness uniformity is
restored.
4. Determine if variation in
uniformity appears excessive
when compared to another
similar unit.
Yes Loose LED backlight return
lines connection. Issue xed
by reseating display cable
connection.
No Got to step 4
Yes If it was not replaced earlier,
Replace display module.
No Explain to user that
LCD appears to meet
specications.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 68
L07
Page 69
Defective Camera / Built-in iSight Not Operating Correctly
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Defective Camera
• Camera not detected
• No green LED for camera
• Excessive blooming
• Poor white balance
• Poor focus
• Green image
• Image distortion
1. Check for Software Updates.
2. Verify camera lens and glass panel are clear of
contaminants.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Launch System Proler and
conrm that “Built-in iSight” is
listed under USB High-Speed
Bus.
2. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for all devices presence. If not
found, inspect & verify that
display cable and logic board
connectors are free from any
damage or bent pins.
Yes Camera recognized. Go to
step 3
No Go to step 2.
Yes Reseat LVDS cable and go to
step 3
No -If display cable connector
is damaged, replace display
module and retest.
-If logic board connector is
damaged, replace logic board
and retest.
L18
M24
2010-06-15
3. After cable was reseated, verify
that the iSight is listed in
System Proler.
4. Launch PhotoBooth. Verify that
green camera LED is turning
on and image appears normal.
5. Substitute a known-good
display module to test logic
board to camera connection,
and verify that iSight camera is
operating properly.
Yes Camera recognized. Go to
step 4.
No Go to step 5
Yes Issue resolved..
No Go to step 5.
Yes Replace display module. L17
No Replace logic board. M13
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 69
Page 70
Blank / No Video
Unlikely cause: Power adapter, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, microphone, top case
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Blank / No Video
• No video
• No backlight
1. Check brightness setting
2. Attach known-good supported external display.
3. Boot from Mac OS X install disc that came with
computer.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that boot chime is
present when system restarts.
Reset SMC and clear PRAM
if necessary for proper start
up. Verify that LCD video is
present.
2. Connect known-good
supported external display.
Verify whether image appears
on external display when
system is booted.
Yes Go to step 3.
No Go to step 2.
Yes External display detected by
system. Go to step 3.
No Go to No Video symptom
code ow.
2010-06-15
3. Verify if LCD backlight is on
by looking for faint glow
from display when viewed
in darkened room with
brightness adjusted to full.
4. Shine bright (low heat)
ashlight into the front of LCD.
Verify if an image is being
displayed.
5. Inspect & verify that display
cable and logic board
connectors are free from any
damage or bent pins.
Yes Video signal from system
to external video is OK, LCD
backlight is on. Go to step 5.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Image present but backlight
is not on. Check logic board
connections. Go to step 5.
No Go to No Video symptom.
Yes Reseat cable and go to step 6
No -If display cable connector
is damaged, replace display
module and retest.
-If logic board connector is
damaged, replace logic board
and retest.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 70
L18
M24
Page 71
6. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility ,check for all
devices presence. If missing,
reseat cable and verify that
image is restored.
Yes Loose display cable
connection. Issue resolved.
No Test needed with known-
good display module. Go to
step 7.
7. Substitute a known-good
display module and verify that
internal display connector
works with a known-good
display module.
Yes If it was not replaced earlier,
Replace display module.
No Replace logic board M03
L03
Backlight Issue / No Backlight
Unlikely cause: Power adapter, battery, speaker, optical drive, hard drive, fan microphone, top
case
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Backlight Issue / No Backlight
• Display not illuminated
• Flashing, unstable or non
uniform background lighting
• Poor backlight at some or all
settings
• Check that brightness setting is above
minimum.
• Reset SMC.
• Reset LED backlight controller by pressing
Control Shift Eject keys, then wake up
system back by pressing any keyboard key.
2010-06-15
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Characterize the symptom to
“no backlight” or “backlight
present but with quality/
uniformity issue”. Reset
LED backlight controller by
pressing Control Shift Eject
keys and conrm backlight
presence.
Yes Backlight controller reset
solved the issue.
If backlight is enabled but still
with issue: Go to step 4
No No Backlight: Go to step 2.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 71
Page 72
2. Shine bright (low heat)
ashlight into the front of LCD.
Verify if an image is being
displayed.
Yes Image present but Backlight
is not on. Check display cable
connections. Go to step 3
No Go to step 3.
3. Darken room and verify
backlight by detecting if any
glow is emitted from the
display
4. Inspect & verify that display
cable and logic board
connectors are free from any
damage or bent pins.
5. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for all devices presence. If not
found, reseat cable and verify
that backlight is restored.
6. Substitute a known-good
display module to test logic
board internal video output.
Verify that normal backlight is
restored.
Yes Backlight is operating but
there is no video. Go to No
Video symptom table.
No Go to step 4
Yes Go to step 5
No -If display cable connector
is damaged, replace display
module and retest.
-If logic board connector is
damaged, replace logic board
and retest.
Yes Loose display cable
connection. Issue resolved.
No Go to step 6.
Yes If it was not replaced earlier,
replace display module.
No Backlight fuse may have been
blown. Remove rear vent and
check fuse (see picture on
left). If blown, replace logic
board.
L18
M24
L09
M25
2010-06-15
Noise / Unstable Flickering
Unlikely cause: Top case, battery
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Noise / Unstable Flickering
• Image icker
• Audible noise
1. Verify known-good source sound le not causing
speaker distortion.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 72
Page 73
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify if user’s issue is due to
video ickering coming from
display.
2. Verify display listed in the
System Proler’s Graphics/
Displays device tree is not
disappearing intermittently
(refresh System Proler to
observe).
3. Inspect & verify that display
cable and logic board
connectors are free from any
damage or bent pins.
4. After cable has been inspected
and reseated, verify that
backlight ickering issue is
xed.
Yes Suspected ickering issue, go
to step 2.
No Audible noise issue, go to
step 6.
Yes Power and LCD panel ID are
OK. Go to step 3.
No Go to No Video symptom
code ow.
Yes Reseat cable and go to step 4
No -If display cable connector
is damaged, replace display
module and retest.
-If logic board connector is
damaged, replace logic board
and retest.
Yes Loose display cable
connection. Issue resolved.
No Go to step 5..
L18
M24
5. Substitute a known good
display module to test logic
board backlight output. Verify
that ickering has stopped.
6. Verify the source of the noise
is the electrical as opposed
to mechanical. Audio noise
should not be a concern now
that LCD components are all
solid state devices including
LED backlights.
Yes If it was not replaced earlier,
Replace display module.
No Replace logic board. M25
Yes Noises that are not audible
from the normal user position
are considered acceptable.
Return unit to the user.
No Noise from another source.
Go to Noise/Hum/vibration
symptom table..
L06
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 73
Page 74
Mechanical/Physical Damage
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Mechanical/Physical Damage
• Broken glass
• Broken hinge
• Stripped screw/head
• Stripped screw boss
• Dent or scratch to chassis
1. Determine damage caused by user/technician
environment, accidental damage, or abuse.
2. Inform user/technician that failures/defects of
this kind are not covered by Apple warranties.
Refer to
http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty
Cosmetic Defects
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Cosmetic Defects
• Cracked LCD
• Scorched or melted LCD
• LCD impact damage
1. Determine damage caused by user/technician
environment, accidental damage, or abuse.
2. Inform user/technician that failures/defects of
this kind are not covered by Apple warranties.
Refer to
http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty
2010-06-15
Uncategorized Symptom
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptom
Unable to locate appropriate
symptom code
Verify whether existing symptom code applies to the
issue reported by the user. If not, document reported
symptom and send feedback to smfeedback@apple.
com stating that a suitable symptom code could not
be found.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 74
Page 75
Mass Storage
Hard Drive Read/Write Issue
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Hard Drive Read/Write Issue
Bad Sector/Defective
Drive Formatting Issue
• Cannot save documents
• Read/Write error message
• Hang when accessing or
saving data
1. Boot from Install DVD. Verify S.M.A.R.T. status of
drive using Disk Utility.
2. Repair disk using Disk Utility.
3. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS using Installer.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Start up from Restore DVD
and launch Disk Utility. Is hard
drive available for Disk Utility
to repair?
2. Did Disk Utility mount and
repair hard drive successfully?
Reseat hard drive if necessary.
Yes Go to step 2.
No Go to step 3.
Yes Restart computer. Go to step
6.
No If computer has not been
veried with a known-good
hard drive, go to step 3;
otherwise, go to step 7.
2010-06-15
3. Substitute a known-good
bootable hard drive, does
system start up to desktop?
Yes Reinstall unit’s drive, go to
step 2.
No Continue to use known-
good bootable hard drive to
determine root cause. Go to
step 4.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 75
Page 76
4. After reseating hard drive SATA
and logic board connections,
does known-good hard drive
boot to desktop?
Yes Reinstall unit’s drive, go to
step 2
No Suspect hard drive SATA
cable, go to step 5.
5. Replace hard drive SATA cable
and retest with known-good
hard drive.
6. Did unit’s hard drive start up
successfully?
7. Partition, erase & install Mac OS
on unit’s hard drive. Did install
complete without error and
start up successfully?
8. Replace unit’s hard drive. Does
drive format correctly with a
GUID partition map and install
Mac OS without errors?
Yes Reinstall unit’s drive, go to
step 2.
No Replace logic board. M19
Yes Issue resolved.
No Restore hard drive image; go
to step 7.
Yes Issue resolved
No Hard drive appears to be
defective, go to step 8.
Yes Hard drive replaced. Issue
resolved.
No SATA cable veried or
replaced and new hard drive
installed, replace logic board.
H01
M19
2010-06-15
Hard Drive Not Recognized/Not Mounting
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone, AirPort
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Hard Drive Not Recognized/Not
Mounting or Booting
• Flashing question mark
• Boots to grey screen
• Boots to blue screen
1. Use a known-good mouse. Stuck mouse button
will not allow boot.
2. Boot from Install DVD. Verify S.M.A.R.T. status of
drive using Disk Utility.
3. Repair disk using Disk Utility.
4. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS using Installer.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 76
Page 77
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Boot from Restore DVD and
launch Disk Utility. Verify that
hard drive is available in Disk
Utility to repair?
2. Verify that Disk Utility mounted
and repaired hard drive
successfully. Reseat hard drive
cable if necessary.
3. Substitute a known-good
bootable hard drive, and verify
that computer starts up to
desktop.
4. After reseating SATA and logic
board cable connections, verify
that computer starts up to
desktop with installed knowngood hard drive.
Yes Go to step 2.
No Go to step 3.
Yes Restart computer, go to step
6.
No If computer has not been
veried with a known-good
hard drive, go to step 3;
otherwise, go to step 7.
Yes Install user drive, go to step 2.
No Continue to use known-
good bootable hard drive to
determine root cause. Go to
step 4.
Yes Install user’s drive, go to step
2.
No Suspect hard drive SATA
cable, go to step 5.
5. Replace hard drive SATA cable
and retest with known-good
hard drive.
6. Verify that unit’s hard
drive successfully starts up
computer.
7. Partition, erase & install Mac OS
on unit’s hard drive. Verify that
install completed without error
and that computer starts up
successfully
8. Replace unit’s hard drive. Verify
that replacement drive formats
correctly with a GUID partition
map and installs Mac OS
without errors.
Yes Cable replaced. Install user
drive, go to step 2.
No Replace logic board. M19
Yes Issue resolved.
No Restore unit’s hard drive, go
to step 7.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Hard drive appears to be
defective. Go to step 8.
Yes Issue resolved. H01
No SATA cable veried or
replaced and new hard drive
installed,: replace logic board.
X03
M19
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 77
Page 78
Hard Drive Noisy
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Hard Drive Noisy
• Noise during start up
• Noise during operation
• Noise when drive is copying or
saving data
1. Start up from Install DVD. Verify S.M.A.R.T. status of
hard drive using Disk Utility.
2. Repair disk using Disk Utility.
3. Check for reported noise and compare with
Knowledge Base article “Apple Portables: Hard
Drives and Noise “
http://support.apple.com/kb/TS2354
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Boot from Restore DVD and
launch Disk Utility. Verify that
hard drive is available in Disk
Utility to repair.
2. Repair disk using Disk Utility
and verify that it completes
successfully.
Yes Go to step 2.
No Go to Hard Drive Not
Recognized/Not Mounting.
Yes Restart computer. Go to step
3.
No Go to step 4.
2010-06-15
3. Verify that hard drive is still
noisy.
4. Erase disk and reinstall Mac
OS using Installer. Verify that
process was completed.
Yes Remove hard drive and start
up from external drive to test
fan noise. Go to step 6.
No Issue resolved.
Yes Restart computer. Go to step
3.
No Replace hard drive. Go to step 5.H06
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 78
Page 79
5. After installing new hard drive,
verify that you still hear an
abnormal noise.
Yes Remove hard drive and start
up from external drive to test
fan noise. Go to step 6.
No Issue resolved.
6. After removing hard drive,
verify if the system is still noisy.
7. Install a known-good hard
drive and verify if the noise
level is similar to unit’s hard
drive.
Yes Fan noise or optical drive
noise likely to be the cause.
See ODD Noisy table and Fan
failures/Thermal issues table.
No Go to step 7.
Yes Hard drive noise level is
similar to a known-good
drive and does not require
replacement.
No Replace hard drive. Go to step 5.H06
Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Reject Media
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
2010-06-15
Symptom Quick Check
Optical Drive Won’t Accept/
Reject Media
• Cannot insert a disc into the
drive
• Cannot eject a disc placed into
the drive
1. Use Apple System Proler SATA section to see if
the optical drive appears. If not, see Optical Drive
Not Recognized symptom table.,
2. Restart computer and hold down mouse button
or keyboard eject key to cycle optical drive.
3. Inspect optical drive slot for obstructions
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 79
Page 80
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that optical drive is listed
in the device tree for serial-ATA
devices in System Proler.
2. Verify all connections between
logic board, ex cable, and
optical drive are secure.
Visually inspect cables and
connectors for any debris,
damage, or bent pins and
reseat connections. Verify that
optical drive is now listed in
System Proler.
3. Disconnect optical drive from
logic board and connect a
known-good optical drive and
cable. Verify that optical drive
is now listed in System Proler.
Yes Optical drive has power,
inspect disc acceptance. Go
to step 5.
No Inspect hardware. Go to step
2
Yes Optical drive has power,
inspect disc acceptance. Go
to step 5.
No Replace any damaged cables
and retest. If connections
are good and with no visible
cable damage, go to step 3.
Yes SATA port functional,
reconnect unit’s optical drive
with known-good SATA cable.
Go to step 4.
No Replace logic board. M19
X03
4. Install and test unit’s optical
drive with replacement SATA
ex cable. Verify that optical
drive is now listed in System
Proler.
5. Inspect optical drive slot for
disc insert/eject. Verify that
there is clearance for disc use.
6. Insert known-good disc
and test optical drive for
acceptance of disc. Verify if
disc auto-ejects without being
recognized by Mac OS X.
Yes Changing cable resolved
issue. Replace optical drive
cable.
No Replace optical drive.
(If Mechanical damage found
on optical drive, use symptom
code J05)
Yes Go to step 6.
No Replace damaged optical
drive or top case if it
interferes with disc use.
Yes Replace the optical drive.
(If Mechanical damage is
found on optical drive, use
dierent symptom code
No Go to step 7.
X03
J03
(J05)
J01
X13
J03
(J06)
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 80
Page 81
7. Verify that disc mounts to
desktop.
Yes Go to Eject Test step 8.
No Go to Optical Drive
Read/Write Data Error
troubleshooting page.
8. Verify that disc is ejected
properly from optical drive.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Remove optical drive and test
it with ejection slot above top
case edge, to locate the cause
of non-ejection:
-If due to drive, replace
optical drive.
-If due to top case, reseat
drive and retest. If issue
remains, replace top case if it
interferes with disc ejection.
Optical Drive Read/Write Data Error
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
J02
X13
Symptom Quick Check
Optical Drive Read/Write Data
Error
• Errors when writing optical
media.
• Errors when reading optical
media.
• Hang when accessing or
preparing to write data.
1. Test user’s optical media disc in a known-good
drive of a similar computer to rule out disc issue.
2. Check with known-good discs like the Install discs
that came with the computer.
3. For write issues, check with known-good media
that performs well in another computer and
optical drive of the same type.
4. Check both CD and DVD media. If only one type
of media is producing errors, there is a laser
pickup related issue.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 81
Page 82
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that media is free to spin
without optical drive scraping
edge or surface of media.
2. Verify that optical drive can
read both CD and DVD knowngood media?
3. Reseat cable connections at
logic board and optical drive.
Verify that media is now
recognized and reads reliably.
4. Disconnect optical drive from
logic board and connect a
known-good optical drive and
cable. Verify that media is now
recognized and reads reliably.
Yes Go to step 2.
No Replace optical drive. J03
Yes Go to step 6
No Computer only reading CDs,
or only reading DVD indicates
a laser pickup issue: replace
optical drive.
Optical drive cannot read any
media reliably, go to step 3.
Yes Reseating cable resolved
issue.
No Go to step 4.
Yes SATA port functional,
reconnect optical drive with
known-good SATA cable. Go
to step 5.
No Replace logic board. M19
J03
2010-06-15
5. Test optical drive with knowngood SATA ex cable. Verify
that media is now recognized
and reads/writes reliably.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 82
Yes Cable change resolved issue.
Replace optical drive cable..
No Replace the optical drive.
(If Mechanical damage is
found on optical drive, use
symptom code J05 )
X03
J03
(J05)
Page 83
Optical Drive Not Recognized/Device Not Mounting
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Optical Drive Not Recognized/
Mount
• Discs inject and eject, but do
not appear in Finder
1. Use Apple System Proler ATA section to see if the
optical drive appears.
2. Serial-ATA section of Apple System Proler will
show any media inserted.
3. Check Finder Preferences: General and make sure
“CD’s, DVD’s and iPods” is checked under “Show
these items on the Desktop.”
4. Check both CD and DVD media. If only one type
of media is recognized, there might be a laser
pickup related issue.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Is optical drive listed in the
device tree for SATA devices in
System Proler?
2. Verify all connections between
logic board, ex cable, optical
drive are secure. Visually
inspect cables and connectors
for any debris, damage, or bent
pins and reseat cable. Verify
that optical drive is now listed
in System Proler
Yes Issue resolved.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace any damaged cables
and retest. If connections
are good and with no visible
cable damage, go to step 3.
X03
2010-06-15
3. Disconnect optical drive from
logic board and connect a
known-good optical drive.
Verify that optical drive is now
listed in System Proler.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 83
Yes SATA port functional,
reconnect user’s optical drive
& SATA cable. Go to step 4.
No Replace logic board. M19
Page 84
4. Install and test with
replacement optical drive SATA
ex cable. Verify that optical
drive now is listed in System
Proler.
Yes Cable change resolved issue X03
No Replace the optical drive.
(If mechanical damage is
found on optical drive, use
symptom code J05
Optical Drive Noisy
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
J03
(J05)
Optical Drive Noisy
• Noise during boot
• Noise during operation
• Noise when drive is copying or
writing data
1. Test user’s optical media disc in a known-good
drive of a similar computer to rule out disc issue.
2. Check with known-good discs. Install discs that
came with the computer.
3. Check if any software or rmware update is
available for this model of computer.
4. Check to see if noise occurs without media in
the drive. If so, check for hard drive (H06) and fan
(M18) caused noise.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify if optical drive constantly
seeking or cycling eject
mechanism without an optical
disc installed. Optical drive
should perform only one reset
sequence and rest idle, ready
for media.
Yes Continue and verify with
media, go to step 2.
No Replace optical drive if
continuous activity occurs
with no disc installed.
J04
2010-06-15
2. Insert known good data disc.
Verify that media is free to
spin without scraping edge or
surface of media. Verify disc
does not exceed maximum
thickness specication.
Yes Continue and verify with
media, go to step 3.
No Internal mechanical
interference is aecting
rotational spin of media,
replace optical drive.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 84
J04
Page 85
3. Initial disc handling noise is
normal. Disc spinning and
head seek indicate disc is
mounting to desktop. Seek
noise should settle down once
mounted. Verify that noise is
above normal and related to
seek activity.
Yes Replace optical drive. J04
No Seek noise normal. Go to step
4.
4. Disc spin should cease 30
seconds after mounting data
disc on OS desktop. Verify that
the noise is related to disc spin.
5. Remove the optical drive and
check for the correct seating
of the brackets on the optical
drive and in the top case.
Reinstall drive in unit and
retest. Verify if drive is still
noisy.
6. Eject known good data disc.
Disc handling noise should be
one pop of disc from motor
hub and a motor gear sound
driving disc out of optical
drive. Verify that noise above
normal and related to disc
eject activity or multiple eject
attempts.
7. Disc spin should cease 30
seconds after mounting data
disc on desktop. Media may
be mounting on a defective
internal spindle hub. Verify that
the noise is related to disc spin.
Yes Go to step 5.
No Go to step 6.
Yes Go to step 6.
No Issue resolved. Optical drive
was not properly mounted in
(J05)
enclosure. (Possible physical
damage to optical drive.)
Yes Replace optical drive. J02
No Go to step 7.
Yes Replace optical drive. J04
No Noise does not appear to be
related to optical drive.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 85
Page 86
Optical Drive Not Performing to Specs
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Optical Drive Not Performing to
Specs
Read or write speeds slower than
expected.
1. Test user’s optical media disc in a known-good
drive of a similar computer to rule out disc issue.
2. Check with known-good discs—Install discs that
came with the computer.
3. For disc write issues, check with known-good
media that performs well in another computer
and drive of the same type
4. Check if any software or rmware update is
available for this model of computer.
5. Check both CD and DVD media. If only one type
of media is producing errors, there might be a
laser pickup related issue.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that optical drive can
read known-good CD and DVD
media.
Yes Go to step 5
No Computer only reading CDs,
or only reading DVD indicates
a laser pickup issue: replace
optical drive.
J03
2010-06-15
2. Reseat cable connections at
logic board and optical drive.
Verify that media is now
recognized and reads reliably.
3. Disconnect optical drive from
logic board and connect a
known-good drive and cable.
Verify that media is now
recognized and reads reliably.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 86
Optical drive cannot read any
media reliably. Go to step 2.
Yes Reseating cable resolved
issue.
No Go to step 3.
Yes SATA port functional,
reconnect unit’s optical drive
with known-good SATA cable.
Go to step 4.
No Replace logic board. M19
Page 87
4. Test unit’s optical drive with
replacement SATA ex cable.
Verify that media is now
recognized ,reads/writes
reliably and performs to specs..
Yes Cable change resolved issue.
No Replace optical drive.
Uncategorized Symptom
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Replace unit’s cable..
(If Mechanical damage found
on optical drive, use symptom
code J05)
X03
J03
(J05)
Uncategorized Symptom
Unable to locate appropriate
symptom code
Verify whether existing symptom code applies to the
issue reported by the user. If not, document reported
symptom and send feedback to smfeedback@apple.
com stating that a suitable symptom code could not
be found.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 87
Page 88
Input/Output Devices
USB Port Does Not Recognize Known Input Devices
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
USB Port Does Not Recognize
Known Devices
USB-wired keyboard/mouse or
USB ash drive not recognized
1. Check for latest software and rmware updates
available for computer.
2. Use Apple System Proler to verify the computer
recognizes the USB bus.
3. Test USB port with known good Apple keyboard
or mouse.
4. Verify any USB hubs have sucient power.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Reset SMC and clear PRAM.
Verify that USB device is
correctly recognized.
2. Verify that a known-good
connected USB device is
receiving power from USB port.
Note: rst device to draw more
than 500mA will get up to
1000mA, all others will still be
limited to 500mA.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Go to step 3.
No Replace logic board. M15
2010-06-15
3. Verify that unit’s USB device
is working on a known-good
computer.
4. Verify that the latest Maccompatible USB software
driver is installed for this USB
device.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 88
Yes Go to step 4.
No Contact USB device
manufacturer for support/
service.
Yes Replace logic board. M15
No Obtain an up to date Mac-
compatible USB driver for the
device.
Page 89
Built-in Keyboard Does Not Work Properly
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Built-in Keyboard Does Not Work
Properly
• Keystrokes not recognized
• Locks up
• Displayed characters don’t
match
1. In System Preferences: International: Input Menu,
enable Keyboard Viewer. Select Show Keyboard
Viewer from the Input Menu in the menu bar. Test
the keyboard.
2. Conrm correct keyboard layout is selected.
3. Update to the latest system software/rmware.
4. Press Caps Lock. If Caps Lock light turns on, this
conrms a partial connection to the logic board.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. If specic keys are not working,
check if they are physically
broken.
2. Reseat trackpad and keyboard
ex cable to logic board. Verify
that all keys are functional.
Yes Repair defective key if
possible or replace top case;
retest all keys.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Go to step 3.
K16
2010-06-15
3. Disconnect and verify that
keyboard ex cable is in good
condition (no delamination or
torn cable end, no missing or
cracked tracks).
4. Reseat cable and check that
ex cable end is fully inserted
and aligned with connector
on logic board, and that
connector lock is closed.
Verify that keyboard functions
properly. Reseat cable; verify
with ASD that all keys are
functional.
5. Verify that all keys are
functional using ASD.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 89
Yes Go to step 4.
No Replace top case. Go to step 5. K01
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace top case. Go to step 5. K01
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace logic board. M15
Page 90
Specic Keys Don’t Work
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, LCD, optical drive, hard drive, fan, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Specic Keys Don’t Work
• Keycap broken
• Key switch broken
• Sticky key
• Key pressed not recognized
1. Determine if damage caused by user/technician
environment, accidental damage, or abuse.
2. Inform user/technician that failures/defects of this
kind are not covered by Apple warranties. Refer to
http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty
3. Inspect keycap and remove any trapped debris.
4. If the keycap is loose, check if clasp is still intact
and reattach it.
5. Keycap replacement if possible; otherwise, repair
is a top case replacement. Use the following
symptom code:
- Inoperative keys (K01)
- Sticky keys (K05).
Built-in Keyboard Is Not Recognized
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
2010-06-15
Symptom Quick Check
Built-in Keyboard Is Not
Recognized
• Keystrokes not recognized
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 90
1. Reset SMC.
2. Press Caps Lock. If Caps Lock light turns on, this
conrms a partial connection to the logic board.
3. In System Preferences: International: Input Menu,
enable Keyboard Viewer. Select Show Keyboard
Viewer from the Input Menu in the menu bar.
Test the keyboard.
Page 91
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that you see “Apple
Internal Keyboard/Trackpad”
listed under USB hardware
devices of Apple System
Proler.
2. Reset SMC and verify if Apple
Internal Keyboard/Trackpad is
now seen in the USB devices
list of Apple System Proler.
3. Disconnect and verify that
keyboard ex cable is in good
condition (no delamination or
torn cable end, no missing or
cracked tracks).
4. Reseat cable and check that
ex cable end is fully inserted
and aligned with connector
on logic board, and that
connector lock is closed. Verify
that keyboard now functions
properly.
Yes Go to step 3.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Go to step 3.
No Replace logic board. M15
Yes Go to step 4.
No If damage is found replace
top case. Go to step 5.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace top case. Check LSI
sensors on user’s top case,
and use following codes:
- keyboard not recognized; LSI
not triggered
- keyboard not recognized: LSI
triggered. Go to step 5.
K16
K11
K11
K90
5. Verify that all keys are
functional using ASD.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace logic board. M15
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 91
Page 92
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Track Properly
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Track
Properly
• Cursor movement is random,
uneven, or jumpy.
• Cursor hangs or stalls along
path.
1. Check for environmental factors such as humidity,
hand lotion or jewelry. Check if user is touching
the trackpad simultaneously with both hands.
2. Clean the trackpad surface (with the computer
o) using a clean, dry, lint free cloth.
3. Apply hand palm onto the full surface of trackpad
to reset it.
4. Make sure all software and rmware updates have
been applied.
5. If the issue occurs when system is running from
the power adapter, use a grounded power cord
with the power adapter.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that you see the trackpad
continuously listed under USB
in Apple System Proler.
Yes Trackpad communicating to
system. Go to step 5.
No Go to step 2
2010-06-15
2. Verify whether the trackpad
looks damaged.
3. Reseat the trackpad ex cable
on the logic board. Then verify
trackpad functionality.
4. Verify whether the trackpad
connector on the logic board is
damaged.
5. In System Preferences:
Universal Access, turn o
special Keyboard and Mouse &
Trackpad settings. Then verify
trackpad functionality.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 92
Yes Replace trackpad. Go to step 6.K16
No Go to step 3.
Yes Loose cable. Issue resolved.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Replace logic board. M24
No Go to step 5.
Yes Settings issue resolved.
No Go to step 6.
Page 93
6. Verify if a grounding strap is
present between one screw of
the trackpad and the system
chassis.
Yes Go to step 7
No Refer to the Trackpad
Grounding Strap section of
Additional Procedures to
install a grounding strap
(Apple part # 922-9340) and
retest.
7. Install a known-good trackpad
and verify that it works on
customer’s computer.
Yes Replace unit’s trackpad
No Replace logic board. M16
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Work
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Work
• Cursor does not move.
• Select button of trackpad
inoperable
• Multiple touch features
inoperable
1. Check for environmental factors such as humidity,
hand lotion or jewelry. Check if user is touching
the trackpad simultaneously with both hands.
2. Clean the trackpad surface (with the computer
powered o) using a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
3. Make sure all software and rmware updates have
been applied.
according to symptom found:
- No trackpad response
- Trackpad cursor not tracking
properly
- Trackpad button issues
K02
K12
K13
2010-06-15
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that you see the
trackpad continuously listed
with USB devices in Apple
System Proler.
2. Check trackpad for proper
alignment and normal clicking
motion and verify if trackpad
looks damaged.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 93
Yes Go to step 5.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Replace damaged trackpad K16
No Go to step 3.
Page 94
3. Reseat the trackpad ex cable
to the logic board. Then verify
trackpad functionality.
Yes Loose cable. Issue resolved.
No Go to step 4.
4. Verify whether trackpad
connector on the logic board is
damaged.
5. In System Preferences:
Universal Access, turn o
special Keyboard and Mouse
& Trackpad settings. Set for
normal use, enable and test
multiple touch features. Then
verify trackpad functionality.
6. Does the select button click?
Check trackpad for proper
alignment and normal clicking
motion.
7. If the trackpad suers from
jumpy cursor behavior, verify
if a grounding strap is present
between one screw of the
trackpad and the system
chassis.
Yes Replace logic board. M24
No Go to step 5.
Yes Settings issue resolved.
No Go to step 6
Yes All trackpad issues resolved.
No Go to step 7
Yes Go to step 8
No Refer to the Trackpad
Grounding Strap section of
Additional Procedures to
install a grounding strap
(Apple part # 922-9340) and
retest.
8. Inspect for triggered red LSI
next to trackpad set screw.
Verify that a known-good
trackpad works.
Yes Replace trackpad according
to symptom found.
- No mouse/trackpad
response
- Trackpad cursor not tracking
properly
- Trackpad button issues
- Trackpad LSI sensor
K02
K12
K13
K90
triggered
No Replace logic board. M16
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 94
Page 95
Built-in Speaker Has No Audio
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Built-in Speaker Has No Audio
Can’t hear any audio from built-in
speakers
1. Make sure all software updates have been
applied.
2. Check in System Preferences: Sound: Output that
sound output is set to “Internal Speakers”.
3. Use the F12 volume key to set the sound to
maximum.
4. Reset PRAM.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Check System Preferences:
Sound: Output and verify that
no external speakers, “Digital
Out,” or “Headphones” are
being reported connected
when there is none present.
2. With known-good headphones
or speakers, plug them in/out
to the audio output jack for
several cycles. Verify that you
get audio through external
headphones/speakers when
connected, and that you get
audio switched to Internal
speakers when disconnected..
Yes Audio-out port is not
damaged. Go to step 3.
No Go to step 2
Yes Go to step 4
No Loosen the logic board screws
and slide the logic board so
that edge connectors are all
aligned to enclosure, then
tighten back the screws. Go
to step 3.
2010-06-15
3. With known-good headphones
or speakers, verify that you get
audio through headphones or
external speakers. .
4. Disconnect known-good
headphones or speakers.
Verify that you now get audio
through internal speakers.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 95
Yes Go to step 4.
No Replace logic board. M09
Yes Go to step 5.
No No audio coming from any of
the three internal speakers.
Replace logic board.
M09
Page 96
5. Using balance slider in System
Preferences: Sound: Audio Out,
verify that all/left/center/right
audio speakers working.
Yes Internal Audio Out is
functional,.
No Go to step 6.
6. Verify that aected speaker
connector is properly inserted
and that cable does not
interfere with other elements
and is free from damage.
Yes Replace failing rear speaker
or replace top case for left or
right speaker failure.
No Reseat speaker cable or
replace damaged speaker.
Distorted Sound from Internal Speaker
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Distorted Sound from Internal
Speaker
• Distorted audio
1. Reset PRAM.
2. Adjust sound output and level in System
Preferences: Sound: Output, and use the Balance
to locate a left, right, or woofer speaker distortion
source.
X08
X08
3. Compare the same sound and same settings
against another unit to make sure the sound is
actually distorting.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Comparing internal speakers
with headphones, verify if
distortion occurs on both
headphones and internal
speakers.
Yes Audio source or gain issue.
Reset PRAM, adjust sound
level in System Preferences:
Sound: Output, and retest
with known-good audio
source and external speakers.
Go to step 5.
No Internal speaker issue. Go to
step 2.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 96
Page 97
2. Use the Sound Output system
preference to test the left
and right speakers. If lower
bass notes are distorted,
right speaker/subwoofer
may be defective. Verify that
all speakers’ sound is free of
distortion, sounding clear and
loud.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Adjust volume to test full
range of volume settings. Go
to step 3.
3. Verify that aected speaker
connector is properly inserted
and that its cable is free from
damage and is not interfering
with other elements.
4. Verify that rear speaker
membrane is free from dust or
debris, and speaker membrane
is not deformed/damaged.
5. Verify left and right speakers
are free from damage and do
not create unwanted distortion
with sound at full volume.
6. According to system serial
number identication, check
that logic board model
matches the top case speakers
model.
Yes Go to step 4.
No Reseat speaker cable or
replace damaged rear
speaker. Go to step 5.
Yes Go to step 5.
No Clean any dust or debris. Go
to step 5.
If membrane is damaged,
replace rear speaker or
replace top case for damaged
left/right speaker(s).
Yes All speakers work at full
volume; issue resolved.
No Go to step 6.
Yes Go to step 7.
No Replace incorrect part with
correct model:
-logic board if incorrect
model
-top case if incorrect model
X09
X09
M09
X09
2010-06-15
7. Check if headphone sound has
distortion.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 97
Yes Replace logic board. M09
No Replace top case for speaker
X09
defects.
Page 98
Uncategorized Symptom
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptom
Unable to locate appropriate
symptom code
Verify whether existing symptom code applies
to the issue reported by the customer. If not,
document reported symptom and send feedback
to smfeedback@apple.com stating that a suitable
symptom code could not be found.
2010-06-15
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 98
Page 99
Mechanical Issues: Thermals and Enclosure
Reset/Power Button Stuck
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Reset/Power Button Stuck
• System will not power on
• System sounds bootROM
unlock tone (a long extended
tone) during startup
• System automatically starts up
repeatedly
1. Diagnose stuck button with SMC keyboard reset
sequence
2. Check for issue occurrence on battery and on AC
power
3. If on battery only, check battery using Notebook
Battery and Adapter Diagnostic
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Reset SMC using keyboard
3 keys and power button.
MagSafe LED can verify SMC
reset. Momentary stop of
battery charging will indicate
SMC reset, orange LED will go
green momentarily then return
to orange.
Yes Keyboard reset works while
holding 3 keys and toggling
power button, multiple press
and release of power button
works to show power button
not stuck or xed.
No SMC keyboard reset not
working, suggests power
button is open circuit or stuck
down. Go to step 2.
2010-06-15
2. Disconnect battery and AC
power for 30 seconds to
perform a manual SMC reset.
Apply AC power. Verify that
power button works when
pressed.
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) — Symptom Charts — Mechanical Issues: Thermals and Enclosure 99
Yes SMC restored from power
removal sequence. Power
button now working properly.
No Power button stuck or open.
Connect known-good power
supply and go to step 3.
Page 100
3. Inspect keyboard ex cable for
loose or damaged connections.
Align and reseat ex cable to
ensure proper connections.
Verify that power button now
works correctly.
Yes Cable reseat restored power
button operation.
No Power button still appears to
be stuck or open. Go to step
4.
4. Use a jeweler’s atblade
screwdriver to assert power
on by touching power-on
switch pads on logic board
(see picture on left). Verify
that system powers on when
shorting power-button pads.
5. Disconnect the internal
keyboard ex cable and assert
power-on switch pads on logic
board. Removing top case
power button from circuit
should free on-board switch
to work properly.. Verify that
system powers on.
Yes System powers on indicating
No Power button circuit appears
Yes On board power-on switch
No Go to No Power symptom
System Runs Hot
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
X14
top case power on key circuit
is open. Replace top case for
open power button.
to be closed suggesting a
stuck power button. Go to
step 5.
X14
pads now starts the system.
Replace top case due to stuck
power button.
chart.
2010-06-15
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
System Runs Hot
• System feels very warm
• Fan not working
• Fan running at full speed
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2009) — Symptom Charts — Mechanical Issues: Thermals and Enclosure 100
1. Verify the computer operating on a at, hard
surface with no blocked vents.
2. Verify the computer is not running hotter than
expected for normal operation. If possible,
compare to a similarly congured computer.
3. Reset SMC.
4. Inspect fan performance
5. Run AHT for thermal sensor test.
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