Apple MacBook 15 late 2008 Service Manual
Apple Technician Guide
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)
Updated: 2010-06-15
Apple Inc.
© 2008 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
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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.
Please send feedback to smfeedback2@apple.com.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)
Contents
Manual Updates 8
Updated 15 June 2010 8
Updated 14 May 2010 8
Updated 08 February 2010 8
Updated 3 December 2009 8
Updated 16 November 2009 8
Updated 01 July 2009 9
Updated 17 June 2009 9
Updated 15 June 2009 9
Updated 1 June 2009 9
Updated 14 April 2009 9
Updated 18 March 2009 9
Updated 3 March 2009 10
Updated 17 December 2008 10
Updated 14 November 2008 11
Updated 21 October 2008 11
Manual introduced 14 October 2008 11
Basic
Overview 13
Identifying Features 13
Product Congurations 14
Serial Number Location 15
Serial Number On Top Case 15
Transferring the Serial Number 15
General Information 16
Required Tools 16
The Glass Panel 17
Keycap Replacement 18
Troubleshooting
General Troubleshooting 20
Update System Software 20
Apple Service Diagnostics 20
Test Points 20
Troubleshooting Theory 20
Hardware vs. Software 21
Clamshell Service Diagnostic Read Me 21
Apple Hardware Test 22
Functional Overview 23
Block Diagram, MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 24
Liquid Submersion Indicators 25
Common Reset Procedures 25
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies 27
Display Hinge Behavior 28
Symptom Charts 29
Startup and Power Issues 29
No Power 29
Won’t Start Up 32
Intermittent Shutdown 35
No Video/Bad Video 40
Battery Isn’t Recognized or Won’t Charge 43
Kernel Panic/System Crashes 46
Battery Run Time Too Short 49
Won’t Run on Power Adapter Alone 50
Power Adapter Issue 51
Noise / Hum / Vibration 52
Burnt Smell / Odor 54
Battery Leaking or Swollen 55
Uncategorized Symptom 55
Communications 56
Ethernet Port/Device Issue 56
AirPort/Bluetooth: Defective Wireless Devices 58
No/Poor Wireless Signal 60
Bluetooth Wireless Input Device Loses Connection 61
AirPort Card: Kernel Panic 63
Wireless Performance Issue / Slow Connection 65
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair 67
Uncategorized Symptom 69
Display 70
Display Anomalies 70
Defective Camera / Built-in iSight Not Operating Correctly 75
Backlight Issue / No Backlight 77
Noise / Unstable Flickering 78
Mechanical/Physical Damage 79
Cosmetic Defects 80
Uncategorized Symptom 80
Mass Storage 81
Hard Drive Read/Write Issue 81
Hard Drive Not Recognized/Not Mounting 82
Hard Drive Noisy 84
Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Reject Media 85
Optical Drive Read/Write Data Error 87
Optical Drive Not Recognized/Mount 89
Optical Drive Noisy 90
Optical Drive Not Performing to Specs 92
Uncategorized Symptom 93
Input/Output Devices 94
USB Port Does Not Recognize Known Devices 94
Built-in Keyboard Does Not Work Properly 95
Specic Keys Don’t Work 96
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Work 97
Built-in Keyboard Has Dim or No Keyboard Backlight 99
Built-in Keyboard Is Not Recognized 100
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Track Properly 101
Apple Remote Inoperable 102
Built-in Speaker Has No Audio 103
Distorted Sound from Internal Speaker 104
Express Card Will Not Insert Into Slot 106
Express Card Not Recognized By System 107
FireWire Port Not Recognizing Known Devices 108
Uncategorized Symptom 108
Mechanical Issues: Thermals and Enclosure 109
Reset/Power Button Stuck 109
System Runs Hot 110
Uncategorized Symptom 112
Take Apart
General Information 114
Connector Types on Logic Board 114
Access Door 117
Battery 119
Removal 120
Replacement 120
Hard Drive Bracket 122
Removal 123
Replacement 124
Hard Drive 125
Removal 126
Replacement 128
Reinstalling Software that Came with the Computer 130
Installing Applications 130
Bottom Case 131
Bottom Case Information 133
Memory 134
Removal 135
Replacement 136
Midwall 137
Removal 138
Replacement 139
Battery Connector Cover 140
Battery Indicator Light Board 142
Removal 143
Replacement 143
Battery Indicator Cable 144
Removal 145
Replacement 145
Camera/AirPort/BT Cable Guide 146
LVDS Cable Guide 148
Display Assembly 150
Replacement 154
Display Hinge Behavior 154
Display Clutch Cover 155
Removal 156
Replacement 157
AirPort Card 159
Removal 160
Replacement 161
Antenna Board 164
Removal 165
Replacement 165
Optical Drive 166
Replacement 169
Optical Drive Flex Cable 170
Right Speaker / Subwoofer 172
Hard Drive Connector Cable 174
Removal 175
Replacement 176
Fans 177
Logic Board 179
Heatsink 186
Removal 187
Replacement 188
Trackpad 190
Removal 191
Replacement 194
Battery Power Cable 199
Left Speaker 201
Microphone 204
MagSafe Board 206
Center Bracket 208
Cable Clip for AirPort Card 210
HD Front Bracket/Flex Cable with IR and Sleep LED 211
Express Card Cage 215
Kensington Lock 217
Top Case 219
Removal 220
Replacement 220
Top Case Information 221
Views
Exploded Views 223
Main Assembly 1 223
Main Assembly 2 224
Display Assembly 225
External Views 226
Front View 226
Port View 227
Screw Chart 228
Screw Location Diagrams 230
Bottom Case Screws 230
Top Case to Display Assembly Screws 231
Main Modules to Top Case Screws 232
Manual 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 14 May 2010
Basics:
• General Information: Keycap Replacement: Service packages of 78 replacement keycaps are
now available in the U.S. and Canada (U.S. version keyboard only) for designated MacBook
and MacBook Pro computers.
Troubleshooting:
• Troubleshooting: I/O Symptom Chart: Built-in Keyboard Does Not Work Properly: Deep Dive:
Action: Step 1 updated.
• Troubleshooting: I/O Symptom Chart: Specic Keys Don’t Work: Quick Check: Step 5 updated.
Updated 08 February 2010
Take Apart:
• Bottom Case: Added section with graphics called “Bottom Case Information” that discusses
two catches that are no longer present on current production bottom cases
• Logic Board: Added information in step 11 about I/O bracket and screws that are no longer
required with current production top cases
• Top Case: Added section with graphic called “Top Case Information” that discusses a bracket
that is no longer present on current production top cases
Updated 3 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 16 November 2009
Basic:
• General Information: Required Tools: Changed Torx T6 screwdriver to require one with a
large-diameter handle for a better grip on tight screws
2010-06-15
Take Apart:
MacBook (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — Manual Updates 8
• Display Assembly: Added replacement note about installing foam gasket; revised “Tools” to
specify a Torx T6 screwdriver with a large-diameter handle for a better grip on tight screws
• Logic Board: Added replacement note about installing foam gasket.
Updated 01 July 2009
Take Apart:
• Display Assembly, Optical Drive, and the Logic Board chapters were updated with
information about the shim located behind the camera cable connector. If the shim is not
replaced during reassembly, the camera cable could work loose, resulting in no video.
• A replacement shim is now included with replacement logic boards.
Updated 17 June 2009
Take Apart:
• Display Assembly chapter was updated with a topic on “Display Hinge Behavior.”
Troubleshooting:
• General Information chapter was updated with a topic on “Display Hinge Behavior.”
Updated 15 June 2009
Take Apart:
• Revised wording on Replacement step 3 in the AirPort Card chapter.
Updated 1 June 2009
Take Apart:
• Added TrackPad procedure.
• Logic Board: Removed reference to MagSafe screws in graphic, added note to alert
techs not to remove MagSafe screws during logic board removal.
Views:
• Added TrackPad kit (922-9008) to exploded view diagram
Updated 14 April 2009
Troubleshooting:
• Display/Display Anomalies: Deep Dive: Vertical/Horizontal Lines table added with
graphics showing symptom.
Take Apart:
• Front Bracket/IR/Sleep Indicator cable: Updated procedure, with new text and cable
connector graphics
• Logic Board: Updated procedure with IR/Sleep cable connector caution.
Updated 18 March 2009
2010-06-15
Troubleshooting:
• General Troubleshooting: Added information on Apple Hardware Test. There are two
MacBook (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — Manual Updates 9
versions of Apple Hardware Test (AHT) for the MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008). To
identify which version of AHT to use, check the third, fourth, and fth digits in the
system serial number
• Intermittent Shutdown: Added table “Troubleshooting Shutdown Causes”
Take Apart:
• MagSafe Board: Updated removal procedure and added graphic to port test using
unplugged power adapter cable
• Logic Board: Updated cable disconnect procedure (step 8) and added new graphic in
step 13
• Optical drive: Updated graphic showing a shim next to connector on AirPort/
Bluetooth/camera cable
• Front Bracket/IR/Sleep Indicator cable: Updated removal procedure, to remove
trackpad ex cable rst, before disconnecting the IR/Sleep cable from the logic board.
Updated 3 March 2009
General Information:
• New “Replacement Caution” graphics added to Thin, Multi-Pin Horizontal Insert topic
• New topic added: Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies
Take Apart:
• Mag Safe: Replacement Note added. Check the port connection by plugging in a
disconnected power adapter cable. If the MagSafe port is o center, the cable will not
plug in securely, and you must reinstall the MagSafe board.
• Logic Board: New text and graphics added showing a shim and a new EMI gasket on
the AirPort/Camera/Bluetooth cable.
2010-06-15
Troubleshooting:
• Updated links in Deep Dive: Pixel Anomalies table
Views:
• Added part numbers to exploded views
• Added two new part numbers to Screw Chart, 922-8994 and 922-8995
Updated 17 December 2008
• General Information:
• Corrected link to Knowledge Base article 50020
• Added Apple Service Diagnostics and Apple Hardware Test diagnostic versions
• Block Diagram: updated memory to DDR3 and Bluetooth to 2.1
• General Troubleshooting
• Added Apple Service Diagnostic heading and a sensor chart with name and location
of sensors
• Removed reference to Knowledge Base article HT3221
• Updated text to use a tweezer to insert locking-lever ex cables
• Symptom Charts
• Updated Intermittent Shutdown/Deep Dive/Step 6/Yes Action and Code changed from
X03 to M08
MacBook (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — Manual Updates 10
• Updated Display/Blank/No Video/added “Unlikely Cause”
• Updated Display/Backlight Issue/No Backlight/added “Unlikely Cause”
• Updated Display/Noise/ Unstable Flickering/added “Unlikely Cause”
• Updated Display/Added new symptoms for Backlight Issue / No Backlight
• Updated InPut/Output Devices/ Specic Keys Don’t Work /added “Ulikely Cause”
• Take Apart
• Battery: added note to seat the battery connector
• Bottom case: added 2 replacement steps
• Memory: added additional removal information on step 2
• Logic board: updated graphic in step 7; Removal: added screw sizes in step 8, reword
camera cable to Camera/AirPort/Bluetooth cable
• Heatsink: added black stick to step 1, added screw part number to step 2.
• HD font bracket/IR/sleep LED: updated graphic in step 4
• AirPort card: updated graphic in replacement step 1, noted using a black stick
• AirPort Antenna board: added removal using a black stick; Replacement: added new
graphic showing pink thermal pad on AirPort card.
• Display assembly: added important note reminding technician to install a new thermal
pad on the AirPort card whenever the display assembly is replaced and removed
replacement note on step 8
• Battery Indicator Cable: added screw part number on step 3
• Camera Cable Guide: Step 2, renamed cable as Camera, AirPort and Bluetooth cable
• Fans: updated screws, 4 identical (922-8754) and 2 longer (near the ODD, no 922-xxxx
number oered yet).
• Exploded View
• Added international AirPort Extreme/Airmac part numbers
Updated 14 November 2008
• Take Apart: Added important replacement step in AirPort Card chapter alerting
technicians to check that the AirPort cable is inserted in the proper orientation into the
AirPort Card connector. If the cable is inserted backwards it will damage the logic board.
• Troubleshooting: Updated Burnt Smell/Odor symptom. Added step 3 in the Quick Check to
check AirPort Card cable orientation.
Updated 21 October 2008
• Updated Features and Specs
• Take Apart: Reorganized topic sequence following Display Assembly chapter
• Added Caution notes to the Display Assembly and HD Front Bracket/IR/Sleep Cable
chapters.
• Added important replacement note to Logic board section about plugging in audio cable
when main logic board is not mounted into top case.
• Added Replacement Troubleshooting tip to HD Front Bracket/IR/Sleep Cable chapter to
reseat the IR/Sleep Cable if the system is having trouble going to sleep or stays asleep.
Manual introduced 14 October 2008
2010-06-15
MacBook (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — Manual Updates 11
Apple Technician Guide
Basic
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)
© 2008 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Overview
2010-06-15
The MacBook (15-inch, Late 2008) computer features both the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M
integrated graphics processor and a high-performance NVIDIA 9600 GT graphics processor.
Multi-Touch trackpad, and aluminum body. Refer to more features below.
Identifying Features
The main features and service dierences include:
• Aluminum unibody enclosure, machined from a single piece of aluminum
• Ultrathin 15-inch LED-backlit glossy display, 1440 by 900 pixels
• Mini DisplayPort connector
• Express Card slot, 34mm
• Battery indicator button on left side
• Illustrations for removing the battery, hard drive, and memory cards are pictured on the
inner side of the access door.
• Product identication label is on top case inside front edge, visible when the access door
and battery are removed.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — Overview 13
Product Congurations
The following table shows the MacBook (15-inch, Late 2008) model congurations at
introduction:
Feature Better (MB470) Best (MB471)
Intel Core 2 Duo processor 2.4 GHz 3MB sharedL2
2.53 GHz 6MB shared L2
1066MHz frontside bus
Graphics NVIDIA GeForce 9400M
(MCP79) + NVIDIA GeForce
9600M GT 256MB VRAM
Memory, DDR3 1066, SO-DIMMs 2 GB (2 x 1 GB) 4 GB (2 x 2 GB)
Hard Drive, Serial ATA 100 5400
rpm
Optical Drive (SATA) 8x DL Super, 9.5 mm 8x DL Super, 9.5 mm
Housing Aluminum Aluminum
Display 15.4-inch glass LCD, 1440 x 990 pixels, LED backlight,
I/O USB: 2- USB 2.0 (1 high powered)
2.5” SATA, 250 GB, 5400
Option: up to 320GB at 7200
rpm or 128GB SSD
glossy nish
FireWire: 1-FW800
Video I/O: Mini Display Port
2.8 GHz 6 MB L2 CTO
1066MHz frontside bus
NVIDIA GeForce 9400M
(MCP79) + NVIDIA
GeForce 9600M GT
512MB VRAM
2.5”, 320 GB SATA , 5400
Option: up to 320GB at
7200 rpm or 128GB SSD
2010-06-15
Audio I/O: Combo digital.analog in, Combo digital/
analog/iPhone headset out, Microphone, Stereo speakers
with subwoofer
Camera: Wave 4 camera (f2.4, 3 micron pixel (640x480))
Other: IR, Battery Indicator Light, 34mm Express card
Keyboard Backlight
Battery Lithium-polymer battery, up to 5 hours
Power Adapter 85W MagSafe Power Adapter
Note About Images in This Manual
Because a pre-production or very similar model was used for most of the images shown in
this manual, 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.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — Overview 14
Serial Number Location
Serial Number On Top Case
Remove the access door and battery to see the serial number on the inside front wall of the top
case.
2010-06-15
Transferring the Serial Number
Before installing the replacement top case, transfer the serial number to the replacement
top case. Peel up the original serial number label with a jeweler’s at blade screw driver and
transfer it to the inside edge of the replacement top case (see arrow for location).
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — Serial Number Location 15
General Information
Required Tools
Caution: To prevent scratches or other cosmetic damage to the computer housing, use a soft
cloth as a protective layer when removing and installing the external screws.
The following tools are required to service the computer:
• Clean, soft, lint-free cloth
• ESD wrist strap and mat
• Magnetic Phillips #0 screwdriver
• Magnetic Phillips #00 screwdriver (preferably with a long handle)
• Torx T6 screwdriver with a large-diameter handle for a better grip on tight screws
• Tri-lobe #0 screwdriver (922-8991), for trackpad removal
• Black stick (Apple probe tool, part number 922-5065) or other nonconductive nylon or
plastic atblade tool
• Thermal grease (Apple thermal compound syringe, part number 922-7144)
• Alcohol wipes
• Foam wedge xture for display assembly removal (part number 922-8779)
• Kapton tape
• Tweezers, ESD safe, extra ne points, for at cable replacement
Refer to Knowledge Base article “Hand Tools for Desktop and Portable Repairs--AP/CA/EU/JP/
LA/US” to purchase tools:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=500200
In addition, the following software programs are required for troubleshooting:
• Apple Service Diagnostic (ASD), version 3S125
• Apple Hardware Test, version 3A148
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — General Information 16
The Glass Panel
Warning: The glass panel for this model is not a serviceable part. If the glass is broken or
scratched, replace the display assembly. Attempting to remove the glass can permanently
shatter the display face and damage other parts.
To clean the glass panel, use the Apple polishing cloth (922-8245) and iKlear Apple Polish or
Brillianize anti-static spray cleaning solution. Alternatively, IPA (isopropyl alcohol) can be used.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — General Information 17
Keycap Replacement
Service packages of 78 replacement keycaps are now available in the U.S. and Canada (U.S.
version keyboard only) for designated MacBook and MacBook Pro computers. The packages
allow you to replace individual keycaps rather than the entire top case.
There are four dierent keycap packages, based on the color of the key and the type of
keyboard (version D and S).
Part number Key color Keyboard
922-9277 Black Version D
922-9279 Black Version S
922-9278 White Version D
922-9280 White Version S
For step-by-step instructions, refer to the relevant support article: “MacBook/MacBook Pro:
Black Keycap Replacement” (HT4002) or “MacBook: White Keycap Replacement” (HT4003).
For an overview of the dierences among keycap procedures, refer to “MacBook/MacBook
Pro: Keycap Replacement Matrix” (HT4001).
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — General Information 18
Apple Technician Guide
Troubleshooting
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)
© 2008 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
General Troubleshooting
Update System Software
Important: Whenever possible before beginning troubleshooting, ensure the latest software
and rmware updates have been applied.
Apple Service Diagnostics
Run Apple Service Diagnostic to determine if any of the thermal sensors are malfunctioning.
Replace any failing sensors. See chart below for correlation between error code and part.
Name Location
TC0D Logic Board
TC0P Logic Board
TG0D Logic Board
TG0H Logic Board
TG0P Logic Board
TG0T Logic Board
TG1H Heatsink
Th2H Logic Board
TN0D Logic Board
TN0P Logic Board
Tm0P Logic Board
Ts0P Trackpad ex
TB0T Battery pack
TB1T Battery pack
TB2T Battery pack
TB3T Battery pack
2010-06-15
Test Points
There is no silkscreen text on nal production logic boards. Test points mentioned in
troubleshooting charts are solely for reference.
Troubleshooting Theory
For general information on troubleshooting theory, refer to:
http://service.info.apple.com/service_training/en/006/troubleshoot/index.php?page=intro
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Apple Service Diagnostics 20
Hardware vs. Software
For information on how to isolate a hardware issue from a software issue, refer to:
http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1388?viewlocale=en_US
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>
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.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Hardware vs. Software 21
Apple Hardware Test
There are two versions of Apple Hardware Test (AHT) for the MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008).
To identify which version of AHT to use, check the third, fourth, and fth digits in the system
serial number. See examples below.
• Apple Hardware Test 3A147 to be used on systems with the third, fourth, and fth serial
number digits below 911. Example: Serial number W 8 8 4 0 H Q R I G 0
• Apple Hardware Test 3A163 to be used on systems with the third, fourth, and fth serial
number digits equal to or higher than 911. Example: Serial number W 8 9 1 1 7 0 R I G A
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Apple Hardware Test 22
Functional Overview
Refer to this diagram for symptoms related to MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) logic board
connectors.
Trackpad + trackpad button
thermal sensor:
-no cursor movement,
-no click action
-unit running slow (no sensor
input)
-no boot,
-freezes and
kernel panic
-video artifacts
indicator leds + battery
level test button:
-no battery error indication,
-no battery level while
charging
-no battery level shown if
button pressed
-no sleep when clamshell
closed,
-wakes from sleep
-no video on internal display (if
Ram:
Battery
Sleep led+ Infrared sensor +
magnetic sleep sensor:
-no sleep led status,
-no infrared reception,
-no hdd visible
- no boot from hd
Sata hard drive:
Right Speaker:
-no sound from right speaker
or woofer
-distorted right or center sound
-no startup if shorted AP
Sata optical drive:
-no odd visible,
-no boot from odd
Clamshell to Airport,
Bluetooth, webcam and
ambient light sensor:
-any of these
communications failing
-no keyboard backlight
Keyboard backlight:
-no keyboard backlight
(underneath mlb):
-not running when
battery only
-no power on
power on
button:
-no power
-dead keys
-Expresscard not
recognized
Battery
Keyboard +
ExpressCard:
Microphone
-no integrated sound input
Left speaker
left sound)
(no left sound, distorted
(no startup, system
or freezes)
shutdown,
Connectors located on
the other side of the
Thermal module sensor
MLB:
Fans:
-intermittent shutdown
-freezes
-noisy fan
LCD + backlight:
-no video on internal lcd
-no backlight
Magsafe connector
(underneath mlb):
-no power on
-no battery charge
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Functional Overview 23
Block Diagram, MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)
Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Block Diagram, MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 24
Liquid Submersion Indicators
Liquid submersion indicators (LSI) 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 LSIs 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 submersion
indicators (LSI) on portable computers.” http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3400
Common Reset Procedures
When a reset procedure is required for troubleshooting, follow the applicable steps:
Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)
To reset power management via the SMC chip:
1. If the computer is on, turn it o.
2. Disconnect the power adapter and remove the main battery.
3. Hold the power button down for ve seconds, then release.
4. Install the main battery and connect the power adapter.
5. Press the power button to restart the computer.
Resetting the SMC means you will also need to reset the date and time (using the Date & Time
pane of System Preferences).
For more information:
http://www.apple.com/support
HT1411—Apple Portables: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) <http://
support.apple.com/kb/HT1411>
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.
2010-06-15
3. Turn on the computer.
4. Press and hold the Command-Option-P-R keys.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Liquid Submersion Indicators 25
Important: You must press this key combination before the gray screen appears.
5. Hold the keys down until the computer restarts and you hear the startup sound for the
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>
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>
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Common Reset Procedures 26
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
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 Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies 27
Display Hinge Behavior
The MacBook Pro models have a unique counterbalanced clutch system. The design provides a
smooth, uid feel when opening, closing, or positioning the display. The counterbalanced clutch
system was designed so that when the display is vertical with respect to the ground, it will
remain in place regardless of the angle of the base.
Moving the display past vertical allows the hinges to release and the display to close. This is
normal behavior and no repair is necessary. Refer to http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3304 for
more information and to watch a video of this hinge behavior.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Display Hinge Behavior 28
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 silkscreen 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 charge state.
2. Verify battery status as being partly charged,
charging with AC power.
3. Reset SMC.
4. Refer to Deep Dive table for battery diagnostic
testing.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts 29
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Isolate peripherals as cause.
Disconnect all peripherals and
external devices and verify unit
starts.
2. Reset SMC, and verify unit
starts. (Alternative hardware
SMC reset can be forced by
shorting R5001 pads on logic
board or removing all system
power for 1 minute.) Can
system start up after SMC
reset?
3. Will system power up with
battery only? Check battery
level LED indicator for status
of battery charge or battery
use error. Inspect battery
connector for burn marks or
damaged pins if substituting a
known-good battery to verify
starting on battery.
Yes Suspect peripherals as cause.
Reconnect each one at a time,
verifying unit operation as
external device is reinstalled.
No Go to step 2
Yes Corrupt SMC state preventing
power on. Issue resolved with
SMC reset.
No Go to step 3
Yes System can start up from
known-good battery -customer battery possibly at
fault or needs to be charged.
Continue to verify customer
battery then AC adapter use
and battery charging. Go to
step 4.
No System will not power using
known-good battery only. Go
to step 5
P11
2010-06-15
4. Customer battery may be run
down, or not recognized.
Verify customer battery in
a known-good system is
recognized and accepting a
charge. Conrm customer
battery is not consumed nor
defective.
Yes Battery is recognized,
charging and health is good.
Return to test unit with
customer battery and AC
adapter power. Go to step 6.
No Replace customer battery
for not charging (P10) or not
recognized (P11). Customer
to purchase a replacement
battery if consumed.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts 30
P10
or
P11
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