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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Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, MacBook, and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in
the U.S. and other countries.
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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
5. Inspect battery cable
connection at logic board and
reseat if necessary. Replace
cable if found damage or
burned. Can the system power
on from a charged battery with
battery cable inspections or
replacement?
Yes Battery power restored, return
to test unit with customer
battery and AC adapter
power. Go to step 6.
No Logic board is expected to
power on with battery only.
Inspect and test power on
key. Go to step 10.
6. Inspect MagSafe power
adapter. Verify AC adapter is
correct wattage, compatible
with product and works on
known-good computer.
7. Inspect MagSafe port on
computer for physical damage,
debris or metal fragments
attracted to magnetic
connector. Is MagSafe
connector clean and free from
defects?
8. Verify adapter status LED
turns on green then orange
indicating power and battery
charge in progress.
A green LED can indicate a full
battery, removal of battery or
battery not recognized.
Yes Power adapter is good, go to
step 7
No Release stuck pin or replace
adapter due to wire damage,
not working or burned pins
Yes Go to step 8
No Clean port assembly. Replace
MagSafe board if necessary.
Yes System starts and has power.
MagSafe LED indicates power
is owing to logic board.
Verify customer battery will
also charge. Review battery
health to ensure customer
satisfaction.
No AC power is down or battery
is not charging. Go to step 9
P14
X03
P11
2010-06-15
9. Verify power from adapter is
present on logic board.
Remove system battery, use
AC power only. Reseat or test
known-good MagSafe cable to
achieve power for logic board.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 31
Yes Logic board has power
adapter energy to start
system. MagSafe cable reseat
or replacement resolved issue.
If still no system power on
indications, go to step 10
No AC adapter power not going
to logic board power supplies.
Replace logic board.
X03
M21
10. Test and inspect Top Case
Power Button.
Stuck or open power on key or
keyboard disconnect can
disable the power on of
system. If button does not
work, locate pads R5015 on
logic board just to right of IR/
sleep cable. Short pads to
power up logic board. If power
on key is stuck, keyboard cable
must be disconnected for
R5015 to work. Does system
power on? (Reconnect
keyboard cable to conrm bad
or intermittent connections.)
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
No No logic board power on
when shorting R5015 pads.
Replace logic board.
Won’t Start Up
Unlikely cause: display assembly, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
K05
M01
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 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.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 32
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Reset SMC and Clear PRAM to
set default startup device to
internal hard disk drive (HDD).
2. Is system indicating a memory
error with repeated sleep LED
1 or 3 ash sequence and beep
tones if sound is enabled?
3. Reseat customer memory
and/or swap in knowngood memory to isolate bad
memory and replace defective
parts.
4. Hold the Alt (Option) key
during startup and verify there
is a bootable hard drive shown
in Startup Manager. Choose
customer hard drive. Does
start up from this drive work?
Yes User hard drive bootable,
issue resolved default
settings.
No Customer system 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 Customer memory defective
and replaced. 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
customer hard drive. Startup
issue resolved
No Customer hard drive not
present or does not start up
from this drive. Continue to
nd bootable device. Go to
step 5
X02
M07
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5. Insert product OS install disc
in optical drive. Install disc
is bootable and should be
present in Startup Manager.
Can system start up from OS
install disc?
6. Boot from a known-good
bootable copy of product OS
on a USB drive or network
server to start up and verify
internal mass storage devices
are available using System
Proler and Disk Utility.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 33
Yes Starts up from optical drive -
customer 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
7. Troubleshoot optical drive
and optical drive cable with
cable reseat and knowngood part substitutions. Is
there a defective optical drive
component to replace?
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 if hard
drive is available on device list.
Is customer hard drive listed in
Disk Utility?
9. Troubleshoot hard drive and
hard drive SATA cable with
cable reseat and known-good
part substitutions. If customer
hard drive, is there a defective
hard drive component to
replace?
Defective optical drive found
J03
and replaced. Continue to
verify hard drive issues, go to
step 8
No Replace logic board M19
Yes Customer 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 Reseat of SATA cable now has
customer hard drive visible in
Disk Utility, go to step 10
Defective hard drive SATA
X03
cable found and replaced,
now has customer hard drive
visible in Disk Utility, go to
step 10
2010-06-15
10. Boot system with Shift key
down. Does it work?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 34
Suspect customer hard drive
defective, attempt OS restore,
go to step 10
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
No Go to step 11
M19
11. Use Disk Utility to repair
customer hard drive and
repair permissions if system OS
found on hard drive. Is hard
drive bootable after software
repairs?
Yes OS on customer hard drive
repaired, issue resolved.
No Hard drive not bootable,
perhaps missing OS, go to
step 12
12. Use Disk Utility to partition
customer hard drive with one
GUID partition then restore
Mac OS from product OS install
disc. Is hard drive bootable
after OS install?
Yes Customer 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 Causes
Your computer’s system log may record why it shut down or went into sleep mode. Reviewing
SMC codes in the system.log of the Console application may provide some information about
why the event occurred.
To review SMC codes in the system.log in Console:
1. Open the Console application. Console is located in the /Applications/Utilities/ folder.
2. Select Open System Log under the File menu.
2010-06-15
3. Using the lter in the upper right corner, search for “Cause.”
4. Use the table below to interpret the cause and review the suggestion if shutdown was
unexpected.
Example: Entry found “Jun 6 18:06:28 localhost kernel[0]: Previous Shutdown Cause: 5”
By looking for the code 5 in table below, you will discover that computer shutdown was caused
by user selection of System Menu option “Shutdown…”
Depending on the cause reported, the shutdown could be xed by using the Quick Check or
Deep Dive troubleshooting table.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 35
Shutdown
Cause
Number
Cause Suggested Fix
3
5
-2
-60
0
-62
-3
-74
-75
-95
-100
Forced shutdown: Normal behavior,
if power button was pressed for
more than 4 seconds.
Normal shutdown: Normal behavior
if software initiated shutdown/
restart.
Power supply disconnected: Normal
behavior if power source was
removed from computer with no
battery.
Battery fully drained: Normal
behavior if unit was left asleep on
battery for too long.
Battery/Power disconnected: Normal
behavior if battery was removed
while system was on and no other
power source connected.
Watchdog timer detected
unresponsive application, restarting
the system.
Temperature may be going over
temp.
Battery temperature exceeds limits. Swap battery and check with known
Communication issue with AC
adapter.
Temperature may be going over
temp.
Power supply over temp. Check sensors and fan.
If shutdown was unexpected, check
top case (for power button stuck, or
shorted cable).
If shutdown was unexpected, check
Energy Saver setting in System
Preferences.
If shutdown was unexpected,
check power cord/power supply
(for intermittent failure or bad
connection).
If shutdown was unexpected, check/
charge battery.
If shutdown was unexpected, check
battery/power supply.
Troubleshoot for stuck application,
startup item and any loading
preferences.
Run Apple Service diagnostics to
check which sensor went beyond
expected thermal limits.
good one to conrm issue is with
battery over temp.
Check MagSafe connector/adapter
plug/cable.
If heatsink has thermal cable
attached, check thermal heatsink
connector. Otherwise check fan
connection/activity..
2010-06-15
-101
-103
LCD may be going over temp. Check LCD panel and fan.
Battery cell under voltage detected. Check the battery.
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 36
Intermittent shutdown
• Powers o during startup
• Powers o with desktop use
1. Verify battery charge status
2. Check AC adapter MagSafe connector and
connection with system
3. Reset SMC and PRAM
4. Start up with shift key down for safe mode
5. Startup from known-good bootable device
6. Check system.log info for shutdown cause
7. Run AHT /ASD for sensors + thermal test
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Identify shutdown code
recorded in system log le.
Open the system.log le with
console application. Search
for occurrences of “previous
shutdown cause” return codes.
Verify system log looking for
codes that indicate abnormal
shutdown events.
2. Reset SMC and clear PRAM;
then monitor system
performance to verify if
system shutdowns cease. Are
shutdown symptoms and
events gone?
Yes -Intermittent power means
checking battery health , AC
source and MagSafe cable
seating ; go to step 4
-Sleep means running sleep
sensor test; go to step 7
-Overtemp means checking
for clogged heatsink, shorted
sensors cables or defective
fan; go to step 8
No system.log lists only normal
shutdown codes, no codes
related to heat sensors or
power concerns. Go to step 2
Yes Shutdown cause related to
SMC or PRAM resolved by
changing to default settings.
No Shutdown event still occurs.
Go to step 3.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 37
3. Start up from product OS
install disc or from an external
hard drive with product Mac
OS.
Are shutdown symptoms and
events gone while starting up
from this known-good Mac
OS?
Yes Shutdown events cease on
known-good OS. Reinstall
Mac OS on customer hard
drive and update OS with
latest version and check
if bootROM updates are
available.
No Symptoms unchanged - go to
step 4
4. Check system running on
battery only. Use known-good
charged battery.
Verify that shutdown/reset/
sleep issues disappear when
known-good battery is used
without AC adapter.
5. Check with known-good AC
adapter source only
Remove battery and use
known-good AC adapter.
Does the shutdown/reset/
sleep issue disappear with
known-good adapter?
6. Check if power removed error
reported “improper shutdown
detected” in system.log
If shutdown error is related
to power removed shutdown
cause, run ASD and check for
overvoltage sensor failure
reported.
Yes Recharge customer battery
and retest. Check for
customer battery health in
Apple System Proler or run
battery testing utility, and
replace if reported battery
health is reported bad or
consumed.
No Symptoms unchanged - Go
to step 5
Yes Faulty adapter. Replace
customer AC adapter if AC
cable and duckhead were
conrmed faulty.
No Symptoms unchanged - Go
to step 6
Yes If voltage or current sensor
failure conrmed in ASD
with known-good DC and
batteries, replace logic board.
No Go to step 9
P09
P14
MO8
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 38
7. Check if sleep event happens
repeatedly in system.log
If sleep/wake events are
repeatedly reported, plug
external monitor and run ASD
to check for sleep sensor test.
Verify if sleep sensor test is
failing.
Yes Check for intermittently
shorted sleep sensor in top
case. If damaged, replace
sensor/cable of top case.
Check IR cable is properly
seated
Reseat and retest sleep sensor
with ASD. If failing again,
check for presence of magnet
in display assembly above
sensor.
If magnet present, replace
sensor/cable or top case and
retest. If still sleep sensing
failing, replace logic board
if magnet missing replace
display assembly
No Go to step 8
X03
X03
X03
M22
L15
8. Check if over temp cause
reported in system.log
If shutdown error is related
to over temp shutdown
cause, run ASD and verify
that a sensor or fan failure is
reported.
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 does not happen with
known-good fan, replace fan.
-If over temp failure reported
check for cause of over temp
like obstructed vent, dust
in heatsink n, or clogged
fan and retest. If still failing
replace part where sensor is
located (logic board, battery,
display assembly or trackpad)
according to the sensor
location table of service
manual.
Go to step 9
No Replace Thermal module
Go to step 9
M18
X03
X10
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 39
9. Isolate if issue solved
Verify that shutdown/issue
does not happen anymore
after part exchange.
Yes Issue xed
No Replace logic board with
corresponding symptom:
-if for thermal error cause
-if for other cause
No Video/Bad Video
Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive, top case, battery, power adapter
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
M18
M08
Power, but No Video
• Power
• No video
• fan, hard drive spin, or optical
drive reset sound
• sleep LED is on or went on
• light if Caps Lock pressed
1. Reset SMC.
2. Reset PRAM.
3. If no startup chime, verify with known-good
memory.
4. Verify with external monitor.
5. Press Alt key on startup..
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Characterize video issue
Dene whether the issue is a
bad image with backlight OR
no video issue.
Verify whether some image
even distorted is visible.
2. Isolate Peripherals as cause
Disconnect all peripherals,
external devices, Express
Card and display adapters if
present and verify that video is
displayed.
Yes Bad image quality, go to step
5
No No image seen or no
backlight, go to Step 2
Yes Suspect peripherals as cause.
Reconnect one at a time,
verifying unit operation at
each stage
No Go to Step 3
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 40
3. Adjust Brightness
Power-on unit , attempt to
adjust brightness to maximum
using brightness (F1/F2)
keys and verify that video is
displayed.
Yes Video displayed - Brightness
set to minimum, panel
backlight was inadvertently
turned o. If backlight returns
to low check for stuck F1 key
on keyboard.
No Go to Step 4
4. Reset SMC
Reset SMC and verify that
system video is displayed.
5. Reset PRAM.
If no action, use external
keyboard with same sequence.
Verify that system video is
displayed.
6. Connect External video
Connect known-good VGA/
DVI adapter to known-good
display, press power button
and close display to force main
screen startup on external
video. Verify that video is
correct when displayed from
external display.
Yes Corrupt SMC State preventing
video.
No Go to Step 5
Yes Invalid or Corrupt PRAM
contents aecting video
output
No Go to step 6
Yes Video correct on external
display. Research available
rmware and software
updates, retest.
If returning with software
already updated, go to Step 7
No Replace logic board with
according symptom code:
-no video
-bad/distorted video
M03
M04
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 41
7. Isolate LCD display detection
Disconnect external monitor
and reopen display and restart
unit. Verify that sleep LED
indicator goes o after internal
LCD has been detected.
Yes Sleep LED goes o when LCD
detected.
-If still no video then Go to
step 8,
-If video present, but with
defect, go to step 9
No Internal LCD not detected.
Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for LCD panel presence. If
not found, reseat LVDS cable
connection on logic board
and retest. If sleep led does
not go o after cable is
reseated, go to step 10
8. Check for sleep sensor
condition
If display assembly sleep
sensor is stuck in a closed state,
video will appear on internal
display temporarily, until the
OS sleeps the system.
Disconnect IR/sleep cable and
restart unit without external
display. Verify that system
starts up with video on internal
display stays on and does not
go into sleep mode.
9. Check for No Backlight
Condition.
Power on unit.
Using a lamp or bright light
source, inspect for faint image,
and verify that any faint image
appears.
Yes Sleep sensor was stuck or had
shorted cable. Replace IR/
sleep cable (or enclosing top
case)
No Symptoms unchanged - Go
to Step 9
Yes Logo image visible - check
and reseat LVDS cable
connector on logic board.
Inspect cables for damage
near clutches:
. if damaged, replace display
assembly and go to step 11
. if cable is not damaged, run
Clamshell Service Diagnostic
utility and check for LCD
panel presence. If not found,
reseat it and retest, then go
to step 11
X13
L09
2010-06-15
No If symptom continues, go to
step 10.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 42
10. Verify with Known good
display assembly
Connect known-good display
assembly to system.
Yes System is functioning with
known-good display assembly
Replace display assembly if
following symptom reporting:
- had no power issue
- had incorrect/missing colors
- had blank video
- had distorted / blurred video
- had vertical/horizontal lines
- had noise/unstable ickering
- had dim backlight
- had bad spot(s)/pixels
- had no backlight
- could not change resolution
L01
L02
L03
L04
L05
L06
L07
L08
L09
L10
No Symptoms unchanged -
replace logic board
11. Verify with reseated backlight
cable or replaced display
assembly
Verify that unit now has video
and backlight.
Yes Issue was only due to
damaged display assembly or
unseated cable.
No Display cable damaged the
logic board. Replace logic
board.
Battery Isn’t Recognized or Won’t Charge
Unlikely cause: display assembly, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, trackpad
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
M03
M25
2010-06-15
Battery isn’t recognized or won’t
charge
• AC adapter
• No MagSafe LED indicator
• No orange charge indication
• Battery status LEDs:
- single chase
- all ash
- no LED
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 43
1. Check battery level and test AC power.
2. Refer to Deep Dive table for battery diagnostic
testing.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Does the MagSafe LED
go green to amber when
connected to the system?
2. When the Battery status
button is pressed, did any of
the lights come on?
3. Does battery status indicate
a fully charge battery with all
LEDs on?
4. Does battery status indicate
the battery is not recognized
with a single LED on that
chases back and forth 5 times?
Yes Battery is recognized and
charging. Go to step 6
No LED is green, Battery may be
full or not recognized. Go to
step 2
LED was on momentarily then
went out. Go to No Power for
system (M01)
Yes Go to step 3
No Go to step 11
Yes Customer battery charged,
check health. Go to step 13.
No Go to step 4
Yes Go to step 8 and tag battery
as a possible P11 candidate.
No Go to step 5
(P11)
2010-06-15
5. Does battery status indicate
the battery is recognized but
not charging with all LEDs
blinking?
6. Does battery status indicate
battery charge and ash the
next level 5 times?
7. Does battery status indicate a
low battery with a LED ashing
rapidly indicating initial
charging of battery?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 44
Yes Go to step 8 and tag battery
as a possible P10 candidate
No Go to step 6
Yes Customer battery charging,
check battery condition. Go
to step 13
No Flashing rst LED only, go to
step 7
No battery status LEDs on, go
to step 11
Yes Allow customer battery to
charge to 1 LED on before
checking battery condition.
Go to step 13.
No Go to step 8
(P10)
8. Test with a known-good
battery. Is battery recognized
and charging?
Yes Replace customer battery
(P10 not charging or P11 not
recognized)
No Go to step 9
P10 or
P11
9. Inspect customer battery cable
connector for corrosion or
obstructions.
10. Reseat battery harness at logic
board connector, and retest.
Is battery recognized and
charging?
11. Battery status LEDs not
working - inspect button stuck
or cable disconnect at logic
board and reset SMC.
12. Remove system battery and
connect and test a knowngood battery status indicator
assembly. Do LEDs indicate a
battery not recognized chase
pattern?
Yes Clear obstructions and
replace battery if corroded
P10 or
P11
and recheck. (P10 not
charging or P11 not
recognized)
No Go to step 10
Yes Issue resolved by cable reseat.
Check battery condition, go
to step 13
No Replace logic board M20
Yes LED status now working. Go
to step 3.
No Go to step 12.
Yes Replace customer battery
X03
LED indicator assembly. Go to
step 3
No Replace customer logic board. M20
2010-06-15
13. Open Apple System Proler
and click on the Power Tab on
the left. Is the battery over 300
Yes Battery has been consumed,
and customer will need to
purchase a replacement.
cycle counts?
No Go to step 14.
14. Is battery less than a year old? Yes Go to step 16
No Battery warranty expired, go
to step 15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 45
15. Considering the age of the
battery greater than one year
old, is the health of the battery
“Good” according to system
proler?
Yes Battery is in good health
and out of 1 year warranty
coverage. Battery should
continue to function until
consumed.
No Battery is consumed after
warranty coverage. Customer
to purchase a new battery.
16. For batteries still covered by
warranty, is the health of the
battery “Good?”
17. With battery charge greater
than 20% does battery support
system operation without AC
connected?
18. Test with a known-good
battery. Does known-good
battery support battery only
operation?
Kernel Panic/System Crashes
Unlikely cause: Battery, Power Adapter
Yes Battery functioning normal.
Go to step 17.
No Battery has premature
capacity loss. Replace
customer battery.
Yes Customer battery is good
No Go to step 18
Yes Replace customer battery for
will not run system on battery
alone
No Replace logic board M20
P08
P12
2010-06-15
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.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 46
1. Reset SMC and clear PRAM
2. Remove suspect external devices.
3. Verify user memory is 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 for sensors test
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Isolate Peripherals as cause.
Disconnect all peripherals,
external devices, and display
adapters if present
2. Reset SMC and clear PRAM
then verify that unit starts
without panic issues.
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 with an I/O
interface.
Yes Suspect peripherals as cause.
Reconnect one at a time,
verifying unit operation at
each stage
No Go to Step 2
Yes Issue resolved with default
startup settings.
No Go to step 3
Yes Kernel Panic is not a system
I/O related device. Go to step
5
No I/O device related crash, go to
step 4
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 47
4. Remove I/O device where
possible to pinpoint faulty
device:
- Disconnect camera cable
from display assembly (for
AirPort, Bluetooth, camera, and
ambient light sensor). Camera
cable can be disconnected
without aecting startup and
test.
- Bluetooth card to isolate
Bluetooth.
- optical drive cable to isolate
optical drive.
- hard drive cable to isolate
hard drive.
Memory cards can be removed,
relocated, or tested with
known-good memory. Because
system will run on one card,
this is a useful test for nding
bad memory or bad memory
slot.
If issue remains after testing
I/O device, replace with knowngood part(s) to conrm issue
resolved.
Yes System starts up when I/O
device removed, replace
aected I/O device or module
containing it.
If AirPort card presence is
crashing system, replace
AirPort card. If still issue,
replace display assembly (for
Bluetooth, camera, or cable
damage).
If Bluetooth card presence
is crashing system, replace
Bluetooth. If issue remains,
replace display assembly for
damaged Bluetooth (camera)
cable.
If optical drive presence is
crashing system, replace
optical drive cable and retest.
If issue remains try with
known-good optical drive.
If still issue, replace optical
drive.
If hard drive presence is
crashing system, replace hard
drive cable and retest. If issue
remains, try with known-good
hard drive. If still issue, replace
hard drive.
Reseat memory or replace
suspect memory with knowngood memory.
N13
L14
N15 or
L16
X03
J03
X03
H01
X01
2010-06-15
5. Start up from optical drive or
known-good OS.
Attempt to start up with
original or product install disc,
or from an external hard drive
with product OS installed,
and verify that system starts
without kernal panic.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 48
No Symptoms unchanged, go to
step 5
Yes Kernel panics cease running
alternate OS. Run ASD/
DiskUtility 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 6
H03
6. Disconnect display assembly
and test with known-good
display assembly. Verify that
system now starts up without
kernel panic/freeze.
Yes Replace display assembly. L14
No Go to step 7
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.
Yes No thermal fail detected -
Replace logic board with
matching symptom:
- If hang or freeze
- If Kernel Panic/system
crashes
No If sensor test failed, reseat
sensor connections on logic
board and retest. If still failing,
replace sensor or part where
it is located (top case, display,
other) :
If top case sensor failed
If display sensor failed
If logic board sensor failed
If fan test failed, replace fan.
If overtemp , replace heatsink.
M05
M06
X99
L14
M18
X03
X10
2010-06-15
Battery Run Time Too Short
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Battery Run Time Too Short
Battery runs out of power very
quickly (less than two hours)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 49
1. Check if the battery is covered under a repair
extension program. Use the “Portable Computer
Battery Screening Process for Apple Service
Providers” (Knowledge Base CP165).
2. Verify no applications have runaway processes
with the CPU. See “Runaway applications can
shorten battery runtime” (Knowedge Base
TS1473).
3. Run battery diagnostic testing..
Won’t Run on Power Adapter Alone
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.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. With battery removed, will a
known-good AC adapter start
up and run the system and
show MagSafe LED status?
Yes Conrm user’s AC adapter as
bad and replace.
No Verify MagSafe board cable
seating to logic board. Go to
step 2
P14
2010-06-15
2. Does a known-good power
adapter’s LED light up either
green or amber?
3. Does the unit run on knowngood power adapter alone?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 50
Yes SMC on logic board senses AC
power adapter. Go to step 3
No Replace the MagSafe board.
Go to step 3.
Yes Issued resolved. X03
No Replace logic board.. M01
Power Adapter Issue
Unlikely cause: logic board, RAM, display assembly, hard drive, optical drive, top case, speakers,
camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Power Adapter Issue
• No power
• No Power LED
• Non-operational
• Stuck /broken pin
1. Connect AC adapters MagSafe connector to the
computer. The LED on the connector should be
green or amber.
2. Verify power cord, or plug, is rmly attached to
AC adapter.
3. Verify AC power source is supplying AC power.
4. 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
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify that the MagSafe LED
is green or amber while
connecting a known-good AC
adapter on customer system.
Yes SMC on logic board senses AC
power adapter and enabled
power. Go to step 4.
No Verify MagSafe interconnect
board is connected to logic
board. Go to step 2
2010-06-15
2. Does the unit run on knowngood AC power adapter only?
3. Verify the MagSafe LED
is green or amber while
connecting known-good
power adapter on customer
system.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 51
Yes Issued resolved. P99
No Replace the MagSafe
interconnect board. Go to
step 3.
Yes Bad MagSafe interconnect
board. Issue resolved.
No Go to step 4
X03
4. Does the customer’s power
adapter have stuck or
bent pins on the MagSafe
connector?
Yes Replace power adapter. P15
No Go to step 5
5. Does the cable or duckhead
have visible damage?
6. Check that LED on MagSafe
connector is displaying both
green (if battery charged) and
orange (when charging).
Yes Replace cable or duckhead. P16
No Go to step 6
Yes Verify adapter with known-
good unit and customer unit
and troubleshoot source of
error
No Replace power adapter. P03
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 a
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 ).
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Use of a known-good AC
adapter eliminates the noise/
vibration.
2. Verify if the noise is heard
through the speakers and / or
headphones.
Yes Replace AC adapter. P04
No Go to step 2
Yes Go to step 3
No Go to step 4
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 52
3. Disconnect any peripheral
devices, cards, or cables
attached to the unit. Verify the
noise is gone.
Yes Check for possible ground
loop.
No Go to step 6
4. Locate the source of the noise.
Is the noise from an optical
drive?
5. Is the noise from the hard
drive?
6. Is the noise coming from the
fan?
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,
replace optical drive.
No Go to step 5
Yes It is normal for drives to
produce noise when they
spin up or the heads move.
Replace drive if noise is above
normal levels.
No Go to step 6
Yes The fan(s) are generally
running in a slow mode,
but may accelerated 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.
J04
H06
X03
2010-06-15
7. Noise maybe related to
interference from other
electrical devices operating
near the computer, or on
the same AC power source.
Verify if noise is gone when
operating in a dierent
location on a dierent AC
circuit.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 53
No Go to step 7. P04
Yes Perhaps operating the unit
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.
No Replace logic board. M99
Burnt Smell / Odor
Unlikely cause: Enclosure
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Burnt Smell / Odor
Computer or power adapter emits
an odor or smell of smoke.
1. Disconnect 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. Has the source of the odor
been identied.
2. Are any burn marks visible on
components?
Yes Replace the aected part. P08
No Go to step 2
Yes Remove display assembly and
clutch cover. An improperly
seated cable, a damaged
cable, or a reversed AirPort
Card connection can blow
components near the
connector on the logic board.
Is AirPort Card cable correctly
oriented and connected?
If so, replace the damaged
part.
If not, reseat the AirPort cable
correctly and replace the
damaged logic board.
P08
2010-06-15
No Go to step 3
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 54
3. Is the computer 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.
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
• Computer wobbles
• Trackpad button does not work
• Deformed bottom case
1. Check if the battery is covered under a repair
extension program. Reference: MacBook,
MacBook Pro (15-inch) or MacBook Pro (17-inch)
with swollen battery article (Knowledge Base
TS2358).
2. 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 Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 55
Communications
Ethernet Port/Device Issue
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, camera,
microphone, top case, display assembly, 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.
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 install media (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
2. Isolate OS by booting from
original install media. 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.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 56
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.
Yes Go to step 4.
No If connection is OK on known-
good system, replace logic
board.
M10
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.
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.
Yes Go to step 5
No If the symptoms do not
change, replace the logic
board.
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
M10
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 57
AirPort/Bluetooth: Defective Wireless Devices
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, camera,
microphone, top case
Caution: When testing an AirPort 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 install
media (10.5.x). Attempt to connect to base
station (AirPort) or pair with wireless keyboard
(Bluetooth).
6. Reset PRAM.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
2010-06-15
1. Open System Proler, check to
see if AirPort or Bluetooth is
recognized. Ensure software
and rmware updates for
AirPort and Bluetooth have
been applied.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 58
Yes (AirPort) Ensure MAC address
ltering is not enabled on the
base station.
(Bluetooth) Ensure
target devices are set to
discoverable.
No If card is not detected or
software updates do not
resolve issue, go to step 2.
2. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for all devices presence. If not
found, reseat the camera cable
connection to the logic board.
Yes Loose logic board connection. N04
No AirPort issue, go to step 3,
Bluetooth issue go to step 7.
3. (AirPort) Verify the antenna
connections to the AirPort
card are not reversed or loose.
Reseat antenna and I/O cable
connections.
4. (AirPort) Try a known-good
AirPort antenna.
5. (AirPort) Try a known-good
AirPort card.
6. (AirPort) Try a known-good
display assembly if available.
7. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good
Bluetooth card. Although
Bluetooth cabling is part of
camera cable, Bluetooth card
is separate. Verify that System
Proler sees known-good
Bluetooth card.
Yes Loose connections or crossed
N04
antenna.
No If the connectors are secure,
antenna connections not
reversed and show no signs
of damage or wear, go to step
4.
Yes Replace AirPort antenna. N14
No Continue to use known-good
antenna, go to step 5.
Yes Replace AirPort card. N12
No Go to step 6.
Yes Replace display assembly. L16
No Replace logic board. M11
Yes Replace Bluetooth card. N15
No Go to step 8.
2010-06-15
8. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good display
assembly, if available, and
Bluetooth card. Bluetooth
cabling is part of camera cable.
Verify that System Proler sees
known-good Bluetooth card.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 59
Yes Replace display assembly. L16
No Replace logic board. M11
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 install media
(10.5.x). Attempt to connect to base station.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Open System Proler, check to
see if AirPort card is recognized
under Network: AirPort Card.
Yes Use Software Update to make
sure all AirPort software and
rmware updates have been
applied. Ensure base station
is not using MAC address
ltering or creating a hidden
network.
2010-06-15
2. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for all devices presence. If not
found, reseat the camera cable
connection to the logic board.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 60
No If card is not detected, go
to M11 - AirPort/Bluetooth Defective wireless devices.
Yes Loose logic board connection N04
No Go to step 3.
3. Verify the antenna connections
to the AirPort card are not
reversed or loose. Reseat
antenna and I/O cable
connections.
Yes Loose connections or crossed
antenna
No If the connectors are secure,
antenna connections not
reversed and show no signs
of damage or wear, go to step
4.
N04
4. Try a known-good AirPort
antenna.
5. Try a known-good AirPort card. Yes Replace AirPort card. N12
6. Try a known-good display
assembly if available.
Yes Replace AirPort antenna. N14
No Continue to use known good
antenna, go to step 5.
No Continue to use known-good
antenna & card; go to step 6.
Yes Replace display assembly. L16
No Replace logic board. M11
Bluetooth Wireless Input Device Loses Connection
Unlikely cause: display assembly, speaker assembly, optical drive, hard drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
2010-06-15
Bluetooth Wireless Input Device
Loses Connection
Check Bluetooth input device has fully charged
batteries.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. System Proler should list
Bluetooth radio device under
system hardware. Is Bluetooth
device available?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 61
Yes Bluetooth radio present, verify
Bluetooth preference settings,
go to step 2.
No Attempt Bluetooth repair, go
to step 5.
2. System Preferences has a
Bluetooth panel. Ensure
Bluetooth is on and
discoverable. Are there any
devices listed in pairing
window?
Yes Choose known-good device
and establish a connection.
Go to step 3.
No Attempt Bluetooth repair, go
to step 5.
3. Ensure a known-good
Bluetooth device is on, in close
range and in discoverable
mode. Is computer pairing
with known-good device?
4. Is computer pairing with user’s
Bluetooth device?
5. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for all devices presence. If not
found, reseat camera cable on
logic board. Verify that a USB
Bluetooth controller is visible
in System Proler.
6. Install a known-good
Bluetooth card. Verify that a
USB Bluetooth controller is
visible in System Proler.
Yes Pairing veried, connect with
user’s device, go to step 4
No Attempt Bluetooth repair, go
to step 5.
Yes Connection established,
continue testing for
connection loss, go to step 8.
No Check for software updates
K07
for both computer & device.
Yes Loose cable connection. N04
No Go to step 6.
Yes Replace Bluetooth card N15
No Go to step 7
2010-06-15
7. Install and test a known-good
display assembly. Verify that
a USB Bluetooth controller is
visible in System Proler.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 62
Yes Replace display assembly. L16
No Replace logic board. M11
8. Continue to test a known-good
Bluetooth device to determine
if there is a disconnect. Do
not allow computer to sleep
during this test. Is link lost
during test?
Yes Check for software update,
2.4 GHz radio interference or
device low battery.
If still losing link, replace
Bluetooth card.
If installed Bluetooth card is
known-good or was already
replaced, replace top case (for
Bluetooth antenna).
No Known-good device passed
test.
AirPort Card: Kernel Panic
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, optical drive, hard drive, fan, camera,
microphone, top case
N14
N14
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 install media
(10.5.x). Attempt to connect to Wi-Fi network.
2. Use 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. Is
kernel panic resolved?
Yes Software issue.
No Go to step 2.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 63
2. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for all devices presence. If not
found, reseat the camera cable
connection to the logic board.
Is kernel panic resolved?
Yes Go to step 4.
No Go to step 3.
3. Isolate AirPort card by
removing the I/O connection
from the AirPort card. side.
Reconnect camera cable
connection to logic board. Is
kernel panic resolved?
4. Connect and test with a
known-good AirPort card. Is
kernel panic resolved?
Yes Go to step 4.
No Go to M06 Kernel Panic /
System Crashes.
Yes Replace AirPort card. N13
No Replace display assembly. L16
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 64
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
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 users trying to
use AirPort in the area for possible network
congestion. Move closer to base station to
improve signal reception.
3. (Bluetooth) Move devices closer together.
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 original install
media (10.5.x). Attempt to connect to base
station (AirPort) or pair with wireless keyboard
(Bluetooth)
7. Use Software Update to make sure all AirPort and
Bluetooth software and rmware updates have
been applied.
2010-06-15
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Inspect the display clutch
barrel for damage. AirPort
radio is in display clutch barrel
area.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 65
Yes Record damage: Proceed
to possibly repair damaged
parts, go to step 2
No No visible damage, go to step
2
2. Turn o Bluetooth. Retest
AirPort performance.
Refer to Knowledge Base
TS1809.
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
N06
3. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for all devices presence. If not
found, reseat the camera cable
connection to the logic board.
4. (AirPort) Verify the antenna
connections to the AirPort
card are not reversed or loose.
Reseat antenna and I/O cable
connections.
5. (AirPort) Try a known-good
AirPort antenna and verify that
issue is xed..
6. (AirPort) Try a known-good
AirPort card and verify that
issue is xed..
Yes Loose logic board connection N04
No AirPort issue, go to step 4,
Bluetooth issue, go to step 8.
Yes Loose connection or crossed
N04
antenna
No If the connectors are secure,
antenna connections not
reversed and show no signs
of damage or wear, go to
step 5
Yes Replace AirPort antenna. N14
No Continue to use known good
antenna, go to step 6.
Yes Replace AirPort card. N12
No Continue to use known-good
antenna & card, go to step 7.
2010-06-15
7. (AirPort) Try a known-good
display assembly if available
and verify that issue is xed..
8. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good
Bluetooth card if available.
Verify that Bluetooth is pairing
with known-good device.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 66
Yes Replace display assembly. L16
No Replace logic board. M11
Yes Replace Bluetooth card. N15
No Go to step 9.
9. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good antenna
assembly if available. Verify
that pairing issue is xed.
Yes Replace top case. N14
No Go to step 10.
10. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good display
assembly if available. Verify
that Bluetooth is pairing with
known-good device.
Yes Replace display assembly. L16
No Replace logic board. M11
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair
Unlikely cause: display assembly, 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.
2010-06-15
4. If the Bluetooth pairs with no problems, probe
about potential interference issue at user’s site.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. System Proler should list
Bluetooth radio device under
system hardware. Is Bluetooth
device available?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 67
Yes Bluetooth radio present, verify
Bluetooth preference settings,
go to step 2.
No Attempt Bluetooth repair, go
to step 5.
2. System Preferences has a
Bluetooth panel. Ensure
Bluetooth is on and
discoverable. Are there any
devices listed in pairing
window?
Yes Choose known-good device
and establish a connection.
Go to step 3.
No Attempt Bluetooth repair, go
to step 5.
3. Ensure a known-good
Bluetooth device is on, in close
range and discoverable mode,
Is system pairing with knowngood device?
4. Is Bluetooth pairing with user’s
Bluetooth device?
5. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for all devices presence. If
not found, reseat camera
cable with logic board. Is the
Bluetooth radio present, on
and pairing with a knowngood device?
6. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good
Bluetooth card if available. Is
pairing issue xed?
Yes Pairing veried, connect with
user’s device, go to step 4.
No Attempt Bluetooth repair, go
to step 5.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Check for SW update for both
System and user device.
Yes Bad logic board connection.
Issue resolved.
No Go to step 6.
Yes Replace Bluetooth card. N15
2010-06-15
7. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good antenna
assembly if available. Is pairing
xed?
8. (Bluetooth) Enable Bluetooth
and try a known-good
display assembly if available.
Is Bluetooth pairing with a
known-good device?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 68
No Go to step 7.
Yes Replace top case. N14
No Go to step 8.
Yes Replace display assembly. L16
No Replace logic board. M11
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.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Communications 69
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. Go to Deep Dive: General
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 Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 70
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. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for LCD panel presence. If not
found, reseat and verify LVDS
cable is secure to the logic
board. Are colors restored?
Yes This ensures color prole can
be matched with LCD. Go to
step 2.
No Go to N09.
Yes If display prole is valid and
the 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 Loose cable connection. Issue
resolved.
No Go to step 5.
2010-06-15
5. Set desktop pattern in System
Preferences to ‘Solid Gray Light’.
Verify if incorrect/missing color
issue aects entire display.
6. 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.
7. Substitute a known-good
display assembly to test logic
board video output. Is normal
video restored?
Yes Test a known-good display, go
No Go to step 6.
Yes Test a known-good display, go
No Small variations in color
Yes Replace display assembly. L02
No Replace logic board. M04
Deep Dive: Distorted/Blurred Image
to step 7.
L02
to step 7
uniformity are normal and do
not warrant replacement or
repair of the display.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 71
Check Result Action Code
1. Sample image illustrates loss of
LVDS data signals to LCD or a
defective LCD panel. Inspect &
reseat LVDS cable connection
looking for damaged or bent
pins. Is image restored with
reseated cable connection?
2. Substitute a known good
display assembly to test logic
board video output. Is normal
video restored?
Yes Issue due to loose connection.
Display issue resolved.
No Go to step 2.
If logic board connector
damage, replace logic board.
Yes Replace display assembly. L04
No Replace logic board. M04
Deep Dive: Pixel Anomalies
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.
Yes Clean glass panel.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Replace display assembly. L08
No LCD meets bright pixel defect
specications. Go to step 3.
M24
3. Determine if dark pixel defects
exceed the acceptable number.
See
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies.
4. Determine if the combination
of bright/dark pixel defects
exceed the acceptable number.
See
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies.
Yes Replace display assembly. L08
No LCD meets dark pixel defect
specications. Go to step 4.
Yes Replace display assembly. L08
No Explain to user that LCD is
within specications. Do not
replace display assembly.
Deep Dive: Vertical/Horizontal Lines
Check Result Action Code
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 72
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.
Yes Issue only happens AFTER
Apple logo and spinning
wheel appears. Go to step 2.
No Issues happens since startup.
Go to step 5.
2. Start with shift key down
(safe mode) to disable system
extensions. Verify if issue still
happens when booting in safe
mode.
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 knowngood memory module. Verify
that issue only happens with
specic memory slot on logic
board.
5. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for LCD panel presence. If not
found, reseat the LVDS cable to
the logic board video output. Is
normal video restored?
Yes Go to step 5.
No No video issue when booting
in safe mode. Go to step 3.
Yes Replace aected RAM
module.
No Go to step 4
Yes Replace logic board. M07
No Go to step 5
Yes Issue resolved by reseating
loose LVDS cable..
No Go to step 6
X02
2010-06-15
6. Connect external compatible
DisplayPort display (or
DisplayPort adapter and
display). Verify if correct video
appears on external display.
7. Substitute a known-good
display assembly module to
test logic board LVDS video
output. Is normal video
restored?
Yes Go to step 7.
No Replace logic board M04
Yes Replace display assembly
No Replace logic board. M04
Deep Dive: Non-uniform Brightness
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 73
L05
module.
Check Result Action Code
1. Determine if brightness
uniformity issue is visible after
display has warmed up for 15
minutes.
2. Check LVDS cable connection
to logic board.
3. Determine if variation in
uniformity appears excessive
when compared to another
similar unit.
Yes Go to step 2.
No Display backlight can take
several minutes to stabilize.
Yes Reseat LVDS cable
No Got to step 3
Yes Replace display assembly. L07
No Explain to user that
LCD appears to meet
specications.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 74
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 and reseat
camera cable on logic board.
Is iSight listed in System
Proler?
Yes Camera recognized. Go to
step 3
No Go to step 2.
Yes Camera recognized. Go to
step 3.
No Go to step 4.
2010-06-15
3. Launch PhotoBooth. Verify
that camera’s green LED is on
and image appears normal.
4. Substitute a known-good
display assembly to test logic
board camera connection.
Is iSight camera operating
properly?
Yes Issue resolved..
No Go to step 4.
Yes Replace display assembly. X11
No Replace logic board. M13
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 75
Blank / No Video
Unlikely cause: Power adapter, speakers, ODD/HDD, 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 DVD that came with
computer.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify boot chime present
when system restarted.
Reset SMC and clear PRAM if
necessary for proper start up.
Is LCD video present?
2. Connect known-good
supported external display.
Verify whether image appears
on external display when
system is booted.
3. Verify if LCD backlight is on
by looking for faint glow
from display when viewed
in darkened room with
brightness adjusted to full.
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.
Yes Video signal from system
to external video is OK, LCD
backlight is on. Go to step 5.
No Go to step 4.
2010-06-15
4. Shine bright (low heat)
ashlight into the front of LCD.
Verify if an image is being
displayed.
5. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for LCD panel presence. If
not found, reseat and verify
that the display connections
to the logic board are secure.
Verify if image is restored after
reseating loose connections
Yes Image present but backlight
is not on. Check logic board
connections. Go to step 5.
No Go to No Video symptom.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Continue to test with known-
good display assembly. Go to
step 6.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 76
6. Verify LCD video works with a
known-good display assembly.
Yes Replace display assembly. L03
No Go to No Video symptom
code ow.
Backlight Issue / No Backlight
Unlikely cause: Power adapter, battery, speaker, ODD/HDD, 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.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Connect external display, clear
PRAM to set brightness to
default level and verify if Color
LCD is listed in the System
Proler’s Graphics/Displays
device tree.
2. Run Clamshell Service
Diagnostic utility and check
for LCD panel presence. If not
found, reseat the LVDS cable
at the logic board. Repeat
verication in System Proler.
Yes Display panel detected by
system. Go to step 3.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Display panel detected by
system. Go to step 3.
No Go to step 4.
2010-06-15
3. Darken room and verify
backlight by detecting if any
glow is emitted from the
display
Yes Backlight operating. Go to
step 5.
No Go to step 4.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 77
4. Swap memory with knowngood memory to determine if
video issue is ram related..
Yes Reseat or replace defective
memory
No Go to step 5
X01
5. Inspect LVDS connectors and
cable under magnication for
pinched cables and damaged
or bent pins. Do any of the
connections appear to be
defective?
6. Substitute a known-good
display assembly to test
logic board video output. Is
backlight and display text back
to normal?
Noise / Unstable Flickering
Unlikely cause: Top case, battery
Yes Defective LVDS cable. Replace
display assembly.
Defective LVDS connector
on logic board. Replace logic
board.
No If connections are OK and
secure and the display is still
blank, go to step 6.
Yes Replace display assembly. L09
No Poor or no backlight LED
Driver power at logic board.
Replace logic board.
L09
M25
M25
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Noise / Unstable Flickering
• Image icker
• Audible noise
1. Verify known-good source sound le not causing
speaker distortion.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify if user’s issue is due to
video ickering coming from
display.
Yes Suspected ickering issue, go
to step 2.
No Audible noise issue, go to
step 5.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 78
2. Verify display listed in the
System Proler’s Graphics/
Displays device tree is not
disappearing intermittently
(refresh System Proler to
observe).
Yes Power and LCD panel ID are
OK. Go to step 3.
No Go to No Video symptom
code ow.
3. Inspect and reseat the LVDS
cable and camera cable
connection between display
and logic board. Also test
if brightness setting is a
contributing factor. Has
ickering stopped?
4. Substitute a known good
display assembly to test logic
board video output. Has
ickering stopped?
5. Verify source of noise is
electrical, not mechanical.
Audio noise should not
be a concern since LCD
components are all solid
state devices including LED
backlights.
Yes Loose cable connection. Issue
No Go to step 4.
Yes Replace display assembly. L06
No Replace logic board. M04
Yes Noises that are not audible
No Noise from other source. Go
Mechanical/Physical Damage
resolved.
from the normal user position
are considered acceptable.
Return unit to the user.
to P04 Noise/Hum/vibration.
2010-06-15
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 the failures are not
covered by Apple warranties. Refer to
http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 79
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 the failures are not
covered by Apple warranties. Refer to
http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty
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.
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Display 80
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 user’s drive, go to
step 2.
No Continue to use known-
good bootable hard drive to
determine root cause. Go to
step 4.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 81
4. After reseating hard drive SATA
and logic board connections,
does known-good hard drive
boot to desktop?
Yes Reinstall 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. Did user’s hard drive start up
successfully?
7. Partition, erase & install Mac OS
on user’s hard drive. Did install
complete without error and
start up successfully?
8. Replace user’s hard drive. Does
drive format correctly with a
GUID partition map and install
Mac OS without errors?
Yes Reinstall user’s drive, go to
step 2.
No Replace logic board. M19
Yes Issue resolved.
No Repair or replace 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.
Hard Drive Not Recognized/Not Mounting
X03
M19
2010-06-15
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone, AirPort
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Hard Drive Not Recognized/
Mount
Drive No Boot
• 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 Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 82
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Boot 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.
3. Substitute a known-good
bootable hard drive, does
computer start up to desktop?
4. After reseating SATA and
logic board connections, does
known-good hard drive start
up to desktop?
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 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 user’s hard drive start up
successfully?
7. Partition, erase & install Mac OS
on user’s hard drive. Did install
complete without error and
start up successfully?
8. Replace user’s hard drive. Does
drive format correctly with a
GUID partition map and install
Mac OS without errors?
Yes Install user drive, go to step 2. X03
No Replace logic board. M19
Yes Issue resolved.
No Restore or replace user’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.
M19
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 83
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. Is hard
drive available for Disk Utility
to repair?
Yes Go to step 2.
No Replace hard drive or go to
H01 Drive not recognized/
mount.
2010-06-15
2. Repair disk using Disk Utility
and verify it completed
successfully
3. Is hard drive still noisy? Yes Remove hard drive and start
4. Erase disk and reinstall Mac
OS using Installer. Did process
complete?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 84
Yes Restart computer. Go to step
3.
No Go to step 4.
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
5. After installing new hard drive,
do you still have drive 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 user’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
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 85
1. Use Apple System Proler ATA section to see if
the optical drive appears. If not, see Optical Drive
Not Recognized.,
2. Restart computer and hold down mouse button
or keyboard eject key to cycle optical drive.
3. Inspect optical drive slot for obstructions
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Is optical drive 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. Is
optical drive now listed in
System Proler?
3. Disconnect user’s optical
drive by lifting SATA cable at
logic board and connecting
a known good optical drive
assembly. Is optical drive now
listed in System Proler?
4. Install and test user’s optical
drive with replacement SATA
ex cable. Is optical drive 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 user’s optical drive
& SATA cable. Go to step 4.
No Replace logic board. M19
Yes Cable change resolved issue. X03
No Replace the optical drive.
(Mechanical damage to
optical drive, if found)
X03
J03
(J06)
2010-06-15
5. Inspect optical drive slot
for disc insert/eject. Is there
clearance for disc use?
6. Insert known-good disc and
test user’s optical drive for
acceptance of disc. Does disc
auto eject?
7. Does disc mount to desktop? Yes Go to Eject Test step 8.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 86
Yes Go to step 6.
No Replace damaged optical
drive or system top case that
interferes with disc use.
Yes Replace the optical drive.
(Mechanical damage to
optical drive, if found)
No Go to step 7.
No Go to Optical Drive
Read/Write Data Error
troubleshooting page.
J01
(J05)
X13
J03
(J06)
8. Does disc eject properly from
optical drive?
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace optical drive or top
case that interferes with disc
ejection.
J02
X13
9. With replacement ex cable
and interconnect board, is disc
now recognized?
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace optical drive. If drive
has already been replaced,
then replace logic board.
Optical Drive Read/Write Data Error
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
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 optical media in another drive of the same
type in same type of machine to rule out media
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.
J03
2010-06-15
4. Check both CD and DVD media. If only one type
of media is producing errors, there is a laser issue.
(J99)
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Is media free to spin without
optical drive scraping edge or
surface of media?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 87
Yes Go to step 2.
No Replace optical drive. J03
2. Can optical drive read both CD
and DVD known-good media?
Yes Go to step 6
No Reading CD only or DVD only
indicates laser issue, replace
optical drive.
Optical drive cannot read any
media reliably, go to step 3.
J03
3. Reseat cable connections
at logic board and optical
drive. Verify that media is now
recognized and reads reliably.
4. Disconnect optical drive by
lifting SATA cable at logic
board and connecting a
known-good optical drive.
Verify that media is now
recognized and reads reliably.
5. Install and test with
replacement optical drive SATA
ex cable. Verify that media
is now recognized and reads
reliably.
6. Test write data to compatible
CD and DVD media. Verify
burned media is recognized
and reads reliably.
Yes Reseat resolved issue. X03
No Go to step 4.
Yes SATA port functional,
reconnect user’s optical drive
& SATA cable. Go to step 5.
No Replace logic board. M19
Yes Cable change resolved issue. X03
No Replace the optical drive.
(Mechanical damage to
J03
(J05)
optical drive, if found)
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace the optical drive.
(Mechanical damage to
J03
(J06)
optical drive, if found)
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 88
Optical Drive Not Recognized/Mount
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
related issue. (J99)
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. Is optical drive 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 by
lifting SATA cable at logic
board and connecting a
known-good drive. Is optical
drive now listed in System
Proler?
4. Install and test with
replacement optical drive SATA
ex cable. Is optical drive now
listed in System Proler?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 89
Yes SATA port functional,
reconnect user’s optical drive
& SATA cable. Go to step 4.
No Replace logic board. M19
Yes Cable change resolved issue X03
No Replace the optical drive.
(Mechanical damage to
optical drive, if found)
J03
(J05)
Optical Drive Noisy
Unlikely cause: LCD, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Optical Drive Noisy
• Noise during boot
• Noise during operation
• Noise when drive is copying or
writing data
1. Test optical media in another drive of the same
type in same type of computer to rule out media
issue.
2. Check with known-good discs. Install discs that
came with the computer.
3. 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. Is 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.
2. Insert known good data CD.
Is media free to spin without
optical drive scraping edge or
surface of media? Verify disc
does not exceed maximum
thickness specication.
Yes Continue and verify with
media, go to step 2.
No Replace optical drive if
continuous activity occurs
with no disc installed.
Yes Continue and verify with
media, go to step 3.
No Internal mechanical
interference is aecting
rotational spin of media,
replace optical drive.
J04
J04
2010-06-15
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. Is noise above
normal and related to seek
activity?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 90
Yes Replace optical drive. J04
No Go to step 4.
4. Disc spin should cease 30
seconds after mounting data
CD on OS desktop. Is the noise
related to disc spin?
Yes Go to step 5.
No Go to step 6.
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 CD.
Disc handling noise should
be one pop of disc from
motor hub and a motor gear
sound driving disc out of
optical drive. Is noise above
normal and related to disc
eject activity or multiple eject
attempts?
7. Disc spin should cease 30
seconds after mounting data
CD on desktop. Media may
be mounting on a defective
internal spindle hub. Is the
noise related to disc spin?
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 Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 91
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 optical media in another drive of the same
type in same type of computer to rule out media
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 both CD and DVD media. If only one type
of media is producing errors, there might be a
laser related issue. (J99)
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Can optical drive read both CD
and DVD known-good media?
Yes Go to step 5
No Reading CD only or DVD only
indicates laser 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 by
lifting SATA cable at logic
board and connecting a
known-good drive. Verify that
media is now recognized and
reads reliably.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 92
Optical drive cannot read any
media reliably. Go to step 2.
Yes Reseat resolved issue. X03
No Go to step 3.
Yes SATA port functional,
reconnect user’s optical drive
& SATA cable. Go to step 4.
No Replace logic board. M19
4. Install and test with
replacement optical drive SATA
ex cable. Verify that media
is now recognized and reads
reliably.
Yes Cable change resolved issue. X03
No Replace optical drive.
(Mechanical damage to
optical drive, if found)
J03
(J05)
5. Test write data to compatible
CD and DVD media. Verify
burned media is recognized
and reads reliably.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace optical drive.
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.
(Mechanical damage to
optical drive, if found)
J03
(J06)
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 93
Input/Output Devices
USB Port Does Not Recognize Known 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 the for latest software update.
2. Use Apple System Proler to verify the computer
recognizes the USB bus.
3. Test 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.
Was USB device recognized?
2. Is USB device receiving power
from USB port? Note: rst
device to need >500ma will
get 1000ma, all others are
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. Is the latest Mac-compatible
USB software driver for this
USB device installed?
Yes Replace logic board. M15
No Obtain Mac-compatible USB
driver.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 94
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.
4. Press Caps Lock, if the Caps Lock light goes on
to show at least a partial connection to the main
logic board.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. If specic keys are not working,
conrm if they are physically
broken.
Yes Refer to “MacBook/
MacBook Pro: Black Keycap
Replacement” (HT4002) or
“MacBook: White Keycap
Replacement” (HT4003). If a
keycap kit is available for this
model, order kit and replace
aected key(s).
2010-06-15
2. Reseat keyboard ex cable to
logic board and verify that all
keys are functional.
3. Disconnect and verify that
keyboard ex cable is in good
condition (no delamination or
torn cable end, no missing or
cracked tracks).
Go to step 4.
No If a keycap kit is not available
for this model, replace
complete top case.
Go to step 4.
Yes Issue resolved. X99
No Go to step 3.
Yes Go to step 4.
No Replace top case. Go to step 5. K01
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) 95
K01
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. Reseat cable and
verify with ASD that all keys
are functional.
Yes Issue resolved. K01
No Replace top case. Go to step 5.
5. Verify that all keys are
functional using ASD.
Yes Issue resolved. K01
No Replace logic board. M15
Specic Keys Don’t Work
Unlikely cause: power adapter, battery, speakers, LCD, ODD/HDD, 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 the failures are not
covered by Apple warranties. Refer to
http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty
3. Inspect keycap to remove debris trapped under it.
4. If the keycap is loose, check if clasp is still intact
and reattach it.
2010-06-15
5. Refer to “MacBook/MacBook Pro: Black Keycap
Replacement” (HT4002) or “MacBook: White
Keycap Replacement” (HT4003). If a keycap kit
is available for this model, order kit and replace
aected key(s). If a kit is not available, replace
complete top case (code K01).
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 96
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Work
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.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Can you see the trackpad
continuously listed on USB in
Apple System Proler?
2. Does trackpad look damaged?
Verify trackpad alignment is
proper and click-depth set
screw is at factory setting.
Yes Go to step 5.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Replace trackpad according
to symptom found.
- No mouse/trackpad
response
- Trackpad cursor not tracking
properly
- Trackpad button issues
Go to step 6.
K02
K12
K13
2010-06-15
3. Reseat the trackpad ex cable
to the logic board. Does
trackpad work now?
4. Is the trackpad connector on
the logic board damaged?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 97
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.
5. In System Preferences:
Universal Access, turn o
special Keyboard and Mouse
& Trackpad settings. Set for
normal use, enable and test
multiple touch features. Does
trackpad work now?
Yes Settings issue resolved.
No Go to step 6
6. Does the select button click?
Verify trackpad alignment is
proper and click-depth set
screw is at factory setting.
7. Does a known-good trackpad
work?
Yes All trackpad issues resolved.
No Go to step 7
Yes Replace trackpad according
to symptom found.
- No mouse/trackpad
response
- Trackpad cursor not tracking
properly
- Trackpad button issues
K02
K12
K13
No Replace logic board. M16
2010-06-15
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 98
Built-in Keyboard Has Dim or No Keyboard Backlight
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Built-in Keyboard Has Dim or No
Backlight
• In darkened room, keyboard
backlight does not come on or
is dim.
1. Make sure this computer model has a keyboard
backlight option by checking the conguration
label in the battery bay.
2. Make sure that keyboard backlight is turned on
and brightness turned up.
3. Block the ambient light sensor to simulate
darkened room.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Make sure the “illuminate
keyboard in low light
condition” option is checked in
Keyboard System Preferences;
then cover the ambient light
sensor located on left of
camera. Did the display dim?
2. Cover the ambient light sensor
again. Did the keyboard
backlight work?
Yes Ambient light sensor is
working. Go to step 4.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Go to step 3.
2010-06-15
3. In the Apple System Proler,
can you see the AirPort and
Bluetooth cards?
4. Reseat the keyboard backlight
connection to the logic board.
Does the keyboard backlight
work now?
5. Measure the voltage between
pin 4 and pin 2 of the
keyboard backlight connector
J5815. Is there voltage present
with the running system in a
dark room?
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 99
Yes The light sensor connection
to logic board is likely good.
Replace display assembly.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Go to step 5
Yes Replace top case. K10
No Replace logic board. M99
L14
Built-in Keyboard Is Not Recognized
Unlikely cause: LCD, hard drive, optical drive
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Built-in Keyboard Is Not
Recognized
• Keystrokes not recognized
1. Reset SMC.
2. Press Caps Lock. If the Caps Lock light comes on
that indicates at least 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.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. In Apple System Proler do you
see “Apple Internal Keyboard/
Trackpad” listed under USB
hardware devices?
2. Reset SMC and verify if
keyboard/trackpad is now seen
in Apple System Proler.
Yes Go to step 3.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Go to step 3.
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 now functions
properly.
5. Verify that all keys are
functional using ASD.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 100
No Replace logic board. M15
Yes Go to step 4.
No Replace top case. Go to step 5. K11
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace top case. Go to step 5. K11
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace logic board. M15
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