Apple MacBook 15 late 2008 Service Manual

Apple Technician Guide

MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)

Updated:2010-06-15

Apple Inc.

© 2008 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

Under the copyright laws, this document may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Apple.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate. Apple is not responsible for printing or clerical errors.

Apple

1 Infinite Loop Cupertino, CA 95014-2084 USA

+ 1 408 996 1010 www.apple.com

Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, MacBook, and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Please send feedback to [e-mail].

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 Configurations   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
Specific 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:Specific 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

Take Apart:

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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

Troubleshooting:

• General Troubleshooting:Added information on Apple Hardware Test.There are two

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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 fifth 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 flex cable first, 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 off 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.

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 flex cables

•Symptom Charts

•Updated Intermittent Shutdown/Deep Dive/Step 6/Yes Action and Code changed from X03 to M08

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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/ Specific 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 offered 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

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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

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 differences 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 identification label is on top case inside front edge, visible when the access door and battery are removed.

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MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Basics — Overview  13

Product Configurations

The following table shows the MacBook (15-inch, Late 2008) model configurations 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		2.8 GHz 6 MB L2 CTO
			1066MHz frontside bus
Graphics	NVIDIA GeForce 9400M		NVIDIA GeForce 9400M
	(MCP79) + NVIDIA GeForce		(MCP79) + NVIDIA
	9600M GT 256MB VRAM		GeForce 9600M GT
			512MB VRAM
Memory, DDR3 1066, SO-DIMMs	2 GB (2 x 1 GB)		4 GB (2 x 2 GB)
Hard Drive, Serial ATA 100 5400	2.5”SATA, 250 GB, 5400		2.5”, 320 GB SATA , 5400
rpm	Option:up to 320GB at 7200		Option:up to 320GB at
	rpm or 128GB SSD		7200 rpm or 128GB SSD
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,
	glossy finish
I/O	USB:2- USB 2.0 (1 high powered)
	FireWire:1-FW800
	Video I/O:Mini Display Port
	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 differences in appearance between the image pictured and the computer you are servicing. However, although the appearance may differ, the steps and sequence are the same unless noted.

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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.

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 flat blade screw driver and transfer it to the inside edge of the replacement top case (see arrow for location).

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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 flatblade tool

•Thermal grease (Apple thermal compound syringe, part number 922-7144)

•Alcohol wipes

•Foam wedge fixture for display assembly removal (part number 922-8779)

•Kapton tape

•Tweezers, ESD safe, extra fine points, for flat 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

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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.

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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 different 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 differences among keycap procedures, refer to “MacBook/MacBook Pro:Keycap Replacement Matrix”(HT4001).

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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 firmware 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 flex
TB0T	Battery pack
TB1T	Battery pack
TB2T	Battery pack
TB3T	Battery pack

Test Points

There is no silkscreen text on final 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

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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 benefits 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 conflicts.

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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 fifth digits in the system serial number. See examples below.

•Apple Hardware Test 3A147 to be used on systems with the third, fourth, and fifth 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 fifth serial number digits equal to or higher than 911. Example:Serial number W 8 9 1 1 7 0 R I G A

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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.

Clamshell to Airport, Bluetooth, webcam and ambient light sensor:

-any of these communications failing -no keyboard backlight -no startup if shorted AP

Sata optical drive:

-no odd visible, -no boot from odd

Right Speaker:

-no sound from right speaker or woofer

-distorted right or center sound

Sata hard drive:

-no hdd visible

- no boot from hd

Sleep led+ Infrared sensor + magnetic sleep sensor:

-no sleep led status, -no infrared reception,

-no sleep when clamshell closed,

-wakes from sleep

-no video on internal display (if

Trackpad + trackpad button thermal sensor:

-no cursor movement, -no click action

-unit running slow (no sensor input)

Keyboard backlight:		Fans:		LCD + backlight:		Magsafe connector
-no keyboard backlight		-intermittent shutdown		-no video on internal lcd		(underneath mlb):
		-freezes		-no backlight		-no power on
		-noisy fan				-no battery charge

Ram:

-no boot, -freezes and kernel panic -video artifacts

Connectors located on the other side of the MLB:

Thermal module sensor no( startup, system shutdown,

or freezes)

Left speaker

no( left sound, distorted left sound)

Microphone

no- integrated sound inpu t

Battery		Battery		Keyboard +		ExpressCard:
indicator leds + battery		(underneath mlb):		power on		-Expresscard not
level test button:		-not running when		button:		recognized
-no battery error indication,		battery only		-no power
-no battery level while		-no power on		-dead keys
charging
-no battery level shown if
button pressed

MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) General Troubleshooting — Functional Overview  23

2010-06-15

Block Diagram, MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)

Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.

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MacBookPro(15-inch,Late2008)GeneralTroubleshooting—BlockDiagram,MacBookPro(15-inch,Late2008)  24

Liquid Submersion Indicators

Liquid submersion indicators (LSI) have been added to specific 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 off.

2.Disconnect the power adapter and remove the main battery.

3.Hold the power button down for five 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 off.

2.Locate the following keys on the keyboard:Command, Option, P, and R.You will need to hold these keys down simultaneously in Step 4.

Note:If the keyboard does not have an Option key, use the Alt key instead.

3.Turn on the computer.

4.Press and hold the Command-Option-P-R keys.

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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>

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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 off
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 specifications, and no repair is necessary.

Important:Do not release the specifications 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 off.

•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 affected subpixel being turned on (bright) or turned off (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 significantly increase the retail price for products using LCD displays.These factors apply to all manufacturers using LCD technology—not just Apple products.

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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, fluid 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.

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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 final 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		1.	Verify AC power presence with MagSafe LED
	•	No power		indicating on or charge state.
	•	No image	2.	Verify battery status as being partly charged,
	•	No startup chime		charging with AC power.
	• No fan or hard drive spin		3.	Reset SMC.
	• No reset sound from optical
			4.	Refer to Deep Dive table for battery diagnostic
		drive
				testing.
	• No sleep LED activity
	• No light if Caps Lock pressed
	•	Non-operational

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MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts 29

Deep Dive

Check		Result	Action	Code
1.	Isolate peripherals as cause.	Yes	Suspect peripherals as cause.
	Disconnect all peripherals and		Reconnect each one at a time,
	external devices and verify unit		verifying unit operation as
	starts.		external device is reinstalled.
		No	Go to step 2
2.	Reset SMC, and verify unit	Yes	Corrupt SMC state preventing
	starts. (Alternative hardware		power on. Issue resolved with
	SMC reset can be forced by		SMC reset.
	shorting R5001 pads on logic
	board or removing all system
		No	Go to step 3
	power for 1 minute.) Can
	system start up after SMC
	reset?
3.	Will system power up with	Yes	System can start up from	P11
	battery only? Check battery		known-good battery --
	level LED indicator for status		customer battery possibly at
	of battery charge or battery		fault or needs to be charged.
	use error. Inspect battery		Continue to verify customer
	connector for burn marks or		battery then AC adapter use
	damaged pins if substituting a		and battery charging. Go to
	known-good battery to verify		step 4.
	starting on battery.
		No	System will not power using
			known-good battery only. Go
			to step 5
4.	Customer battery may be run	Yes	Battery is recognized,
	down, or not recognized.		charging and health is good.
	Verify customer battery in		Return to test unit with
	a known-good system is		customer battery and AC
	recognized and accepting a		adapter power. Go to step 6.
	charge. Confirm customer
	battery is not consumed nor	No	Replace customer battery	P10
	defective.
			for not charging (P10) or not	or
			recognized (P11). Customer	P11
			to purchase a replacement
			battery if consumed.

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MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) Symptom Charts 30