Apple MacBook Pro 17 mid 2010 Service Manual
Apple Technician Guide
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
Updated 2010-06-11
Apple Inc.
© 2010 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Under the copyright laws, this document may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the
written consent of Apple.
Every eort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate. Apple
is not responsible for printing or clerical errors.
Apple
1 Innite Loop
Cupertino, CA 95014-2084
USA
+ 1 408 996 1010
www.apple.com
Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, MacBook, and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in
the U.S. and other countries.
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
Contents
Manual Updates 8
Updated 11 June 2010 8
Updated 14 May 2010 8
Feedback 8
Basics
Overview 10
Specications 10
Note About Images in This Manual 11
Battery Precautions 11
Battery Removal: Tri-Lobe Microstix #2 Screws 11
Serial Number Location 12
Serial Number On Bottom Case 12
Transferring the Serial Number 13
General Information 14
Required Tools 14
The Glass Panel 15
Keycap Replacement 15
Troubleshooting
General Troubleshooting 17
Update System Software 17
Apple Service Diagnostics 17
Test Points 17
Troubleshooting Theory 17
Hardware vs. Software 18
Clamshell Service Diagnostic Read Me 18
Emerging Issues 18
Functional Overview 19
Block Diagram, MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) 20
Liquid Contact Indicators 21
Common Reset Procedures 21
Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies 23
Symptom Charts 24
Startup and Power Issues 24
No Power 24
Won’t Start Up 27
Intermittent Shutdown 30
No Video/Bad Video 34
Battery Isn’t Recognized or Won’t Charge 37
Kernel Panic/System Crashes 40
Battery Run Time Too Short 43
Won’t Run on Power Adapter Alone 43
Power Adapter Issue 44
Noise / Hum / Vibration 46
Burnt Smell / Odor 48
Battery Leaking or Swollen 49
Uncategorized Symptom 49
Communications 50
Ethernet Port/Device Issue 50
AirPort/Bluetooth: Defective Wireless Devices 52
No/Poor Wireless Signal 55
Bluetooth Wireless Input Device Loses Connection 57
AirPort Card: Kernel Panic 59
Wireless Performance Issue / Slow Connection 60
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair 62
Uncategorized Symptom 63
Display 64
Display Anomalies 64
Defective Camera / Built-in iSight Not Operating Correctly 68
Blank / No Video 70
Backlight Issue / No Backlight 71
Noise / Unstable Flickering 73
Mechanical/Physical Damage 74
Cosmetic Defects 74
Uncategorized Symptom 74
Mass Storage 75
Hard Drive Read/Write Issue 75
Hard Drive Not Recognized/Not Mounting 76
Hard Drive Noisy 78
Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Reject Media 79
Optical Drive Read/Write Data Error 81
Optical Drive Not Recognized/Mount 82
Optical Drive Noisy 83
Optical Drive Not Performing to Specs 85
Uncategorized Symptom 86
Input/Output Devices 87
USB Port Does Not Recognize Known Devices 87
Built-in Keyboard Does Not Work Properly 88
Specic Keys Don’t Work 89
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Work 90
Built-in Keyboard Has Dim or No Keyboard Backlight 91
Built-in Keyboard Is Not Recognized 93
Built-in Trackpad Does Not Track Properly 94
Apple Remote Inoperable 95
Built-in Speaker Has No Audio 97
Distorted Sound from Internal Speaker 98
Audio: Microphone 99
Express Card Will Not Insert Into Slot 100
Express Card Not Recognized By System 101
Camera Issues 103
FireWire Port Not Recognizing Known Devices 104
Uncategorized Symptom 104
Mechanical Issues: Thermals and Enclosure 105
Reset/Power Button Stuck 105
System Runs Hot 107
Uncategorized Symptom 109
Take Apart
General Information 111
Connector Types on Logic Board 111
Icon Legend 115
Temperature Concerns 115
Screw Sizes 115
Bottom Case 116
Battery 121
Removal 122
Replacement 124
Hard Drive Bracket, Rear 126
Hard Drive 128
Removal 129
Replacement 131
Memory 133
Removal 134
Replacement 135
Camera Cable Guide 136
LVDS Cable Guide 139
Fans 142
AirPort/Bluetooth Flex Cable 144
Optical Drive 146
Optical Drive Flex Cable 150
Hard Drive Connector Cable 152
Battery Indicator Light (BIL) Cable and Board 154
Hard Drive Bracket, Front 157
Display Assembly 159
Removal 160
Replacement 161
Display Hinge Behavior 163
Display Clutch Cover 164
Removal 165
Replacement 166
AirPort/Bluetooth Holder 169
AirPort/Bluetooth Card 172
Right Speaker/Subwoofer 175
Logic Board 178
Removal 179
Replacement 182
Trackpad 184
Removal 185
Replacement 188
MagSafe Board 193
Removal 194
Replacement 195
Heatsink 196
Removal 197
Replacement 199
Left Speaker 201
Microphone Cable 204
ExpressCard Cage 206
Top Case 209
Views
Exploded View 213
Display Assembly 213
Main Assembly, 1 of 2 214
Main Assembly, 2 of 2 215
External Views 216
Front Views 216
Port View 217
Slot Drive View 218
Rear View 218
Screw Locations 219
Bottom Case 219
Battery, AirPort/Bluetooth Holder, Fans 220
Optical Drive, AirPort/Bluetooth Card 221
Logic Board 222
Battery Indicator Light (BIL), Heatsink 223
Left Speaker, Right Speaker 224
Cable Guides from Display 225
Display Assembly 226
Front Hard Drive Bracket, ExpressCard 227
MagSafe Board, Trackpad 228
Manual Updates
Updated 11 June 2010
Troubleshooting:
• General Troubleshooting: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC): Updated
steps 3 and 4
Updated 14 May 2010
Basics:
• Serial Number Location: Transfering the Serial Number: Added reference to serial number
format article CP1099
• General Information: Required Tools: Updated versions of Apple Service Diagnostic and
Apple Hardware Test
• General Information: Keycap Replacement: Added section about new keycap replacement
kit
Troubleshooting:
• Symptom Charts: Input/Output Devices: Built-In Keyboard Does Not Work Properly: Revised
step 1 of Deep Dive table for keycap kit reference
• Symptom Charts: Input/Output Devices: Specic Keys Don’t Work Properly: Revised step 5 of
Quick Check table for keycap kit reference
2010-06-11
Apple Technician Guide introduced 13 April 2010
Feedback
We want your feedback to help improve this and future Technician Guides!
Please email any comments to smfeedback4@apple.com
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Basics — Manual Updates 8
Apple Technician Guide
Basics
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
© 2010 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Overview
2010-06-11
Specications
The MacBook Pro (17-inch, MId 2010) computer features a 2.53 GHz Intel Core i5 or 2.66 GHz
Intel Core i7 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M graphics processor, and aluminum unibody
enclosure. For full technical specications, refer to AppleCare Tech Specs:
http://support.apple.com/specs/
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Basics — Overview 10
Note About Images in This Manual
Because a pre-production 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.
Screw sizes shown are approximate and indicate the total length including the screw head.
Battery Precautions
This computer contains an internal-only battery that is serviceable by Apple-authorized service
providers only. Tamper-proof screws are employed to prevent customers from attempting to
remove it.
WARNING: Every time you remove the bottom case, disconnect the battery cable from the
logic board.
WARNING: Because the battery is internal and connected to the logic board by a cable, it MUST
BE DISCONNECTED before performing service procedures. If you fail to do so, live current from
the battery will short circuit the components and render the logic board and/or LVDS cable
unusable.
2010-06-11
Battery Removal: Tri-Lobe Microstix #2 Screws
Important: Tri-lobe Microstix #2 screws secure the battery in place. Use a tri-lobe large #0
screwdriver (Apple part number 922-8991) for the battery screws.
Important: The only time the battery should be removed is when replacing these:
• battery
• trackpad
• top case
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Basics — Overview 11
Serial Number Location
Serial Number On Bottom Case
Turn over the computer to see the serial number etched on the bottom case near the hinge.
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Basics — Serial Number Location 12
Transferring the Serial Number
When replacing a bottom case, retain the customer’s bottom case until the repair is complete.
Before installing the replacement bottom case, use a ne tip permanent marker to write the
original serial number clearly and legibly in uppercase box letters directly onto the inside of the
new bottom case.
CAUTION: Take great care in deciphering the small typeface of the etched serial number
on the bottom case. You might need a magnifying glass to see it clearly. It is imperative
that you transfer the correct alphanumeric characters. Keep in mind that Apple serial
numbers always use the numbers 1 and 0 instead of the Roman letters “I” and “O.”
2010-06-11
Note: If your repair site has a bar code reader, you can also nd a set of serial numbers on the
memory card carrier (A = system; B = logic board). For information on the serial number format,
refer to
http://support.apple.com/kb/CP1099?viewlocale=en_US
Important: Do not remove the label.
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Basics — Serial Number Location 13
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
• Large tri-lobe #0 screwdriver (Apple part number 922-8991)
• Black stick (Apple probe tool, part number 922-5065) or other nonconductive nylon or
plastic atblade tool
• EMI-safe plastic or nylon tweezers for installing ex cables (optional)
• Thermal grease (Apple thermal compound syringe, part number 922-7144)
• Alcohol wipes
• Permanent marking, felt-tip pen
• Pencil with eraser
• Foam wedge xture for display assembly removal (Apple part number 922-8779)
• Kapton tape
• Tweezers, ESD safe, extra ne points, for at cable replacement
• Magnifying glass, for reading serial number etched on bottom case
• Digital volt meter (troubleshooting)
2010-06-11
Refer to Knowledge Base article “Hand Tools for Desktop and Portable Repairs--AP/CA/EU/JP/
LA/US” to purchase tools:
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3452
In addition, the following software programs are required for troubleshooting:
• Apple Service Diagnostic (ASD), version 3S136 or later
• Apple Hardware Test, version 3A185 or later
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Basics — General Information 14
The Glass Panel
Warning: The glass panel s 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.
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).
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Basics — General Information 15
Apple Technician Guide
Troubleshooting
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
© 2010 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
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
2010-06-11
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 (17-inch, Mid 2010) General Troubleshooting — Apple Service Diagnostics 17
Hardware vs. Software
For information on how to isolate a hardware issue from a software issue, refer to:
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 if 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.
Emerging Issues
2010-06-11
For the latest on troubleshooting issues, refer to Global Service Exchange (GSX) and reference
Service Source, Knowledge Base and the Service News tabs for product specic information.
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) General Troubleshooting — Hardware vs. Software 18
Functional Overview
Refer to this diagram for symptoms related to MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) logic board
connectors.
• no camera
• no camera LED (when camera is on)
• no keyboard illumination (when ALS
• no power on (flex shorting SMC)
Trackpad
+ trackpad button
+ thermal sensor:
• no cursor
movement
• no click action
• unit running slow
(when no sensor
input)
Keyboard
+ power on
button:
• no power (unless
shorting power on
pads on logic
board)
-dead keys
Right speaker / subwoofer:
• no sound from right speaker or woofer
• distorted right or center sound
SATA optical drive:
• no optical drive visible on Sata bus
• no boot from odd
AirPort / Bluetooth
antennas:
• poor / no AirPort reception
• unable to reliably pair Bluetooth
• any of these communications failing
• no startup (if flex cable is shorted)
Sleep LED
+ infrared sensor
+ magnetic sleep sensor:
• no sleep LED status
• no infrared reception
• no sleep when clamshell closed
• no video on internal display (sensor
stuck)
sensor is covered)
AirPort / Bluetooth card:
(when ALS sensor is
covered)
kernel panic
• video artifacts when
integrated GPU is used
(shared ram)
Camera + camera LED + ambient light
sensor:
Keyboard backlight:
• no keyboard illumination
Memory:
• no startup, unresponsive,
Battery (under
logic board):
• not running with
battery only
• no power on
(without a correct
model of AC
adapter present)
Fans:
• intermittent shutdown
• freezes (when too hot)
• noisy fan
ExpressCard:
• no ExpressCard
seen (on either
USB or PCI
ExpressCard
buses)
LCD + LCD backlight:
• poor / no video on internal
LCD
• no LCD backlight
SATA hard
drive:
• no hard drive
visible on Sata
bus
• no startup from
hard drive
Battery indicator LEDs
+ battery level button:
• no battery error indication
• no battery level while
charging
• no battery level shown
when button pressed
Microphone
• no integrated sound
input
Left speaker
• no left sound
• distorted left sound
Connectors located on
the opposite side of the
MLB:
MagSafe connector
(under logic board):
• no power on
• no battery charge
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) General Troubleshooting — Functional Overview 19
Block Diagram, MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) General Troubleshooting — Block Diagram, MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) 20
Liquid Contact Indicators
Liquid contact indicators (LCI) have been added to specic locations on current Mac portables
to help determine if systems have been damaged by liquid. The sensors are only visible when
the bottom case and some of the modules have been removed. Normally represented by small
white dots, the LCIs turn red when they have come in contact with liquid, such as an accidental
spill.
For more information, refer to Knowledge Base article HT3400: “About Liquid contact indicators
(LCI) on portable computers.” http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3400
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 by choosing Shutdown from the Apple () menu.
2. Connect the power adapter to the computer and to a working power source.
3. Important: Use the keys on the left side of the keyboard. On the built-in keyboard, press
Shift-Control-Option along with the power button once.
Note: When the LED on the MagSafe connector is orange, resetting the SMC will change it
to green for a few seconds, indicating that SMC was correctly reset.
4. Wait 5 seconds and press the power button to restart the computer. Note: If bottom case
is removed, you may alternately reset the SMC by disconnecting the power adapter and the
main battery, and holding the power button down for ve seconds.
For more information:
http://www.apple.com/support
HT1411—Apple Portables: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) <http://
support.apple.com/kb/HT1411>
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) General Troubleshooting — Liquid Contact Indicators 21
Resetting the Parameter RAM (PRAM)
To reset PRAM,
1. If the computer is on, turn it o.
2. Locate the following keys on the keyboard: Command, Option, P, and R. You will need to
hold these keys down simultaneously in Step 4.
Note: If the keyboard does not have an Option key, use the Alt key instead.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. Press and hold the Command-Option-P-R keys.
Important: You must press this key combination before the gray screen appears.
5. Hold 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>
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) General Troubleshooting — Common Reset Procedures 22
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.
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) General Troubleshooting — Display Issue: Pixel Anomalies 23
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. Run Battery Diagnostic Utility.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Isolate peripherals as cause.
Disconnect all peripherals and
external devices and verify that
unit starts.
Yes Suspect peripherals as cause.
Reconnect devices one at a
time, verifying unit operation
as external devices are
reinstalled.
2010-06-11
No Go to step 2
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 24
2. Reset SMC (remove all system
power for 1 minute), and verify
unit starts. Can system start up
after SMC reset.
Yes Corrupt SMC state preventing
power on. Issue resolved with
SMC reset.
No Go to step 3
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.
4. Original battery may be run
down, or not recognized.
Verify original battery in
a known-good system is
recognized and accepting
a charge. Conrm original
battery is not consumed nor
defective.
Yes System can start up from
known-good battery -original battery possibly at
fault or needs to be charged.
Continue to verify original
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
Yes Battery is recognized,
charging and health is
good. Return to test unit
with original battery and AC
adapter power. Go to step 6.
No Replace original battery for
not charging (P10) or not
recognized (P11). Customer
to purchase a replacement
battery if consumed.
P11
P10
or
P11
2010-06-11
5. Inspect battery cable
connection at logic board and
reseat if necessary. Replace
battery if battery cable is
damaged or burned. Verify if
the system powers on from a
charged battery.
6. Inspect MagSafe power
adapter. Verify AC adapter is
correct wattage, compatible
with product and works on
known-good computer.
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 25
Yes Battery power restored, retest
unit with original 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.
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
P14
7. Inspect MagSafe port on
computer for physical damage,
debris or metal fragments
attracted to magnetic
connector. Verify if MagSafe
connector is clean and free
from defects.
Yes Go to step 8
No Clean port assembly. Replace
MagSafe board if necessary.
X03
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.
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.
10. Remove two screws on metal
cable cover to access keyboard
connector and plug a known
good powered AC adapter.
-Try to power system using top
case power key. If no power on,
reseat keyboard ex cable to
logic board and retest.
If no power on , short the two
pads (as illustrated) and verify
if system powers on.
- If no power on, the power
key may be stuck. Disconnect
keyboard cable and try
shorting the two pads again.
Verify if system powers on.
Yes System starts and has power.
MagSafe LED indicates power
is owing to logic board.
Verify original 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
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.
Yes Power on key works ne, issue
resolved.
Power on key works after
keyboard cable is reseated.
Issue resolved.
Power on key was stuck, had
to disconnect keyboard cable
to be able to power on by
shorting pin 5 to ground.
Replace top case for stuck
power on key.
No No logic board power on
when shorting power button
pads on logic board.
Replace logic board.
P11
X03
M21
K05
M01
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 26
Won’t Start Up
Unlikely cause: display assembly, speakers, fan, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Power but No start up
• No startup chime, some video
activity, Apple logo, startup
spin dial
• Startup chime with possible
beep tones.
• Fan, hard drive spin or optical
drive reset sound
• Sleep LED is on , blinking or
went out
• Caps Lock LED toggles when
pressed
1. Reset SMC.
2. Verify startup process passes initial memory
checks – no beep errors or ashing sleep LED
indicators. Display activity is starting up.
3. Clear PRAM. Verify starts up from user drive.
4. Connect known-good external bootable device
and press 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.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Reset SMC and Clear PRAM to
set default startup device to
internal hard disk drive (HDD).
Yes User hard drive bootable,
issue resolved default
settings.
2010-06-11
2. Verify if system is indicating a
memory error with a repeated
1 or 3 ashes sequence of
sleep LED or beep tones (if
sound is enabled).
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 27
No 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
3. Reseat original memory and/or
swap in known-good memory
to isolate bad memory and
replace defective parts.
Yes Original memory defective
and replaced. Continue to
verify startup process. Go to
step 4
X02
4. Hold the Alt (Option) key
during startup and verify there
is a bootable hard drive shown
in Startup Manager. Choose
original hard drive. Verify if
system can start up from this
drive.
5. Insert product OS install disc
in optical drive. Install disc
is bootable and should be
present in Startup Manager.
Verify if system can 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.
No Should known-good memory
fail in one or more slots,
replace logic board.
Yes System starting up from
original hard drive. Startup
issue resolved
No Original hard drive not
present or does not start up
from this drive. Continue to
nd bootable device. Go to
step 5
Yes Starts up from optical drive;
original 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
M07
M02
2010-06-11
7. Troubleshoot optical drive
cable connection, optical cable
failure or optical drive failure
step by step:
-Reseat optical drive cable and
retest,
-Replace with known-good
optical drive cable and retest,
-Test with known-good optical
drive.
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 28
Yes Cable reseat solved issue.
Continue to verify hard drive
issues, go to step 8
Defective optical drive cable
X03
found and replaced. Continue
to verify hard drive issues, go
to step 8
Defective optical drive found
J03
and replaced. Continue to
verify hard drive issues, go to
step 8
No Replace logic board M19
8. Use Disk Utility loaded from
OS install disc to verify if hard
drive is available on device list.
Verify if original hard drive is
listed in Disk Utility.
Yes Original 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.
9. Troubleshoot hard drive cable
connection, cable failure or
drive failure step by step:
-Reseat hard drive cable and
retest,
-Replace with known-good
hard drive cable and retest,
-Test with known-good hard
drive.
10. Boot system with Shift Key
down. Verify if system boots in
Safe Mode.
11. Use Disk Utility to repair
original hard drive and repair
permissions if system OS found
on hard drive. Verify if hard
drive is bootable after software
repairs.
Yes Reseat of SATA cable now
shows original hard drive
visible in Disk Utility, go to
step 10
Defective hard drive SATA
cable found and replaced,
Now original hard drive is
visible in Disk Utility, go to
step 10
Suspect original hard drive
defective, attempt OS restore,
go to step 10
No Known-good hard drive and
known-good hard drive cable
used, but still no hard drive
seen. Replace logic board
Yes Go to software
troubleshooting article
No Go to step 11
Yes OS on original hard drive
repaired, issue resolved.
No Hard drive not bootable,
perhaps missing OS, go to
step 12
X03
M19
2010-06-11
12. Use Disk Utility to partition
original hard drive with one
GUID partition then restore
Mac OS from product OS install
disc. Verify if hard drive is
bootable after OS instal.
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 29
Yes Original hard drive now starts
up from new OS image, issue
resolved
No Replace hard drive. H02
Intermittent Shutdown
Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive
Troubleshooting Shutdown Issues
Before troubleshooting shutdown issues, always do the following:
• Run the available Apple diagnostics to check for cause of previous shutdown(s). Running
ASD also helps isolate any abnormal value reading from a thermal, voltage, or current
sensor or from a fan speed meter.
• Collect all available information from the user on shutdown details: periodicity, power state
when issue happens, running applications, running time before shutdown.
User-related shutdowns
A computer shutdown may be caused by user operation. Shutting down the computer (by
selecting the Shut Down menu, by pressing the power button for at least 4 seconds, or by
programming a timed shutdown in the Energy Saver preferences) should not be considered as
a failure unless the power button or the magnetic sleep sensors are found to be defective.
Suggested steps for troubleshooting:
• Reset SMC.
• Check Energy Saver preferences settings.
• Test top case button and magnetic sleep sensor operation and secure connection to logic
board.
Activity-related system shutdowns
These shutdowns are linked to system settings, devices drivers, applications, or operating
system freezes.
• System could not nish the standard shutdown process and had to force shutdown.
• An installed watchdog detected that an application did not respond within the specied
time. (This watchdog can be enabled in Mac OS X Server Energy Saver preferences.)
Suggested steps for troubleshooting:
• Check the system logs and activity monitor utility for clues on the freezing process.
• Check for available software and rmware updates for installed device drivers, applications,
or operating system.
• Start the system from a known-good and up-to-date bootable drive for issue reproduction.
Power-related system shutdowns
These shutdowns are due to power management, poor connections or defective power
sources.
• External or battery power source was removed.
• Battery went empty while computer was on.
• Battery went empty while computer was asleep.
2010-06-11
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power Issues 30
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