Apple mac mini mid 2010 Service Manual

 Apple Technician Guide

Mac mini (Mid 2010)

Mac mini (Mid 2010) and Mac mini Server (Mid 2010)
Updated 2010-8-3
 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.
Apple 1 Innite Loop Cupertino, CA 95014-2084 USA + 1 408 996 1010 www.apple.com
Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Mac mini (Mid 2010)

Contents

About This Guide
Manual Updates 7
Update 3 August 2010 7 Apple Technician Guide introduced 15 June 2010 7
Feedback 7
Basics
Overview 9
Identifying Features 10 Product Congurations 10 Service Part Congurations 11 System Serial Number Location 11
Troubleshooting
General Troubleshooting 13
Update System Software 13 Apple Diagnostics 13 Troubleshooting Theory 13 Hardware vs. Software 13 Common Reset Procedures 14 Wireless Troubleshooting 15 Block Diagram 16 Functional Overview 17
Symptom Charts 18
Startup and Power 18
No Power, Dead Unit 18 Won’t Start Up 21 Intermittent Shutdown 24 Kernel Panic, System Crashes 28 No Video 30 Corrupted Video 31 Burnt Smell/Odor 33 Noise, Hum, Vibration 34
Communications 37
AirPort/Bluetooth Issues 37 Ethernet Port/Device Issue 41 Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair 43
Display 47 No Video 47
Uncategorized Symptom 50
Mass Storage 51
Hard Drive(s) Not Recognized 51 Hard Drive Read/Write Error 53 Hard Drive Noisy 54 Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Eject Media 59 Optical Drive Not Performing to Specications 62 Optical Drive Noisy 63 Uncategorized Symptoms 65
Input/Output Devices 66
Apple Remote Inoperable 66 Audio: Built-in Speaker Has Distorted Sound 67 Audio: Built-in Speaker Has No Audio 68 Audio: No Audio through HDMI or Mini DisplayPort connection. 70 FireWire Devices Not Recognized 71 SD (Secure Digital) Memory Card Will Not Insert Into Slot 73 SD (Secure Digital) Memory Card Not Recognized By System 74 USB Devices Not Recognized 76 Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly 78 Keyboard: Specic Keys Do Not Respond 80 Wired Keyboard/Mouse Not Recognized 80 Uncategorized Symptoms 82
Mechanical 83
Noise/Hum/Vibration 83 System Runs Hot 85 Physical Damage 86 Uncategorized Symptoms 87
Take Apart
General Information 89
Tools 89 Cosmetic Care 89 Reassembly Steps 89 Connector Types on Logic Board 90 Thermal Sensor Replacement 91 Logic Board EMI Fingers and Gaskets 97 Logic Board Return 97 First Remove Hierarchy 98 Icon Legend 99 Note About Images In This Guide 99
Bottom Cover 100
Removal 101 Reassembly 102
Memory 103
Fan 106
Reassembly 108
Cowling 109
Reassembly 110
Antenna Plate 111
Reassembly 113
Logic Board 115
Removal 116 Reassembly 122
AirPort/Bluetooth Combo Card 123
Speaker 126
Battery 129
Hard Drive 131
Removal 132 Reassembly 133
Power Supply 134
Reassembly 137
Optical Drive / Hard Drive (Server) 138
IR Board and Cable 141
Reassembly 142
Housing 144
Views
Exploded View 146
Exploded View (Server) 147
Screw Chart 148
External Views 149
Front View 149 Front View - Server 149 Port View 150
 Apple Technician Guide

About This Guide

Mac mini (Mid 2010)
Mac mini (Mid 2010) and Mac mini Server (Mid 2010)
© 2010 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

Manual Updates

Update 3 August 2010

Take Apart:
• Added information and replacement procedures for thermal sensors to the General Information, Hard Drive, Optical Drive and Views chapters.
• Added additional graphic to Memory chapter showing a pulling action with ngers to verify fully seated memory.

Apple Technician Guide introduced 15 June 2010

This manual covers the two Mac mini products developed in Mid 2010:
• Mac mini (Mid 2010)
• Mac mini Server (Mid 2010)

Feedback

We want your feedback to help improve this and future Technician Guides! Please email any comments to: smfeedback5@apple.com
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Basics — Manual Updates 7
 Apple Technician Guide

Basics

Mac mini (Mid 2010)
Mac mini (Mid 2010) and Mac mini Server (Mid 2010)
© 2010 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

Overview

Introducing the Mac mini (Mid 2010) with a completely new slimline aluminum housing design, HDMI port, SD card slot, integrated power supply, and easy access to memory and internal parts.
This manual covers the two Mac mini products developed in Mid 2010:
• Mac mini (Mid 2010), shown above on left
• Mac mini Server (Mid 2010), shown above on right
The Mac mini (Mid 2010) is a follow-on product to the Mac mini (Late 2009).
• Main changes from the previous model (Mac mini (Late 2009)) are:
• Easy customer-installable RAM access
• Logic board assembly removal requires a special tool:
- Logic board removal tool: 922-9588
• HDMI port (instead of Mini-DVI)
• SD card slot
• 4 USB ports (instead of 5)
• No Interconnect board
• Internal power supply
• Take Apart:
• Take apart method is completely dierent
• All parts are new and specic to the Mid 2010
• No-tool access through the bottom cover
• A new tool is required to remove the logic board assembly
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Basics — Overview 9

Identifying Features

The Mac mini (Mid 2010) computer features include:
• Low-prole housing design
• Service access is through the bottom cover, which is removed without tools.
• HDMI port
• SD card slot
• 4 USB ports
• Internal power supply
• Increased processor speeds:
- 2.4 GHz Dual-Core
- 2.66 GHz Dual-Core (CTO and Server)
• NVDIA GeForce 320M graphics
• Memory:
- 2GB
- 4GB (CTO)
- 8GB (CTO and Server)
• Hard drives:
- 320 GB, SATA, 5400
- 500 GB, SATA, 5400 (CTO)
- dual 500 GB SATA, 7200 (Server)
• Mac OS X Snow Leopard
Product Congurations
To conrm the conguration from the Apple menu, choose About This Mac. The processor listing will show the speed of the processor followed by the processor type.
For product congurations, refer to Apple Support Tech Specs: http://support.apple.com/
specs/
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Basics — Overview 10
Service Part Congurations
• Logic board assembly removal requires a special tool:
- Logic board removal tool (922-9588)
• Although the thermal sensor on the ex cable of the top hard drive can be replaced by replacing the ex cable, the other thermal sensors on the hard drives or optical drive are not replaceable. To replace the sensor, a replacement drive must be ordered.
• The logic board assembly consists of:
- logic board, with battery
- I/O wall, including two antennas
- speaker and screws
- wireless card ex cable
- wireless card screws
- cowling snap screw

System Serial Number Location

The Mac mini (Mid 2010) serial number is located on the bottom of the housing.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Basics — Overview 11
 Apple Technician Guide

Troubleshooting

Mac mini (Mid 2010)
Mac mini (Mid 2010) and Mac mini Server (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.
Firmware is the name given to software that is written into memory circuits such as ash memory, that will hold the software code indenitely, even when power is removed from the hardware. Firmware on Intel Mac computers is designed to be updated if necessary by running the Mac OS X Software Update check (available in the Apple menu) while the computer is connected to the Internet. For more information about rmware updates, refer to:
About rmware updates for Intel-based Macs—kBase # HT1557

Apple Diagnostics

Run diagnostics to determine if any of the modules are malfunctioning.
• Mac mini (Mid 2010): Apple Diagnostics: 3S139
• Mac mini Server (Mid 2010): Apple Server Diagnostics: 3X107
• Apple Hardware Test: 3A191 (not used for server)

Troubleshooting Theory

For general information on troubleshooting theory, go to GSX and nd the Service Training course menu link. From there you can access the Troubleshooting Theory self-paced course.

Hardware vs. Software

For information on how to isolate a hardware issue from a software issue, refer to:
Isolating issues in Mac OS X—kBase #TS1388
For information on how to troubleshoot a software issue, refer to:
Mac OS X: How to troubleshoot a software issue—kBase #HT1199 Mac OS X: Troubleshooting installation and software updates—kBase #TS1394 Troubleshooting Mac OS X installation from CD or DVD—kBase #HT2956
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Troubleshooting 13

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. Unplug all cables from computer, including power cord.
2. Wait at least 15 seconds. The SMC reset occurs automatically once the Mac mini has been
unplugged from AC power source for several seconds.
3. Plug power cord back in, making sure power button is not being pressed.
4. Reconnect keyboard and mouse to computer.
5. Press power button on back to start up computer.
Resetting the SMC means you will also need to reset the date and time (using the Date & Time pane of System Preferences).
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.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Troubleshooting 14
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 Mac OS X: What is Safe Boot, Safe Mode?—kBase #HT1564 Safe Boot takes longer than normal startup—kBase #TS1884

Wireless Troubleshooting

If you’re having issues with AirPort and wireless mouse or keyboard connectivity issues, refer to the following Knowledge Base articles:
Troubleshooting wireless mouse and keyboard issues—kBase #TS3048
AirPort and Bluetooth: Potential sources of interference for wireless devices and
networks—kBase #HT1365
Apple Wireless Keyboard and Mouse: How to install batteries—kBase #HT3903
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Troubleshooting 15

Block Diagram

Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.
Core 2 Duo
Processor
Line In/
Digital In
Line Out/
SIL
Digital
Out
Internal
Internal
speaker
Speaker
amp
Audio
Codec
System
Management
Controller
DDR3 DIMM
DRAM Channel-0
DDR3 DIMM
DRAM Channel-1
SPI ROM
Power system management
Dual-channel 128 bit Memory Controller DDR3 1066MHz
SMBus
SPI ROM Interface
HD AUDIO
Serial ATA
6 devices
FSB
1066Mhz
GeForce
320M
GPU
System
Clocks
USB 2.0 12 ports
DP0/TMDS0
DP1/TMDS0
PCIe x1
RGMII
PCI (4 ports)
PCIe x1
PCIe x1
Ethernet/
SD Controller
PCIe x1
FireWire
MDI
Mini-DP Connector
HMDI Connector
Delta
LFE
FW800
Ethernet
10/100/1000 Mbit
SD/XC
Reader
2x AP antennas
Card
Temp/Volt/
Current
Sensors
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Optical
ODD
HDD
SATA
HDD
SATA
AirPort/Bluetooth Card
USB
USB
USB
IR Receiver
4 rear USB Connectors
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Troubleshooting 16

Functional Overview

ODD Thermal Sensor :
- fan running fast
Fan :
- not running or running fast
- system freezes
- intermittent shutdown
Ambient Thermal sensor :
- fan running fast
- system freezes
- intermittent shutdown
SATA Optical Drive
(or 2nd SATA Hard Drive):
- no ODD visible in profiler
- no boot from optical drive
- media does not insert
- no second HDD visible in
- slower burning speed
profiler
- system freezes
InfraRed Sensor + sleep
LED :
- no infrared reception
cable)
- no power ON (shorted
- no sleep led status.
Power Supply (on opposite
side of logic board):
- no power on
supply thermal sensor not
read).
- intermittent shutdown
- fan running fast (power
HD Thermal Sensor :
- fan running fast
- hard drive failure
Power ON button :
- system freezes
is pressed
(on opposite side of logic
board):
- no power on when button
2010-08-03
drive
SATA Hard Drive :
- no HDD visible in profiler
- no boot from internal hard
wireless driver)
Internal Speaker :
Airport/Bluetooth Card :
- cannot enable Bluetooth
- cannot enable AirPort
- kernel panic (when loading
- no internal speaker sound
speaker
- distorted sound from internal
Backup Battery (on opposite
side of logic board) :
- lost date and time settings
- lost other settings
- no startup/video
Heatsink Thermal Sensor :
- fan running fast
- intermittent shutdown
Memory Modules:
- no boot
- system freeze or kernel panic
- video artifacts
- system freezes
Functional Overview:
Connector locations, and the
possible symptoms when cable is
disconnected, mis-connected or
shorted.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Troubleshooting 17

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

Startup and Power

No Power, Dead Unit
Unlikely cause: speakers
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
No Power, Dead Unit
• No power
• No LED
• No fan spin
• No startup chime
• No image on external display
• No hard drive or optical drive activity
1. Verify power source.
2. Verify power cable.
3. Listen closely for signs of activity from system
including: rotating fans, hard drive or optical drive activity, startup chime, etc. If there is activity then go to the ‘Startup and Power Issues’ symptom ow.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 18
Deep Dive
Unlikely cause: speakers
Check Result Action Code
1. Connect AC to computer and
press the power button on system. Verify if there is any indication that the system has powered up (fan rotation, hard drive or optical drive noise, ...).
2. Reseat the installed SDRAM memory module(s) and retest. Does the computer start up properly now?
3. Replace installed SDRAM memory module(s) with known-good one. Does the computer start up properly now?
4. Remove bottom cover, disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then disconnect the following cables from logic board before being able to extract it :HDD, ODD/HDD, Ambient sensor, HD sensor, ODD/HD sensor, IR/ LED cable. Check and reseat power button cable connection to logic board and verify if the unit powers on.
Yes The system is powering up.
Jump to Won’t Start Up
symptom ow.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Badly seated SDRAM memory
module. Reseating it resolved issue.
No Go to step 3
Yes Replace defective user’s
SDRAM memory module.
No Go to step 4
Yes Reseating the power button
connector on logic board resolved the issue.
No Go to step 5.
2010-08-03
5. Remove the coin battery on the logic board, and leave out for approximately 1 minute. Then reinstall the battery. This will reset the logic board. Does the computer startup properly now?
Yes Issue resolved by logic board
reset. Measure DC voltage on the battery touching the battery with the red probe, and grounding with the black probe. If voltage is 2.7v or less, replace the battery. See KBase article http://support.apple.
com/kb/HT3250 for details
on using a digital multi-meter.
No Go to step 6.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 19
M20
6. Disconnect power button
connector from logic board and short the two power button connector pins on logic board. Verify if the unit powers on.
Yes Replace Power Button
assembly
No Go to step 7
X03
7. Disconnect AirPort/Bluetooth
card, Hard Drive, Optical Drive and LED/IR Sensor cables from logic board. Connect AC cable and press the power button to verify if a startup error tone is heard.
8. Disconnect the power supply cable from logic board , connect AC cable and use a multimeter to verify that a 12 Volts voltage is present between the two outer pins of cable. See KBase article
http://support.apple.com/kb/ HT3250 for details on using a
digital multi-meter
Yes Reconnect one by one each
device and retest to identify the shorting one. When found, replace aected device cable rst, and retest.
No Go to step 8
Yes Power supply is present.
Replace logic board and retest.
No Replace cable between power
supply and logic board and retest. If issue persists after cable was replaced, replace power supply and retest.
X03
M01
X03
P01
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Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 20
Won’t Start Up
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Won’t Start Up
• No startup chime
• Error tones during startup.
• Grey screen with fan noise, or other noise.
• Will not progress beyond Apple logo or spinning gear.
1. Isolate by starting up from :
-the original install DVD media inserted in Mac mini optical drive or in the optical drive of another computer set up in FireWire Target Disk Mode ,
-from the same Mac mini model setup in FireWire Target Disk Mode,
-from a compatible known-good OS on an external drive. Note that both AirPort and Bluetooth services are available when booted from the Mac mini Install DVD.
2. Reset SMC and PRAM to clear any stored, corrupted information.
3. Start up in Safe Mode by holding the shift key down during startup to load only required kernel extensions and disable all startup and login items. See KBase article
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564
4. If system generates error tones there may be an
issue with the SDRAM or backup battery. See KBase article
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2341
2010-08-03
5. Identifying when in the startup process the computer hangs can help isolate the issue. See KBase article
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2674
for information on the Macintosh startup sequence, error codes and symbols used.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 21
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Insert Mac mini Install DVD in
optical drive (or in the optical drive of another computer set up in FireWire Target Disk Mode) and boot the computer with the D keyboard key pressed to run Apple Hardware Test. Does the computer boot up to this volume?
2. Remove the installed SDRAM, and test with known-good SDRAM. Does the computer startup properly now?
3. Connect a known-good 10.6.X up-to-date bootable external USB drive, FireWire drive, or similar system setup in FireWire Target Disk Mode, and press the Alt key on startup to select and attempt to boot from it. Does it boot?
Yes Run the extended tests
and proceed with results. If AHT passes or boots with a memory error, go to step 2.
No Go to step 2.
Yes SDRAM issue. Replace SDRAM.
Issue resolved.
No Go to step 3.
Yes Use the Apple System Proler
to check for presence of both Hard Drive and Optical SATA drives. Run Disk First Aid to check internal hard drive health and repair (check SMART Status, Repair disk and Privileges).
If the hard drive in not recognized, go to Hard Drive
Not Recognized
X02
4. Remove bottom cover,
disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then disconnect the following cables from logic board before being able to extract it :HDD, ODD/HDD, Ambient sensor, HD sensor, ODD/HD sensor, IR/LED cable. Is there a gray screen with a ashing folder?
If the optical drive is not recognized, go to Optical
Drive not recognized.
No Go to Step 4.
Yes Reconnect only the optical /
second hard drive cable to logic board and go to Step 5
No Replace logic board. M02
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 22
5. Power on system, press the C key on keyboard , insert the original Mac mini 10.6.X Install DVD in internal optical drive (or in the optical drive of another computer set up in FireWire Target Disk Mode) and attempt to boot from it. Does it boot?
Yes Reconnect the hard drive
cable to logic board and go to step 6
No If the optical drive is not
recognized, go to Optical
Drive not recognized.
6. Power on system, press the Alt
key on keyboard and attempt to boot the system from the Internal hard drive. Does it boot?
Yes System is booting. Issue does
No If the hard drive in not
Intermittent Shutdown
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Intermittent Shutdown
• Powers o during startup.
• Powers o during desktop use.
• Computer restarts spontaneously.
• Powers o when waking from sleep.
1. Isolate OS by starting up from original Install media for the computer, the same make and model computer in Target Disk Mode, or compatible known-good OS on an external drive. Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are available when booted from the Install disk.
2. Reset SMC and PRAM to clear any stored, corrupted information.
not happen anymore.
recognized, go to Hard Drive
Not Recognized
2010-08-03
3. Start up in Safe Mode by holding the shift key down during startup to load only required kernel extensions and disable all startup and login items. See KBase article
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564
4. Open System Preferences > Energy Saver >
Schedule and make sure that a ‘Shut Down’ event is not scheduled.
5. Make sure that power cord is securely attached to the back of the computer, and is not hindered by a desk or other furniture.
6. Plug the computer directly into an AC outlet to test whether a surge protector, outlet strip, or UPS is causing the issue.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 23
Intermittent Shutdown
Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive
Troubleshooting Shutdown Causes
Always run the latest available service utilities, to look for the possible cause of a previous shutdown. These utilities will permit to isolate any abnormal value readings from the thermal, voltage, or current sensor(s), and from the fan(s) speed meter(s).
Collect all available info from user on shut down occurrence details: periodicity, connected devices, running applications, running time before shutdown.
Shutdown events could be categorized between four dierent types of causes.
User-related shut downs :
A computer shut down event may be caused by user operation. Shutting down the computer (by selecting the Shutdown menu, by keeping pressed 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 is found to be defective, so the suggested steps for troubleshooting will be:
- to reset the SMC,
- to check Energy Saver preferences settings,
- to check the Power On button functionality, and its secure connection to logic board.
Activity-related system shut downs :
- system could not succeed the standard shutdown process and had to force shutdown,
- an installed watchdog detected that an application did not respond within specied time (this watchdog can be enabled on Mac OS X Server Energy Saver preferences) These shut downs may be linked to system settings, devices drivers, applications or operating system freezes, so the suggested steps for troubleshooting will be:
- to check the system logs and activity monitor utility for clues on the freezing process,
- to check for available software and rmware updates for installed device drivers, applications, or operating system,
- to start the system from a known-good and up-to-date bootable drive for issue reproduction.
Power-related system shut downs :
-External AC power source was removed,
-External AC power source was removed and UPS battery went empty. These shut downs are due to power management, poor connections or defective power sources so the suggested steps for troubleshooting will be :
- to reset SMC,
-to check secure AC cable and power supply connection to logic board,
-
Hardware-related system shut downs:
- one of the temperature sensors reached a specied temperature limit,
- one of the voltage sensors reached a specied voltage limit,
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Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 24
- one of the current sensors reached a specied current limit, These shut downs are due to temperature, voltage, current, fan speed or other hardware related sensor values getting out of range, so the suggested steps for troubleshooting will be:
- to check for all sensors connections and values using the latest available service utilities and Apple Service Diagnostics,
- to check for fan(s) operation,
- to check for cleanliness of the heatsink ns and the air ows,
- to check for correct seating of the heatsink on logic board and presence of adequate thermal material.
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
Intermittent shutdown
• Powers o during startup
• Powers o during desktop use
1. Collect details from customer on shutdown occurrence and system conguration when it happens (on startup, when running for a while, frequency of shutdowns, running applications, shutdown repeatability). If shutdown can be easily reproduced, check next steps:
2. Check AC cable connection with system
3. Reset SMC and PRAM
4. Start up with shift key down for safe mode check
5. Startup from known-good bootable device
6. Run latest available service utilities for sensors +
thermal tests
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Power related shutdown :
Check with known-good AC cable. Verify if the shutdown issues disappear with known-good AC cable.
Yes Faulty user’s AC cable. Replace
user’s AC cable.
No Symptoms unchanged - Go
to step 2
X03
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 25
2. Activity related shutdowns: Reset SMC and PRAM and verify that shutdown issue still happens.
Yes Check with booting from
known-good bootable drive: go to step 3
No Shutdown cause was related
to SMC or Pram programmed shutdown settings or corruption, and was resolved by reverting them to default settings.
3. Boot from a known-good bootable drive (external bootable drive or similar system set as FireWire Target mode) , verify that shutdown issue still happens.
4. Hardware-related shutdowns: Run the latest available service diagnostics and verify if a sensor failure is reported.
Yes Go to step 4
No Shutdown events do not
happen on known-good OS. Reinstall Mac OS on customer hard drive, update OS with latest version and check if any rmware update is available.
Yes -If a Temperature or a Fan
sensor failure is reported, go to step 5
-If a Voltage or a Current sensor failure is reported, replace logic board.
No Setup ASD to loop test suite
for burn in tests and go to step 5. If no failure is found after burn in tests, return unit to customer for no failure found.
M23
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Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 26
5. Verify if a thermal sensor or fan failure is reported by latest available service diagnostics.
Yes - If a fan failure is reported,
check for fan cable seating and retest. If same failure happens when retesting, replace fan with known-good one and retest. If issue does not happen anymore with the known-good fan, replace user’s fan.
- If a thermal failure is reported, check for cause of excessive temperature, (like clogged fan, disconnected sensor cable, obstructed vent, dust in heatsink n) and retest. If still failing locate aected sensor and replace it if available as a standalone part, or replace part where sensor is integrated (logic board, power supply, heatsink) according to the sensor location table . Go to step 6
X22
X03
M23
P17
X10
6. Isolate if issue solved.
Verify if shutdown/issue does not happen anymore after part exchange.
No Replace Thermal module
Go to step 6
Yes Issue xed
No Replace logic board with
corresponding symptom:
-if for thermal error cause
-if for other cause
X10
M18 M08
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 27
Kernel Panic, System Crashes
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Kernel Panic, System Crashes
• Kernel Panic on startup or desktop use.
• System freeze during use.
• System freeze upon wake from sleep.
1. Isolate OS by starting up system from original Mac mini Install DVD, from the same model of computer setup in Target Disk Mode, or from compatible known-good OS on an external drive. Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are available when booted from the Install disk.
2. Ensure that all software and rmware updates for the computer have been installed to take advantage of any available bug xes.
3. Reset SMC and PRAM to clear any stored, corrupted information.
4. Start up in Safe Mode by holding the shift key down during startup to load only required kernel extensions and disable all startup and login items. See KBase article
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564
5. Check the panic.log, located /Library/Logs/
Panicreporter, for information in the backtrace that may give clues about which hardware driver was loading when kernel panic occurred.
6. For more information on kernel panics refer to KBase article
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1392
2010-08-03
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Run the latest available service
utilities, or try to run the Apple Hardware Test (with or without the Install DVD available) by pressing the D keyboard key on startup. Does the computer boot up to any of these diagnostics?
Yes Run all available tests and
proceed with results. If diagnostics still boot with a kernel panic, go to step 2.
No Go to step 2.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 28
2. Remove all external peripheral devices including keyboard and mouse. Does computer now start without any kernel panic?
Yes Add peripheral devices one at
a time and restart each time until the kernel panic repeats. Replace device whose addition causes the issue.
No Go to step 3.
3. Use known-good SDRAM in the system. Does the computer start without kernel panic now?
4. Remove bottom cover, disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then disconnect the following cables from logic board before being able to extract it :HDD, ODD/HDD, Ambient sensor, HD sensor, ODD/HD sensor, IR/LED cable. Disconnect the AirPort / Bluetooth card ex cable and retest. Does the computer start without kernel panic now?
5. Reconnect the Optical drive (if present), but do not reconnect the Hard Drive cable on logic board and startup from the original Mac mini Install DVD inserted in internal optical drive (if present, or in the optical drive from another computer setup in Target Disk Mode), or from and external volume. Does the computer start without kernel panic now?
Yes Install user’s SDRAM and test.
If kernel panic repeats, replace SDRAM. Verify that the correct SDRAM type is being used.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Go to AirPort Card Kernel
Panic symptom ow.
No Go to step 5.
Yes Go to Hard Drive Not
Recognized symptom ow.
No Go to step 6
X01
2010-08-03
6. Disconnect the Optical Drive/ Second Hard Drive cable from logic board and test. Does the computer start without kernel panic now?
Yes Go to Optical Drive not
recognized symptom ow if
an optical drive is present, Go to Hard Drive Not
Recognized symptom ow. If
a second hard drive is present
No Replace logic board. M06
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 29
No Video
Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive, speakers
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
No Video
• No image.
1. Inquire which video port and cable is used by customer.
2. Check connectors and cables for pin damage.
3. Check both computer DisplayPort and HDMI
connections with known-good displays.
4. (DisplayPort) If DisplayPort to DVI adapter cable is used in customer’s conguration, check it on a known-good computer
5. (HDMI) If issue only happens on customer’s HDMI display, make sure that he selected the correct AV input, that he connected directly the computer to display and that he is using known-good HDMI cable.
6. Reset SMC.
7. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive: No Video
Check Result Action Code
2010-08-03
1. Verify boot chime present and fans running when system powered ON. (Reset SMC and clear PRAM if necessary for proper boot up.)
2. (DisplayPort) Connect supported external display via mini DisplayPort. Verify whether image appears correctly on external display when system is booted.
Yes Power ON self test OK. Boot
sequence started. Go to step 2.
No Go to Won’t Start Up
symptom ow.
Yes Video present. Verify system
functionality and return to user or jump to appropriate display troubleshooting ow.
No Go to step 3.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 30
3. (HDMI) Connect supported known-good external display on HDMI port. Select HDMI input on display and verify whether image appears correctly on external display when system is booted.
Yes Video circuitry on logic
board functional. Return to customer or jump to appropriate display issue troubleshooting ow.
No Go to step 4
4. Replace with known-good SDRAM and verify that the computer displays video.
Yes Install user’s SDRAM and test.
If no video issue reoccurs, replace SDRAM. Verify that the correct SDRAM type is being used.
No Replace logic board. Retest. M03
Corrupted Video
Unlikely cause: Adapter, hard drive, optical drive, fan, or speaker.
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Corrupted Video
• Text and graphics appear fuzzy
• Image corrupted
1. Set System Preferences/Display to a native resolution. Non-native resolutions are unable to produce optimal clarity.
2. Make sure all relevant software updates have been applied. Graphics driver updates may be included with software updates.
X01
2010-08-03
3. When the issue occurs take a screenshot of the display (Command-Shift-3). View the screen shot le on another known-good computer. If the image corruption can be seen in the screenshot then the issue is with the video drivers, software, or video/logic board. If the issue cannot be seen in the screenshot then the display and cable should be tested further.
4. Boot from install DVD or another known-good volume to determine whether a potential software/driver issue exists.
5. Verify if issue can be reproduced on both DisplayPort and HDMI ports.
6. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 31
Check Result Action Code
1. Boot from Original Mac mini
Install DVD inserted in internal optical drive (or in optical drive of another computer setup in Target Disk Mode), and verify whether issue is still visible.
2. Use known-good SDRAM in the system. Does the corrupted video issue still appears?
3. Connect a known-good external DisplayPort display, then an HDMI display (or a DVI display via an HDMI to DVI adapter) to each video ports and verify if issue only happens to one of the ports.
4. Inspect display connectors and display cables and reseat them. Does the issue persist?
Yes Go to step 2.
No Issue likely caused by installed
software or driver issue. Troubleshoot for software issues. Make sure all software updates have been installed.
Yes Go to step 3.
No Reinstall user’s SDRAM and
test. If corrupted video issue repeats, replace SDRAM. Verify that the correct SDRAM type is being used.
Yes Issue is isolated to one of the
display ports. Go to step 4.
No Replace Logic board and go
to step 5
Yes Replace Logic board and go
to step 5.
No Issue likely caused by poor
connection/cable. Replace cable if Apple, and return computer to user.
X01
M04
M04
X03
2010-08-03
5. After logic board exchange, customer returns system with same video issue.
Yes User’s display or display cable
may be incompatible(s) with the Mac mini. Recommend user to direct connect the display to computer, and contact the display/cable/ switcher manufacturer for support and service.
No Issue resolved with
replacement logic board.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 32
Burnt Smell/Odor
Unlikely cause: speakers, microphone, housing
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Burnt Smell/Odor
• Burning smell
• Unusual odor
1. Verify source of smell/odor is emanating from the system.
2. Refer to KBase articles:
http://support.apple.com/kb/TA22044 or http://support.apple.com/kb/TA22045.
3. Disconnect all third party devices and conrm
whether the odor is being generated by the device.
4. Inspect air intake and air outlets for obstructions. To prevent overheating make sure there is sucient clearance to allow air to ow unobstructed into and out of the system.
5. Verify whether system is functional.
6. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Disconnect all 3rd party devices
and cables. Power On system and verify whether smoke or strong odor returns.
Yes Power down system
immediately. Go to step 2.
No System functions correctly.
Verify system functionality with 3rd party devices and cables and return system to user if problem has been resolved. Consult 3rd party companies as needed for issues with those products.
2010-08-03
2. Verify whether the source of the odor can be identied by visually inspecting each module and associated cables for signs of burned or damaged components, smoke residue, burned traces, melted or damaged wiring.
Yes Replace aected module(s). P08
No Unable to visually locate the
source of odor. Go to step 3.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 33
3. Can the source of the odor be located using nose?
Yes Replace aected module(s)
No Contact Apple for assistance
Noise, Hum, Vibration
Unlikely cause: enclosure, cables.
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
P08
and retest system.
if you feel that there is a possible safety issue with the computer that has not been resolved in the previous steps.
Noise/Hum/Vibration
• Buzzing noise
• Rattling noise
• Ticking noise
• Squeaking
1. Verify that the vents on the bottom and back of the system are free of dust and other obstructions that might inhibit proper airow through the system.
2. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor. Determine whether an application or process is consuming a high percentage of CPU bandwidth. CPU intensive applications can cause the fans to run fast in order to maintain the proper internal system temperatures. If needed, quit the application or restart the system to resolve the issue.
3. Eject optical media from optical drive. Out of balance optical media can generate audible noise. To resolve try a dierent brand of media. For additional information jump to ‘ Optical Drive Noisy’ symptom ow. Disconnect all third party devices and conrm whether the odor is being generated by the device.
4. Play sound sample at loud and soft volume levels to determine if the noise is caused by the speaker or the amplier circuit. Jump to ‘Distorted sound from built-in speaker symptom ow for additional information.
2010-08-03
5. Go to Deep Dive.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 34
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Run latest available service
diagnostics. Was an error reported?
2. Does the noise sound like fan running faster than expected?
3. Does the noise change when the optical drive is being accessed or media is inserted or ejected?
4. Mute the system volume. Connect a pair of headphones to audio out port. Verify whether the issue still occurs.
Yes Suspect possible fan or
sensor error. Check fan cable connection to the logic board.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Reset SMC by disconnecting
power cord for ~15 seconds then retest. If issue persists go to step 3.
No Go to step 5.
Yes Suspect issue with optical
drive or media being used. Jump to ‘Optical Drive Noisy’ symptom ow.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Go to step 5.
No Suspect issue with speaker
or audio circuitry. Jump to ‘Distorted Sound From Internal Speaker’ symptom ow.
5. Remove fan and rotate the blades. Verify that fan blades spin smoothly without interference with fan housing.
6. Reinstall fan, carefully ensuring that its cable is routed properly and there’s no interference with the fan blades. After reassembling system verify that the noise issue is resolved.
Yes Go to step 6.
No Replace fan. X23
Yes Proper reassembly resolved
noise issue. Suspect issue was caused by interference from wiring, or possible fan housing distortion when installed in system.
No Go to step 7.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 35
7. Remove bottom cover, disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove Fan and cowling, then disconnect one at a time each following cable and retest :HDD, ODD/HDD, then power ON the system each time . Determine if noise issue goes away when one of these modules is disconnected. Note: Do not keep system On for long, when fan is disconnected.
Yes Identify, inspect, and if
No All parts veried. Verify that
Uncategorized Symptoms
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
necessary, replace the part that caused the noise until it was disconnected from the system.
the correct symptom ow is being used.
Uncategorized Symptoms
• Unable to locate appropriate symptom code.
1. Make sure system is plugged into a known-good outlet.
2. Listen for boot chime, fan, optical drive, or hard drive noise which indicates system is powering up. If noise is heard, go to Won’t Start Up
symptom ow. If no noise is heard go to No Power symptom ow.
3. Attempt to boot from Install DVD inserted
in internal optical drive (or in optical drive of another computer setup in Target Disk Mode) to isolate possible software issues.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether existing
symptom code applies to the issue reported by the user.
Yes Jump to appropriate
symptom code ow.
No Document reported failure
and send feedback to
smfeedback@apple.com
stating that a suitable symptom code wasn’t found. Provide as much detail as possible.
N99
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 36

Communications

AirPort/Bluetooth Issues
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
AirPort/Bluetooth Issues
• AirPort or Bluetooth cannot be enabled.
• AirPort/Bluetooth card not available in System Proler
• Unable to join networks or pair devices
• Intermittent device or connection dropouts
• Limited wireless range
1. Verify that AirPort or Bluetooth is turned ON ,
2. (AirPort) Make sure that a network is available
and selected.
3. (AirPort) Run the Apple System Proler and verify that installed AirPort card supports the channel number used by the wireless access point.
4. (AirPort) Check if the wireless access point requires special connection and encryption protocols.
5. (AirPort) Check the number of users trying to use AirPort in the area for possible network congestion (available bandwidth).
6. (Bluetooth) If customer complaints about a Bluetooth issue with his input device, rst use a known-good Bluetooth input device to perform tests with computer. Then test customer’s Bluetooth device on known-good computer to dene which side is creating the communication issue.
7. (Bluetooth) Make sure that customer is not using too many Bluetooth devices, and that disabling one of them does not solve the issue.
2010-08-03
8. Isolate potential OS related issues by starting up from another bootable drive like the original Mac mini Install DVD inserted in internal optical drive (or in optical drive of another computer setup in Target Disk Mode), an up -to-date Mac OS X
10.6.X external bootable drive, or from a same model of Mac mini setup as FireWire Target Disk Mode.
9. Check for nearby sources of interference such as microwave ovens or cordless phones. See article <http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1365>
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 37
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Open System Proler. AirPort
is listed under Network, while Bluetooth is listed under USB. Are AirPort and Bluetooth ports recognized?
Yes Install all available software
updates for AirPort/Bluetooth and go to step 4.
No Remove the AirPort/Bluetooth
card and examine card and logic board connectors for damage:
-If no damage is found, reseat cable on logic board and on AirPort/Bluetooth card ends and retest. If both AirPort and USB Bluetooth devices are still unrecognized in System Proler, replace the AirPort/ Bluetooth ex cable and retest. Go to step 2 .-If any AirPort/Bluetooth card connector is damaged replace card and retest.
-If the corresponding connector on logic board is damaged replace logic board and retest.
X03
N17
M24
2. After AirPort/Bluetooth ex
cable has been replaced, are the AirPort and USB Bluetooth devices visible in System Proler?
3. After AirPort/Bluetooth card has been replaced, are the AirPort and Bluetooth devices visible in System Proler?
4. Ensure that the Bluetooth antenna and the AirPort antennas cables are connected properly and not damaged. Do connection issues persist?
Yes Issue resolved
No Replace AirPort/Bluetooth
card
Yes Issue resolved
No Replace Logic Board M24
Yes - For AirPort related issue, go
to step 5,
- For Bluetooth related issue, go to step 6.
No Issue resolved.
N18
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 38
5. (AirPort) Create a Computer to Computer network with another known-good Mac computer using AirPort. See article http://docs.
info.apple.com/article. html?path=AirPort/5.0/en/ ap2110.html. Can you connect
to this computer successfully?
Yes Network or channel issue.
Go to step 7
No Double check any password
required. Try connecting another known-good computer to the created network. If known-good test computer connects, replace the round AirPort antenna assembly and go to step 7
X03
6. (Bluetooth) Make sure that your
known-good Bluetooth device is in discoverable mode, and that your computer is also in discoverable mode. Can you successfully and reliably pair the device now?
7. (AirPort) Try connecting to a known good network that does not require password or has MAC address ltering enabled. Can you connect to a network reliably now?
8. With the antenna(s) or card replaced, are the connection issues resolved?
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace the AirPort/Bluetooth
card and retest. Go to step 8
Yes Troubleshoot local network.
Possible password or MAC address ltering issue.
No Replace the AirPort/Bluetooth
card and retest. Go to step 8
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace the logic board
(Bluetooth antenna and second Airport antenna are both part of Logic Board I/O wall).
N15
N14
M11
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 39
AirPort/Bluetooth Card Kernel Panic
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
AirPort/Bluetooth Card Kernel Panic
• Kernel Panic on startup
• 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 starting up from original Install media for the computer, from same model computer setup in Target Disk Mode, or from compatible known good up-to date Mac OS X
10.6/X loaded on an external drive. Note: AirPort and Bluetooth services are available when booted from the Install disk.
2. Ensure that all software and rmware updates for the computer and AirPort been installed.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Remove bottom cover,
disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then disconnect the following cables from logic board before being able to extract it: HDD, ODD/HDD, Ambient sensor, HD sensor, ODD/HD sensor, IR/ LED cable, Power supply cable. Disconnect AirPort/Bluetooth ex cable from logic board. Reconnect power supply and hard drive cable and retest. Does computer start without kernel panic?
Yes Possible logic board issue.
Go to Kernel Panic/System
crashes symptom.
No Reseat AirPort/Bluetooth ex
cable to the logic board and to the AirPort/Bluetooth card and retest. If problem persists, replace AirPort/Bluetooth ex cable. Go to step 2
2010-08-03
2. With replacement AirPort/ Bluetooth ex cable installed, does computer start without kernel panic?
3. With replacement AirPort/ Bluetooth card installed, does computer start without kernel panic?
Yes AirPort/Bluetooth ex cable
issue. Issue resolved.
No Replace AirPort/Bluetooth
card. Go to step 3.
Yes AirPort/Bluetooth card issue.
Issue resolved.
No Possible logic board issue.
Go to Kernel Panic/System
crashes symptom.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 40
N13
Ethernet Port/Device Issue
Unlikely cause: Adapter, hard drive, optical drive, fan
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Ethernet Port/Device Issue
• No Ethernet device present
• Unable to access network resources
• Ethernet device shows no connection
• Ethernet device unable to an IP address
• Slow network performance
1. Check the Ethernet cable for damage, try a known good Ethernet cable – CAT5 or better recommended for 100Mbps+ connections.
2. Check Ethernet ports on the 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. Isolate OS by starting up from original Install media for the computer, the same make and model computer in Target Disk Mode, or compatible known good OS on an external drive.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Visually inspect the Ethernet
port on computer and verify that all pins will make physical contact with the CAT5 Ethernet cable.
Yes Go to step 2
No Pins are damaged, bent at or
missing. Replace logic board
M24
2010-08-03
2. Boot from original Install media. Verify Network Link status active by using Network Utility under the “Info” tab. Is the Link Status “Active”?
Yes Go to step 3
No If same Ethernet cable gives
an “Active” link status on a known good computer of same make and model, replace logic board
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 41
M10
3. Connect the computer to
another Macintosh computer using CAT5 Ethernet cable. See article <http://docs.
info.apple.com/article. html?path=Mac/10.6/en/8429. html>.
Can you connect successfully?
Yes Ethernet communication
good. Go to step 4
No If same Ethernet cable and
computer connects to a known good computer of same make and model, replace logic board
M10
4. Check for speed and duplex
issues on the network. Open System Preference > Network; click the Advanced button, then the Ethernet tab. Is the speed and duplex reported what is expected?
5. Check for MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) issues. See article <http://support.
apple.com/kb/HT2532>. Does
changing the MTU settings on the computer resolve the issue?
6. If changing the speed, duplex or MTU settings allows connectivity, check with another computer of same make and model. Does the known good computer produce the same results?
Yes Go to step 5
No Change the speed and duplex
settings. See article <http://
docs.info.apple.com/article. html?path=Mac/10.6/ en/8711.html>. Go to step 6
Yes Go to step 6
No Ethernet controller damaged.
Replace logic board.
Yes Check with ISP or Network
Administrator concerning speed, duplex and MTU settings.
No Verify with known good up
to date Mac OS X 10.6.X. If the issue persists, replace the logic board.
M10
M10
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 42
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair
• Can’t get system to recognize a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse
1. Remove and reinstall the batteries for the device.
2. Check that device is powering on.
3. Use known-good batteries with the device.
4. Ensure that device is being used within range. 30
ft. for Bluetooth devices.
5. Ensure that the latest Software Updates have been applied.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Without any wired input
devices connected, start the computer. Does the computer show the Bluetooth Setup assistant?
Yes Bluetooth hardware is active.
Go to step 3.
No Inspect and reseat AirPort/
Bluetooth card ex cable connections to logic board and to AirPort/Bluetooth card. Go to step 2
X03
2010-08-03
2. Restart the machine without any wired input devices attached. Does the computer show the Bluetooth Setup assistant?
3. With a known-good wireless mouse on, and in discoverable mode, can you successfully pair the mouse with the assistant?
Yes Bluetooth hardware is active.
Go to step 3.
No Replace the AirPort/Bluetooth
ex cable.
Yes Check for stability.
Go to step 4
No Go to Wireless Device Loses
Connection symptom.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 43
M11
4. With the known-good wireless
mouse paired, does the mouse stay connected?
Yes Issue resolved
No Inspect and reseat the
Bluetooth antenna cable on the AirPort/Bluetooth card. Replace any damaged AirPort/Bluetooth card if its antenna connector is damaged, or logic board if the Bluetooth antenna is damaged (Bluetooth antenna is part of logic board I/O wall) Go to step 5
N17
M11
5. With the wireless mouse
paired, does the mouse stay connected?
Yes Antenna issue. Issue resolved.
No Go to Wireless Device Loses
Connection symptom
Wireless Input Device Loses Connection
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Wireless Input Device Loses Connection
• Wireless keyboard, mouse, or other wireless input device loses connection.
1. Remove and reinstall the batteries for the device.
2. Check that device is powering on.
3. Use known-good batteries with the device.
4. Ensure other devices pair and keep connection
without issue. If not, see AirPort/Bluetooth: Defective Wireless Device symptom.
5. Ensure that device is being used within range, 30 feet for Bluetooth devices.
2010-08-03
6. Ensure that customer is not using too many Bluetooth devices, and that disabling one of them does not solve the issue (some Bluetooth devices, when used together, may limit the needed bandwidth for an additional one).
7. Ensure that the latest Software Updates have been applied.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 44
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Open System Preferences >
Bluetooth. Paired items and their connection status are shown. Is the device listed?
2. Make sure device is on. In System Preferences > Bluetooth, select the device and from the Action menu choose “Connect”. Does the device connect successfully?
3. With the device on, run the Bluetooth Setup Assistant. Can you successfully pair the device?
4. With the device on, run the Bluetooth Setup Assistant. Can you successfully pair the device?
5. Log into new Admin User account. With the device on, run the Bluetooth Setup Assistant. Can you successfully pair the device with the New User?
Yes Device has been paired. Go to
step 2
No The device is not paired. Make
device discoverable and open Bluetooth Setup Assistant. Go to step 3
Yes Go to step 7
No Delete pairing in System
Preferences. Go to step 3
Yes Go to step 7
No Restart the machine. Go to
step 4
Yes Go to step 7
No Create a new Admin User. Go
to step 5
Yes User-based issue.
Troubleshoot software on User account. No repair needed.
No Remove the following le: /
Library/Preferences/com. apple.Bluetooth.plist Go to step 6
2010-08-03
6. Restart the computer, With the device on, run the Bluetooth Setup Assistant. Can you successfully pair the device?
7. With the device paired and connected, is the device connection stable if used normally?
Yes Go to step 7
No Go to AirPort/Bluetooth:
Defective Wireless Device symptom
Yes Issue resolved
No Check device documentation
on standard length of operation, and other operational factors. Go to step 8
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 45
8. Is the device performing to stated specications?
Yes Educate User. Issue resolved.
No Replace device.
Uncategorized Symptoms
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptoms
• Unable to locate appropriate symptom code.
1. Verify System Preferences/Network settings are congured appropriately to support communication method.
2. For Ethernet connection issues verify that the cable being used functions when used with another known good system.
3. For wireless connection issues review user environment to determine whether possible interference from other 2.4GHz communications devices might be contributing to issue.
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1365
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether existing
symptom code applies to the issue reported by the user.
Yes Jump to appropriate
symptom code ow.
No Document reported failure
and send feedback to
smfeedback@apple.com
stating that a suitable symptom code wasn’t found. Provide as much detail as possible.
N99
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Communications 46

Display

No Video

Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive, speakers
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
No Video
• No image.
1. Check display DisplayPort or HDMI connections
2. Connect known-good display and cables,
3. For HDMI display, power on the display rst and
set AV input to HDMI, then power on the Mac mini.
4. Check that customer display is directly connected to computer with known-good cables.
5. Check connections for pin damage.
6. Reset PRAM.
7. Reset SMC.
8. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive: No Video
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify boot chime present and
fans running when system powered ON. (Reset SMC and clear PRAM if necessary for proper boot up.)
Yes Power ON self test OK. Boot
sequence started. Go to step 2.
No Go to Won’t Start Up
symptom ow.
2010-08-03
2. (DisplayPort) Connect known­good external display via Mini DisplayPort. Verify if image appears correctly on external display when system is booted.
3. (HDMI) Connect known-good external display via HDMI port. Select correct HDMI input on display and verify if image appears correctly on external display when system is booted.
Yes Video present. Verify system
functionality and return to user or jump to appropriate display troubleshooting ow.
No Go to step 3.
Yes Video circuitry on logic
board functional. Return to customer or jump to appropriate display issue troubleshooting ow.
No Go to step 4
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Display 47
4. Install known-good SDRAM in the system. Does the computer start with video?
Yes Install user’s SDRAM and
test. If no video issue persist, replace user’s SDRAM. Verify that the correct SDRAM type is being used.
No Go to step 5
X01
5. Take apart system to access,
remove battery, check battery voltage , reinstall good backup battery and retest. Does the computer start with video?
Yes Issue solved. Corrupted power
management or depleted backup battery caused the issue. Return system to customer.
No Replace logic board. Retest. M03
Corrupted Video
Unlikely cause: Adapter, hard drive, optical drive, fan, or speaker.
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Corrupted Video
• Text and graphics appear fuzzy
• Image corrupted
1. Connect known-good display and cables, Power on the display rst, then power on the Mac mini. Set System Preferences/Display to native resolution. Non-native resolutions are unable to produce optimal clarity.
2. Make sure all relevant software updates have been applied. Graphics driver updates may be included with software updates.
2010-08-03
3. When the issue occurs take a screenshot of the display (Command-Shift-3). View the screen shot le on another known-good computer. If the image corruption can be seen in the screenshot then the issue is with the video drivers, software, or video/logic board. If the issue cannot be seen in the screenshot then the display and cable should be tested further.
4. Verify if video issue can be reproduced on both DisplayPort and HDMI ports.
5. Verify if issue can be reproduced with every resolution and frequency setting Display in System Preferences.
6. Boot from install DVD or another known-good volume to determine whether a potential software/driver related issue exists.
7. Go to Deep Dive.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — No Video 48
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Boot from Original Mac mini
Install DVD and verify whether issue is still visible.
2. Use known-good SDRAM in the system. Does the corrupted video issue still appears?
3. Connect a known-good external DisplayPort display, then an HDMI display (or a DVI display via an HDMI to DVI adapter) to each video ports and verify if issue only happens to one of the ports.
4. Inspect display connector and display cables and reseat them. Does the issue persist?
Yes Go to step 2.
No Issue likely caused by installed
software or driver issue. Troubleshoot for software issues. Make sure all software updates have been installed.
Yes Go to step 3.
No Reinstall user’s SDRAM and
test. If corrupted video issue repeats, replace SDRAM. Verify that the correct SDRAM type is being used.
Yes Issue is isolated to one of the
display ports. Go to step 4.
No Replace Logic board and go
to step 5
Yes Replace Logic board and go
to step 5.
No Issue likely caused by poor
connection/cable. Replace cable if Apple, and return computer to user.
X01
M04
M04
X03
2010-08-03
5. After logic board exchange, customer returns system with same video issue.
Yes User’s display or display cable
may be incompatible(s) with the Mac mini. Recommend user to contact the display/ cable/switcher manufacturer for support and service.
No Issue resolved with
replacement logic board.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — No Video 49
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.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — No Video 50

Mass Storage

Hard Drive(s) Not Recognized
Unlikely cause: power supply, wireless card, fan, speaker
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Drive Is Not Recognized Drive Does Not Boot
• Flashing Question Mark
• Boots to Grey Screen
• Boots to Blue Screen
1. Use a known good mouse. A stuck mouse button will not allow boot.
2. Boot from original Mac mini Install DVD inserted in internal optical drive (or in the optical drive of another computer setup in Target Disk Mode), or from and external up to date Mac OS X10.6.X drive. 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. Note: Make sure
data has been backed up before erasing hard drive.
5. Use Target Disk Mode to attempt to mount user’s hard drive on a known-good similar computer. If mounted, use Disk Utility on host computer for Quick Checks 2, 3 and 4.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
2010-08-03
1. Boot from Install DVD inserted in internal optical drive (or in the optical drive of another computer setup in Target Disk Mode), or from an external drive and run Disk Utility. Verify that user hard drive is available for Disk Utility to repair.
2. Run Disk Utility ‘Repair Disk’ function and verify that it completes successfully.
Yes Go to step 2
No Go to step 5
Yes Go to step 3
No Go to step 4
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 51
3. Reboot computer. Verify that system boots successfully and rerun Disk utility ‘Verify’ function to verify that it reports no errors.
Yes Data error Issue resolved.
Return computer to user.
No Go to step 4.
H07
4. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS
using original Mac mini Install DVD. Verify that installation process completes. Note: Make sure data has been backed up before erasing hard drive.
5. Inspect both ends of the hard drive cable and connectors for bent pins, or other damage to the cable. Does cable seem in good shape?
6. After cable was reseated, verify that system boots successfully to hard drive, and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors.
7. After hard drive cable was replaced, verify that system boots successfully to hard drive, and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors.
Yes Go to step 9
No Go to step 5
Yes Reseat hard drive cable and
go to step 6.
No Replace hard drive cable and
retest.
Yes Issue resolved by cable reseat.
No Replace hard drive cable and
go to step 7.
Yes Issue resolved by cable
replacement.
No Remove user’s hard drive and
install a known good up to date Mac OS X 10.6 bootable hard drive, or blank hard drive that you’ll rst restore by booting from the original Mac mini Install DVD. Go to step 8
X03
X03
2010-08-03
8. After hard drive was restored or replaced with known-good one, verify that system boots successfully to hard drive, and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors.
Yes Replace defective user’s drive. H05
No Cable was replaced and
installed known-good Hard Drive did not x the issue:
M19
replace logic board.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 52
Hard Drive Read/Write Error
Unlikely cause: power supply, wireless card, fan, speaker
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Drive Read/Write Error Drive Bad Sector/Defective Drive Formatting Issues
• Cannot save documents
• Read/write error message
• Hang when accessing or saving data
1. Boot from Install DVD inserted in internal optical drive (or in the optical drive of another computer setup in Target Disk Mode), or from an external bootable drive. 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 original Mac
mini Install DVD.
4. Use Target Disk Mode to mount user’s hard drive on a known good similar computer. Use Disk Utility on host computer for Quick Checks 1 through 4.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Boot from Mac mini Install
DVD, run Disk Utility ‘Repair Disk’ function and verify that it completes successfully.
Yes Go to step 2
No Go to step 3
2010-08-03
2. Reboot computer. Verify that system boots successfully from internal hard drive and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors.
3. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS using original Mac mini Install DVD. Verify that installation process completes. Note: Make sure data has been backed up before erasing hard drive.
4. Inspect both ends of the hard drive cable and connectors for bent pins, or other damage to the cable. Does cable seem in good shape?
Yes Data error Issue resolved.
Return computer to user.
No Go to step 3
Yes Go to step 7
No Go to step 4
Yes Reseat hard drive cable and
go to step 5.
No Replace hard drive cable and
retest.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 53
H07
X03
5. After cable was reseated, verify
that system boots successfully to hard drive, and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors.
Yes Issue resolved by cable reseat.
No Replace hard drive cable and
go to step 6.
X03
6. After hard drive cable was
replaced, verify that system boots successfully to hard drive, and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors.
7. After hard drive was restored or replaced with known-good one, verify that system boots successfully to hard drive, and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors.
Yes Issue resolved by cable
replacement.
No Remove user’s hard drive and
install a known good up to date Mac OS X 10.6 bootable hard drive, or blank hard drive that you’ll rst restore by booting from the original Mac mini Install DVD. Go to step 7
Yes Replace defective user’s drive. H05
No Cable was replaced and
installed known-good Hard Drive did not x the issue: replace logic board.
Hard Drive Noisy
Unlikely cause: LCD panel, logic board, power supply, speakers, camera, microphone
M19
2010-08-03
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Hard Drive Noisy
• Noise during start up
• Noise during operation
• Noise when drive is copying or saving data
1. Start up from original Mac Mini Install DVD. Verify S.M.A.R.T. status of drive using Disk Utility.
2. Repair disk using Disk Utility.
3. Determine if noise is comparable to another
machine of the same model.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 54
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Disconnect hard drive and
optical drive (or second hard drive) cables from logic board, and startup computer to determine if noise is caused by the computer fan.
2. If an optical drive is present, reconnect optical drive cable to logic board, insert the Mac mini Install DVD in optical drive and startup computer to verify if noise is caused by optical drive.
3. Reconnect hard drive cable on logic board and boot from original Mac mini Install DVD inserted in internal optical drive (or in the optical drive of another computer setup in Target Disk Mode) or from an external drive with Mac OS
10.6.3 and run Disk Utility. Verify that user hard drive is available for Disk Utility to repair.
Yes Go to Fan Failures/Thermal
issues symptom ow.
No Go to step 2
Yes Go to Optical Drive Noisy
symptom ow.
No Go to step 3
Yes Go to step 4
No Go to Drive not recognized/
mount symptom ow.
4. Run Disk Utility ‘Repair Disk’ function and verify that it completes successfully.
5. Re-start the computer. Verify whether the noise is still present.
6. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS using original Mac mini Install DVD. Verify whether the noise is still present. Note: Make sure data has been backed up before erasing hard drive.
Yes Go to step 5
No Go to step 6
Yes Go to step 6
No Data error issue resolved by
Disk Utility. Return system to user.
Yes Replace hard drive. Go to
step 7.
No Data error issue resolved by
Disk Utility. Return system to user.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 55
7. With replacement hard drive installed verify whether noise level is noticeably quieter than customer’s hard drive.
Yes Customer‘s drive appears
noisy: Replace customer’s hard drive and return system to customer.
No Customer hard drive noise
level is similar to a known­good one and does not require repair. Reinstall user’s hard drive and return system to customer.
Uncategorized Symptom- Hard Drive
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
H06
Uncategorized Symptom
• Unable to locate appropriate symptom
1. Run latest available service utilities to check for presence of both SATA devices communicating with the logic board.
1. Try starting the system with the “D” key held down on keyboard to check if Apple Hardware Test is present on hard drive and does boot.
2. Try starting the system with the “D” key held down on keyboard while the Mac mini Install DVD is inserted in the internal optical drive (or in the optical drive of another computer setup in Target Disk Mode), to run the Apple Hardware Test from Install DVD.
3. Remove SDRAM and install Known Good SDRAM and start system. This will verify the SDRAM is not the cause of a startup issue.
4. Set up Mac mini to test in FireWire Target Disk Mode, and connect it to another known-good computer with Mac OS 10.6.3 to run Disk Utility and repair directory structure.
5. Setup another similar computer in FireWire Target Disk Mode, and boot Mac mini from its drive (or from an external FireWire drive with compatible Mac OS 10.6.3) to run Disk Utility and verify the Mac mini hard drive SMART status and repair directory structure.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 56
Deep Dive-Hard Drive Uncategorized Symptoms
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether an existing
symptom chart applies to the issue reported by the customer.
Yes Jump to appropriate
No Document failure symptom
Optical Drive Not Recognized
(For systems with optical drives)
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Drive Not Recognized/Mount
• Discs inject and eject, but do not appear in Finder
1. Use Apple System Proler Serial-ATA section to see if the optical drive appears.
2. Apple System Proler Serial-ATA section will show any media inserted.
symptom chart ow.
and send feedback to
smfeedback@apple stating
that a suitable symptom code could not be found.
2010-08-03
3. Check Finder Preferences and make sure “CD’s, DVD’s and iPods” is checked under “Show these items on the desktop” in the General section.
4. Check that issue happens with both CD and DVD types of media. If only one type of media is recognized, the optical drive may suer from a laser issue.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Is the optical drive listed in the
Serial-ATA section of the Apple System Proler?
Yes Optical drive communicating
with logic board Go to step 2
No Logic board not
communicating with optical drive. Go to step 3
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 57
2. Test both CD and DVD media. Verify that optical drive can read both types of CD media and DVD media.
Yes Go to step 6
No Drive has a laser issue.
Replace the optical drive and retest
J03
3. Remove bottom cover,
disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then reseat the optical drive ex cable on logic board and optical drive ends. Reinsert logic board and verify that optical drive is listed in the Serial-ATA section of the Apple System Proler?
4. Disconnect cables from logic board, remove hard drive, power supply, and optical drive and replace optical drive cable with known-good one. Verify that optical drive is listed in the Serial-ATA section of the Apple System Proler?
5. With replacement optical drive installed, verify that optical drive is listed in the Serial-ATA section of the Apple System Proler?
Yes Go to step 6
No Go to step 4
Yes Replace defective user’s
optical drive cable and retest.
No Replace optical drive. Go to
step 5.
Yes Optical drive issue. Replace
user’s optical drive . Go to step 6.
No Replace logic board. Go to
step 6.
X03
J09
M19
2010-08-03
6. Test read compatible known good CD and DVD media (Install DVD). Verify media is recognized and reads reliably.
Yes Issue does not happen or was
resolved since.
No Check optical drive atness
and correct installation in the computer case. Jump to Optical Drive Won’t Accept/ Eject Media symptom ow.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 58
Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Eject Media
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Drive Won’t Accept Media Drive Won’t Eject Media
• Cannot insert a disc into the drive
• Cannot eject a disc placed into the drive
1. Use Apple System Proler Serial-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. Verify that optical drive is listed
in the System Proler device tree for Serial-ATA devices.
2. Remove bottom cover, disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then check the optical drive ex cable on logic board. Visually inspect connectors for any debris, damage or bent pins. If no damage, reseat optical drive ex cable on logic board, reinsert logic board and verify that optical drive is listed in the Serial-ATA section of the Apple System Proler?
Yes Optical drive communicating
with logic board. Go to step 5.
No Logic board not
communicating with optical drive. Go to step 2
Yes Go to step 5.
No Replace optical drive cable
and retest. If still not visible in System Proler go to step 3
X03
2010-08-03
3. Connect a known-good optical drive and ex cable to logic board. Verify that known-good optical drive is listed in the System Proler device tree.
Yes Go to step 4.
No Suspect logic board. Go to
step 7
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 59
4. With known good optical drive installed, test for media inject/ eject. Verify drive accepts and ejects known-good media.
Yes Known-good optical drive
resolved issue
Replace user’s optical drive:
-for an inject issue,
-for an eject issue.
No Optical drive cable veried or
replaced, optical drive veried or replaced. Replace logic board and retest.
J01 J02
M19
5. Inspect optical drive slot during
disc insert/ eject. Verify that discs can be inserted easily.
6. With known good optical media (Install disc), test for media inject/eject. Does drive accept and eject known good media?
Yes Go to step 6
No Replace damaged optical
Yes User media issue. No repair
No Go to step 3
Optical Drive Read/Write Error
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Drive Read/Write Data Error (J03)
• 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 the same type of computer 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 optical drive of the same type.
J05
drive.
necessary. Suggest user to investigate use of dierent media.
2010-08-03
4. Check both CD and DVD media types. If only one type of media is producing errors, there maybe a laser issue.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 60
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify if media is free to spin
without optical drive scraping edge or surface of media?
2. Test both CD and DVD media. Can drive read both CD media and DVD media?
3. Remove bottom cover, disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then check the optical drive ex cable on logic board. Visually inspect connectors for any debris, damage or bent pins. If no damage, reseat optical drive ex cable on logic board, reinsert logic board and verify that both types of media read reliably now.
Yes Go to step 2
No Check drive correct geometry
while installed. Replace optical drive
Yes Go to step 6
No Drive has a laser issue if only
one media is read. Replace the optical drive. If both types media fail, go to step 3
Yes Go to step 6
No Go to step 4
J05
J03
2010-08-03
4. Connect known good optical drive and cable to logic board. Do both types of media reliably read now?
5. Connect known-good optical drive with original cable. Do both types of media reliably read now?
Yes Logic board not in cause. Go
to step 5
No Issue also happens with
known-good optical drive and cable: Suspect Logic board. Replace logic board.
Yes Cable not in cause, replace
user’s defective optical drive.
No Replace optical drive cable an
reinstall user’s optical drive.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 61
M19
J03
X03
6. Test write data to compatible
CD and DVD media. Verify burned media is recognized and reads reliably.
Yes Issue resolved.
No Issue may be media -related.
Check other sources of media on computer, and check suspected media on other similar Mac mini model.
Optical Drive Not Performing to Specications
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Optical Drive Not Performing to Specications
• 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. For Write issues, check with known-good media that performs well in another computer and drive of the same type.
3. Check both CD and DVD media types. If only one type of media is producing errors, you may have a laser issue.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Test both CD and DVD media.
Can drive read both CD media and DVD media?
Yes Go to step 6
No Drive has a laser issue if only
one media is read. Replace the optical drive. If both types of media fail, go to step 3
J03
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 62
2. Remove bottom cover, disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then check the optical drive ex cable on logic board. Visually inspect connectors for any debris, damage or bent pins. If no damage, reseat optical drive ex cable on logic board, reinsert logic board and verify that both types of media are read reliably now.
Yes Go to step 5
No Go to step 3
3. Connect known good optical drive and cable to logic board. Do both types of media reliably read /write now?
4. Test write data to compatible CD and DVD media. Verify burned media is recognized and reads reliably.
5. The balance of some media may not perform at the higher speeds supported by the drive. Does slowing the requested burn speed allow the discs to write reliably?
Optical Drive Noisy
Quick Check
Yes Go to step 4
No Go to step 5
Yes Issue resolved.
No Go to step 5
Yes Media issue. No repair
necessary.
No Replace user’s optical drive. J07
2010-08-03
Symptoms Quick Check
Optical Drive Noisy (J04)
• 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 machine to rule out media issue.
2. Check with Known Good Discs like the Install disks that came with the computer.
3. Check to see if noise occurs without media in the drive. If so, check hard drive and fan caused noise.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 63
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Optical drive should perform
a single reset sequence. Is optical drive constantly seeking or cycling eject mechanism without an optical disc installed??
2. Verify media does not exceed maximum thickness specication <http://support.
apple.com/kb/HT2446>
Using known good CD and DVD media, does media spin without optical drive scraping edge or surface of media?
3. Noise when spinning discs before mounting on the desktop and reading data is normal. Disc spin should cease 30 seconds after mounting on the desktop. Is the noise related to disc spin and is it louder than another computer of the same type and drive?
Yes Drive mechanism damaged.
Replace optical drive.
No Go to step 2
Yes Go to step 3
No Drive mechanism damaged.
Replace optical drive.
Yes Go to step 4
No Go to step 5
J05
J05
4. Remove the optical drive and
reseat the drive into it’s drive mounting bracket. Reinstall the drive and verify if the drive is still noisy.
5. Noise when ejecting media is normal. Eject known good media and listen to noises. Is the noise related to eject activity and is it louder than another computer of the same type and drive?.
Yes Drive mechanism damaged.
Replace optical drive.
No Optical drive not mounted
correctly. Issue resolved
Yes Drive mechanism damaged.
Replace optical drive.
No Noise not related to optical
drive. Check for hard drive noise or fan noise.
J04
J04
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 64
Uncategorized Symptoms
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether existing
symptom code applies to the issue reported by the user.
Yes Jump to appropriate
symptom code ow.
No Document reported failure
and send feedback to
smfeedback@apple.com
stating that a suitable symptom code wasn’t found. Provide as much detail as possible.
N99
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 65

Input/Output Devices

Apple Remote Inoperable
Unlikely cause: power supply, fan, optical drive, hard drive
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Apple Remote Inoperable
• Apple Remote doesn’t bring up Front Row
• Apple Remote doesn’t control iTunes
• Apple Remote doesn’t control computer volume
1. Make sure you’re using the Apple Remote within 30 feet of the computer, and have an unobstructed line-of-sight to the computer.
2. Make sure you’re pointing the lens end of the Apple Remote directly at the front of the computer, and run PhotoBooth to check that invisible IR signal is coming from remote.
3. Make sure “Disable remote control infrared receiver” checkbox in the Security
4. Ensure that all available Software Updates have been applied to the computer for access to the latest bug xes.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Open System Preferences >
Security. Is “Unpair” available in this preference pane?
Yes Click the “Unpair” button to
disable possible pairing with another Apple Remote. Go to step 3
2010-08-03
2. With a replacement battery, can you see a white ashing light from the Apple Remote in the PhotoBooth video preview window?
3. After clicking “Unpair”, does the computer now respond to the Apple Remote?
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 66
No Possible IR board issue. Go to
step 4
Yes Battery issue. Issue resolved X05
No Apple Remote defective.
Replace the Apple Remote.
Yes Pairing issue. Issue resolved
No Possible IR board issue. Go to
step 4
X04
4. Open the Apple System Proler.
Selecting USB, do you see “IR Receiver” listed?
Yes IR Receiver reporting on USB
bus. Check for IR cable. Go to step 5
No Remove bottom cover, and
fan, and reseat the IR sensor connection to logic board. Replace any damaged IR sensor cable assembly. Go to step 5.
X03
5. Remove bottom cover,
disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and cowling, then disconnect IR/LED sensor cable and connect a known­good sensor assembly to logic board to verify that IR sensor functionality is restored.
Yes Take apart system to access
the IR lens and sensor ,and verify that they are correctly installed and not blocked by any foreign element. If correctly installed, replace IR sensor cable assembly.
No Replace logic board (IR
controller is located on logic board).
Audio: Built-in Speaker Has Distorted Sound
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Audio: Built-in Speakers Have Distorted Sound
• No audio from built-in speaker.
• Audio from speaker is distorted
1. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/ Output options. Verify that the sound output option is set to system’s internal speaker and that the balance control is set to the center position.
2. Obtain known good high quality sound le or use iTunes music store sound samples to evaluate sound quality. Verify suspect sound les on another system to determine whether the distortion is caused by the system or the sound le.
X13
M99
2010-08-03
3. Set volume control to mid-range. Overdriving the built-in speaker can cause distortion.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 67
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Launch System Preferences and
select Sound/Output options. Set speaker balance to the middle, then play a sound le. Verify that sound is generated by the speaker and that the sound quality is acceptable.
2. Connect external speakers or headphones to Headphone Out port then play a sound le. Verify that sound quality is acceptable.
3. Visually inspect speaker cone and speaker connection cable for damage. Does the speaker have visible damage?
4. Install known-good speaker. Verify that sound quality improves.
Yes Speaker and amplier
circuitry OK. Go to step 3.
No Distortion detected in
speaker. Go to step 2
Yes Suspect bad speaker. Go to
step 3.
No Audio CODEC or amplier
issue suspected. Replace logic board. Retest.
Yes Replace damaged speaker.
Retest.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Speaker bad. Replace speaker
and retest.
No Suspect speaker amplier.
Replace logic board.
M09
X09
M09
M09
2010-08-03
Audio: Built-in Speaker Has No Audio
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Audio: Built-in Speakers Have No Audio
• No audio from speaker.
• Audio from speaker distorted
1. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/ Output options. Verify that the sound output option is set to system’s internal speaker.
2. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/ Output options. Verify that the ‘Output Volume’ setting is set above the minimum level and that the ‘mute’ option is not selected.
3. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/ Output options. . Verify that ‘Balance’ is set to middle position
4. Reset PRAM.
5. Go to Deep Dive.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 68
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether boot chime
is present when system is powered ON. Note: make sure audio output preferences are not set to mute and volume is set to mid-range.
2. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/Output options. Set speaker balance to the middle, then play a sound le. Verify that sound is generated by the speaker and that the sound quality is acceptable..
3. Verify whether customer reported audio issue has been resolved.
4. Boot system from Mac mini Install DVD, from a similar Mac mini setup as FireWire Target Disk mode, or from another bootable volume with an up to date system software. Verify whether issue still occurs.
Yes Go to step 2
No Insert headphones into audio
out jack and retest. If issue persists, replace logic board
Yes Speaker and amplier
circuitry OK. Go to step 3.
No Replace speaker. X08
Yes Issue no longer present.
Return system to customer.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Go to step 5.
No Known good boot volume
works OK. Troubleshoot for software issue. Isolate whether issue is application specic or whether possible operating system conict. Make sure user data backed up before removing or reinstalling software.
M09
2010-08-03
5. Connect external speakers to Headphone Out port and set System Preferences Sound/Output to external speakers, then play a sound le. Verify that sound quality is acceptable.
Yes Logic board, internal speaker,
and external headphone port functioning correctly. Return system to user.
No replace logic board M09
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 69
Audio: No Audio through HDMI or Mini DisplayPort connection.
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Audio: No audio through HDMI or DisplayPort connection.
• No audio from external display speaker.
1. Reset PRAM.
2. Connect a known-good HDMI/Mini DiplayPort
display and cables, Power on the display rst then power on the Mac mini. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/Output options. Verify that the HDMI /DisplayPort audio sound output option is available and selected.
3. Check that issue happens with every media type (some copy protected media may not be playable).
4. Check that customer is not using an additional HDMI to DVI adapter or Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter (some adapters may not carry the audio signals)
5. Check that customer veried his display volume level was above zero and not muted.
6. (HDMI) Check that customer veried that his HDMI display model audio compatibility ( early HDMI displays do not support audio, or only some audio modes)
7. Go to Deep Dive.
2010-08-03
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Using known-good HDMI
or Mini DisplayPort display and cables, select external display audio output in System Preferences Sound Output , and verify that you can set System Alert Sounds to same audio port. Note: make sure that audio output preferences are not set to Mute.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 70
Yes Go to step 3
No Go to step 2.
2. Insert headphones jack into audio out jack , them remove it and verify that external display audio out port becomes available in System preferences Sound Output, and sound can be played on the external display speakers.
Yes Issue no longer present.
Return system to customer.
No Go to step 3.
3. Disconnect and reconnect HDMI /Mini DisplayPort cables from computer, and verify whether external display audio out becomes available in System preferences Sound Output, and sound can be played on the external display speakers.
4. Boot system from this model of Mac mini Install DVD, from a similar Mac mini setup as FireWire Target Disk mode, or from another bootable volume with an up to date system software. Verify whether external audio issue still occurs.
Yes Issue no longer present.
Return system to customer.
No Go to step 4
Yes Replace logic board M09
No Known good boot volume
works OK. Troubleshoot for software related issue. Isolate whether issue is application specic or whether possible operating system conict. Make sure user data backed up before removing or reinstalling software.
2010-08-03
FireWire Devices Not Recognized
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
FireWire Devices Not Recognized
• FireWire external drive not recognized
• FireWire printer not recognized
1. For external FireWire drives, make sure any external power source is plugged in and operating to isolate a power issue with the device.
2. Test with a known good FireWire device to isolate a failed peripheral issue.
3. Test with a known good FireWire cable to isolate a FireWire cable issue.
4. Ensure that all available Software Updates have been applied to the computer for access to the latest bug xes.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 71
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Unplug all FireWire devices
from the computer. Start the computer and reset PRAM. Reconnect the FireWire device in question. Is the FireWire device recognized?
2. Use a known good FireWire cable with a known good FireWire device (another Mac in FireWire Target Disk mode is good). Is this device recognized?
3. Is the FireWire device recognized on a known good computer of the same make and model?
4. Is the FireWire device recognized with a known good FireWire cable on the user’s computer?
Yes Issue resolved
No Possible logic board failure.
Go to step 2
Yes Try the FireWire device in
question with a known good computer of the same make and model. Go to step 3
No FireWire not recognized.
Replace main logic board.
Yes Test the FireWire device with
a known good cable on user’s computer. Go to step 4
No FireWire device may need
additional power. Use a powered FireWire hub. Go to step 5
Yes FireWire cable issue. Issue
resolved.
No FireWire device may need
additional power. Use a powered FireWire hub. If the issue persists, check for any rmware updates for the FireWire device. Go to step 5
M12
2010-08-03
5. Using a Powered FireWire hub, and having installed any software or rmware update for the device, is the FireWire device recognized now?
6. Is the FireWire device recognized with a New User?
Yes Device recognized. Required
additional power from hub or update. Issue resolved.
No Device may require additional
software, or there may be a conict in the Mac OS. Test in New User. Go to step 5
Yes Software Issue. Troubleshoot
software on User account. Issue resolved.
No Apply all Mac OS updates. If
the issue persists, replace the FireWire device.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 72
SD (Secure Digital) Memory Card Will Not Insert Into Slot
Unlikely cause: Optical drive, hard drive, power supply
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
SD Memory Card will not insert into SD Slot
SD Memory Card does not fully seat into the slot
Card slot does not align with enclosure.
1. The SD memory card must be a 32 mm by 24 mm by 2.1 mm. You can also use thinner cards, such as MultiMediaCards (MMC).
2. Clear any obstruction in the slot.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether a known-good
SD card ts in slot.
Yes Ask customer to replace
defective or out-of-spec SD card.
No Make sure that SD card reader
slot is aligned with rear cover, with no foreign material obstructing the slot, then try to insert a known-good SD card again. Go to Step 2.
2010-08-03
2. Verify if the memory card now ts in the SD slot.
3. Verify whether the SD card now ejects and inserts without issue.
Yes Issue resolved. Go to step 3
No Replace logic board (SD card
reader is part of logic board).
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace logic board (SD card
reader is part of logic board). .
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 73
M17
M17
SD (Secure Digital) Memory Card Not Recognized By System
Unlikely cause: optical drive, hard drive, power supply
Quick Check
Symptom Quick Check
SD Memory Card is not recognized by the system.
Card does not show up on the desktop or in System Proler
1. Insert customer’s SD card into a known-good system and verify that it functions properly. If the card cannot be read, contact the manufacturer for support options.
2. Verify with known-good SD Memory card that issue remains.
3. Check correct drivers are installed for the customer’s SD card type. Standard SD memory cards are supported by OS Software, but other may require specic driver software to be used.
4. SDHC cards may require that all latest system software updates have been applied.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether SD card inserts
correctly in SD slot.
Yes Go to step 2.
No Go to SD Memory card Will
Not Insert Into Slot” Symptom ow..
2010-08-03
2. Unlock and insert the SD card and verify whether it shows up on the desktop or in System Proler.
3. Insert a known-good (NON SDHC) unlocked SD Memory card and verify whether Read/ Write capabilities are working.
4. Run Apple System Proler and verify whether the SD Card reader is now listed in the USB devices
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 74
Yes Go to step 7
No Go to step 3.
Yes Go to step 5.
No Go to step 4.
Yes SD card reader seen. Go to
step 5 .
No Replace logic board (SD card
reader is part of logic board). .
M17
5. Check that all system software
have been applied before insert a known-good unlocked SDHC Memory card and verify that it can now be correctly read and written on system.
Yes Go to step 6
No Replace Logic board. M17
6. Retry with customer’s SD card and verify that it can now be correctly read and written on system
7. Lock the customer SD Card and verify whether it can’t anymore be written..
Yes Issue xed by software
update. Go to step 7.
No Only customer’s SD card is
not functioning properly. Contact vendor for support options.
Yes System is functional.
No Replace logic board. M17
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 75
USB Devices Not Recognized
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
USB Devices Not Recognized
• USB wired keyboard/mouse not recognized
• USB external drive not recognized
• USB printer not recognized
1. For printers and external USB drives, make sure any external power source is plugged in and operating to isolate a power issue with the device.
2. The system has 4 USB ports on the rear of the computer. Make sure to try each port to isolate a particular port malfunction.
3. Test with a known good wired keyboard or mouse to isolate a failed peripheral issue.
4. Test with a known good USB cable when dealing with a printer or external USB drive, to isolate a USB cable issue.
5. Ensure that all available Software Updates have been applied to the computer for access to the latest bug xes.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Unplug all USB devices from
the computer except for the keyboard and mouse. Start the computer and reset PRAM. Are the keyboard and mouse recognized?
Yes Test in all USB ports to ensure
all USB ports working as expected. Replace logic board for any port failures.
No Possible logic board failure.
Go to step 2
2010-08-03
2. Did Bluetooth Mouse Setup assistant launch after startup?
Yes Bluetooth detected via
Internal USB, but external USB devices not recognized. Go to step 3
No Bluetooth not recognized
via internal USB. Disconnect mouse and keyboard. Go to step 4
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 76
3. Are known good mouse and keyboard recognized?
Yes Test original mouse and
keyboard. Replace if still not recognized. Go to step 5
No External USB ports not
functioning. Replace logic board.
4. With no USB devices connected, restart the computer. Did Bluetooth Mouse Setup assistant launch after startup?
5. With known good mouse and keyboard working, test other USB peripheral in question (USB external drive or printer, etc.). Is the device recognized via Apple System Proler under USB?
6. Does powered USB hub resolve issue?
Yes Bluetooth detected via
Internal USB. Go to step 3
No Bluetooth not recognized
via internal USB. Internal and external USB not functioning. Replace logic board.
Yes Device recognized. Test in all
USB ports to ensure all USB ports working as expected. Replace logic board for any port failures.
No Device may require more
power than supplied by USB ports. Try powered USB hub. Go to step 6
Yes Test device on another
computer of the same make and model. If another computer does not require a powered USB hub to allow functionality, replace the logic board
M15
2010-08-03
No Test device on another
computer of the same make and model. If another computer does not recognize the device, replace the device
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 77
Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly
• Some or all keys on the keyboard don’t work
• Eject key or Caps Lock key doesn’t seem to work
• Some keys don’t work as expected
1. The system has 4 USB ports on the rear of the computer. Make sure to try each port to isolate a particular port malfunction.
2. Test with a known good wired keyboard to isolate a failed peripheral issue.
3. Test the keyboard on another Mac. If it works here, you may have bad USB port if the keyboard doesn’t work at all, or a software issue if the keyboard is working but not as expected.
4. Ensure that all available Software Updates have been applied to the computer for access to the latest bug xes.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Do any of the keys on the
keyboard work?
Yes Go to step 2
No Go to USB Port Doesn’t
Recognize Devices symptom
2010-08-03
2. Is the Caps Lock working as expected?
3. Is the media Eject key working as expected?
4. Open System Preferences > Speech. Is “Speak selected text when the key is pressed” enabled?
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 78
Yes Go to step 3
No Go to Keyboard: Specic keys
do not respond symptom
Yes Go to step 4
No To prevent accidentally
ejecting media, Mac OS X adds a slight delay to the Media Eject key before it takes eect. Go to step 5
Yes The key combination to speak
text cannot be used for any other purpose. Either disable, or change to a more rare key combination (including Shift, Command, Option and Control).
No Go to step 6 M15
5. With optical media in the drive, hold the Media Eject key. Does the disc eject normally and the eject symbol appear?
Yes Media eject key delay. No
repair necessary.
No Go to Optical Drive Won’t
Accept/Reject Media
6. Open System Preferences > Universal Access > Keyboard. Is “Slow Keys” enabled?
7. Open System Preferences > Universal Access > Keyboard. Is “Mouse Keys” enabled?
8. Open System Preferences > International > Input Menu. Check “Keyboard Viewer”. Then, from the Input Menu in the Menu Bar (ag), choose “Show Keyboard Viewer”. When typing on the keys that are not responding, do they show in the Keyboard Viewer?
Yes With “Slow Keys” on, you need
to press a key for a longer period of time for it to be recognized.
No Go to step 7
Yes With “Mouse Keys” on, you
cannot use the Numeric Keypad to enter numbers. It will move the mouse pointer instead.
No Go to step 8
Yes The keys are being
recognized. Go to step 9
No The keys are not being
recognized. Replace the keyboard.
K01
9. Open TextEdit or another text
application and try typing something using the non­responding keys. Do they type in another application?
Yes Application specic issue.
Troubleshoot the application.
No Test another User to isolate a
User account issue. If the issue persists, reinstall Mac OS X from the Install DVD.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 79
Keyboard: Specic Keys Do Not Respond
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Keyboard: Specic Keys Do Not Respond
• One or more keys do not respond when pressed
• Key sticks
• Keycap missing
1. If wireless keyboard is being used verify that it is properly paired with the system. Go to ‘Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair’ symptom ow to resolve pairing issues.
2. The caps lock key has a built-in delay to reduce accidental activation and must be held for approximately ½ second for it to be activated. Refer to http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1578 for additional information.
3. Inspect the keyboard for signs of liquid spills or other contamination. Apple’s warranty does not cover accidental damage.
4. If the keycap is loose attempt to reattach it.
5. For other keyboard issues jump to the
appropriate symptom ow.
Wired Keyboard/Mouse Not Recognized
Quick Check
2010-08-03
Symptoms Quick Check
Wired Keyboard/Mouse Not Recognized
• USB wired keyboard/mouse not recognized when plugged in.
• Mouse scroll ball not working or not working as expected.
• Mouse buttons not working or not working as expected.
1. The Mac mini has 4 USB ports on the rear of the computer. Make sure to try each port to isolate a particular port malfunction.
2. Test with a known good wired keyboard or mouse to isolate a failed peripheral issue. .
3. Ensure that all available Software Updates have been applied to the computer for access to the latest bug xes.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 80
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Does the computer recognize
the keyboard or mouse when plugged into the USB ports?
2. Is keyboard working as expected?
3. Does the Mouse have an issue with the scroll?
4. Doe the Mouse have an issue with the buttons?
Yes Test in all USB ports to ensure
all USB ports working as expected. Replace logic board for any rear port failures. Replace keyboard for any keyboard USB port failures. Go to step 2
No Go to USB Port Doesn’t
Recognize Devices symptom
Yes Go to step 3
No Go to Wired Keyboard Does
Not Work Properly symptom
Yes See KBase article <http://
support.apple.com/kb/ HT1537> for steps to correct
No Go to step 4
Yes See KBase article <http://
support.apple.com/kb/ HT1581> for steps to
determine expected behavior. Go to step 7
5. Does the Mouse have an issue with tracking?
6. When used on another surface does the mouse track correctly?
7. See KBase article <http://
support.apple.com/kb/ HT1581> to further determine
expected behavior. Did this article resolve the issue?
No Go to step 5
Yes Try using the mouse on
another surface. Non­reective, opaque surfaces without repetitive patterns work best. The surface should be clean but not shiny. Go to step 6
No Go to step 7
Yes Surface issue. Issue resolved.
No Go to step 7
Yes Issue resolved.
No Replace the Mouse K99
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 81
Uncategorized Symptoms
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptoms
• Unable to locate appropriate symptom code.
1. Verify that external I/O device (where applicable) works on another system.
2. For third party I/O devices make sure necessary software is installed and up to date, and that the device is supported with the user’s system.
3. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether existing
symptom code applies to the issue reported by the user.
Yes Jump to appropriate
symptom code ow.
No Document reported failure
and send feedback to
smfeedback@apple.com
stating that a suitable symptom code wasn’t found. Provide as much detail as possible.
N99
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 82

Mechanical

Noise/Hum/Vibration
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Noise/Hum/Vibration
• Buzzing noise
• Rattling noise
• Ticking noise
• Squeaking noise
1. Verify that the vents on the bottom system are free of dust and other obstructions that might inhibit proper airow through the system. .
2. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor. Determine whether an application or process is consuming a high percentage of CPU bandwidth. CPU intensive applications can cause the fans to run fast in order to maintain the proper internal system temperatures. If needed, quit the application or restart the system to resolve the issue.
3. Play sound sample at loud and soft volume levels to determine if the noise is caused by the speaker or the amplier circuit. Jump to ‘Distorted sound from built-in speaker’ symptom ow for additional information.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mechanical 83
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Run latest available service
utilities to check the thermal sensors and fan functional states. Was an error generated?
2. Does noise sound like fan is running faster than expected?
3. If an optical drive is present, does the noise change when the optical drive is being accessed or media is inserted or ejected?
4. Mute the system volume. Verify whether the issue still occurs.
Yes Check fan connection to logic
board and retest.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Reset SMC by disconnecting
power cord for ~15 seconds then retest. If issue continues go to step 3.
No Go to step 5.
Yes Suspect issue with optical
drive or the media being used. Jump to ‘Optical Drive Noisy symptom ow for additional information.
No Go to step 4.
Yes Go to step 5.
No Suspect issue with speaker
or audio amplier circuitry. Go to ‘Distorted Sound From Internal Speaker’ symptom ow for additional information.
2010-08-03
5. Remove bottom cover, disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and rotate its blades. Verify that fan blades spin smoothly without interference from fan housing and does not produce abnormal noise.
Yes Fan reseated, blades rotate,
noise gone.
No Reinstall fan , making sure
that the blades do not interfere with other elements or cable routings when installed and retest. If fan does not correctly spin or has broken blade, replace aected fan.
Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mechanical 84
X23
System Runs Hot
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
System Runs Hot
• System feels very hot
• Fan not operating
• Fan running fast
• System is noisy
1. Verify that the vents on the bottom are free of dust and other obstructions that might inhibit proper airow through the system.
2. Verify that the computer is not exposed to direct sunlight which may heat up the enclosure making it feel hot to the touch.
3. Verify the computer is not running hotter than expected for normal operation.
4. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor. Determine whether an application or process is consuming a high percentage of CPU bandwidth. CPU intensive applications can cause the fans to run fast in order to maintain the proper internal system temperatures. If needed, quit the application or restart the system to resolve the issue.
5. Reset SMC by unplugging power cord for ~15 seconds.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
2010-08-03
1. Run latest available service utilities for thermal sensor or fan functional state. Was an error generated?
2. Does noise sound like fan is running faster than expected?
3. Remove bottom cover, disconnect AirPort antenna and remove shield, disconnect and remove fan and rotate its blades. Verify that fan blades spin smoothly without interference from fan housing.
Yes Suspect possible fan or
sensor error. Check fan cable connection to the interconnect board.
No Go to step 2.
Yes Fan running fast. Reset SMC
by disconnecting power cord for ~15 seconds then retest. If issue continues go to step 3.
No Go to step 3.
Yes Fan reseated, blades rotate.
No Replace aected fan. Go to
step 4.
Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mechanical 85
X22
4. With replaced fan verify
temperature issue is gone.
Yes Issue resolved
No Go to step 5.
5. Using latest service utilities, verify that all thermal sensors have correct values.
Yes Issue resolved
No -If a TG0H heatsink sensor is
reported failing, reseat the sensor cable on logic board. If issue persists, replace heatsink assembly
-If a TH0x Hard drive, or TO0x Optical drive, TA0P Ambient sensor failure is reported, replace aected sensor assembly
-If aTCxx ,TGXX , or TMxx sensor is reported failing, replace logic board module,
-If a TPxx is reported failing, replace power supply module,
-If a TWxx is reported failing, replace AirPort/Bluetooth card.
Retest computer after part/ module has been replaced.
X10
M18
P05
N03
Physical Damage
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
Physical Damage
• Stripped screw/head
• Stripped screw boss
• Dent or scratch to chassis
1. Determine whether damage caused by user environment, accidental damage, or abuse. If applicable inform the user that Apple does not warrant damage caused by accident, abuse, misuse, ood, re, earthquake, or other external causes. For more information refer to: http://
www.apple.com/legal/warranty
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mechanical 86
Uncategorized Symptoms
Check Result Action Code
1. Verify whether existing
symptom code applies to the issue reported by the user.
Yes Jump to appropriate
symptom code ow.
No Document reported failure
and send feedback to
smfeedback@apple.com
stating that a suitable symptom code wasn’t found. Provide as much detail as possible.
N99
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mechanical 87
 Service Source

Take Apart

Mac mini (Mid 2010)
Mac mini (Mid 2010) and Mac mini Server (Mid 2010)
© 2010 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

General Information

Tools

The following tools are required to service the computer:
• ESD wriststrap and mat
• Torx T6, magnetized
• Torx T8, magnetized
• Torx T9, magnetized
• Hex 2mm (or 5/64-inch) wrench
• #0 Phillips screwdriver
• Logic board removal tool (922-9588) Important: This is a required tool to service the Mac mini (Mid 2010)
• Tweezers (optional)
• Black stick (922-5065), or other non-conductive nylon or plastic tool
• Soft cloth (to protect removed parts from scratches)
• Isopropyl alcohol and cleaning cloth (if needed)
• Scissors or razor knife to cut tape to size (if needed)
• Screw tray
Note: The logic board removal tool is required to dislodge the logic board assembly. Dislodging or removing the logic board assembly is required to access many parts (see the First Remove
Hierarchy heading).
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

Cosmetic Care

Cosmetic surfaces have a high exposure to potential damage or scratching, due to the method of working on the Mac mini (Mid 2010). Be extremely careful not to damage the housing and other cosmetic surfaces with inadvertent tool movements, or to damage the cosmetic Mylar on the top hard drive when removing or installing. In general, avoid scratching interior or exterior surfaces, and avoid leaving ngerprints.

Reassembly Steps

When there are no replacement steps listed, replace parts in the exact reverse order of the Removal procedure.
2010-08-03
Important: Do not overtighten screws. Install all screws by hand. Do not use power tools.
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 89

Connector Types on Logic Board

The Mac mini (Mid 2010) has many small and delicate cable connectors and screws. Use extra care and nesse to avoid damaging components.
Vertical Insertion (JST)
Important: These connectors are extremely fragile. Use extreme care. Major repairs may be needed if damaged.
• Use a black stick under the cable, next to the connector, with a nger over the top for support, or grasp cables with tweezers, and lift straight up to remove.
• Keep connector level to board when disconnecting and reconnecting.
• When connecting, verify that the grooves in the connector face down.
• Press evenly when reconnecting or connector can be tipped up and not fully seated.
On the logic board are two types of connectors, each requiring special handling. Make sure you read these tips before disconnecting and installing the connectors.
Low-Prole Solid Platform Flex
• Use black stick and
gentle rocking motion to release tension to remove cable.
• Keep connector level
to board and press evenly to install cable.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 90
A: 076-1369 (approx. 8 cm)
• top hard drive (at corner)
• bottom hard drive (server)
B: 076-1370 (approx. 6.8 cm)
• top hard drive ex cable
(Ambient)
• optical drive

Thermal Sensor Replacement

If a replaceable thermal sensor is damaged or defective, follow the procedures below to replace.
There are three locations where thermal sensors are replaceable separately.
• the top hard drive ex cable (this sensor is referred to as “Ambient”)
• the corner of the top hard drive
• the bottom drive (either an optical, or a server hard drive)
Notes:
• The sensors are the same except for cable length. Make sure to use the correct sensor for the location.
• The sensors come with black Kapton tape. Use the appropriate tape for the location, as described below.
• Rub o any adhesive residue and clean the location where the sensor will be attached with isopropyl alcohol, before installing the replacement sensor.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 91
Top hard drive thermal sensor (at corner) (076-1369):
1. Remove the adhesive cover and attach the sensor pad to the location shown.
2. Guide the cable around the corner of the hard drive and secure with tape, as shown.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 92
3. Secure the sensor with tape and fold around corner.
4. The nished installation should look like this.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 93
Top hard drive ambient thermal sensor (ex cable) (076-1370):
(This sensor is also replaceable by replacing the ex cable, which comes with the sensor installed.)
1. Remove the adhesive cover and attach the sensor pad to the ex cable where shown below.
2. Verify the ex cable is installed on the hard drive.
3. Cut approximately a 1.5 cm length of the supplied black Kapton tape.
4. Orient the round end of the tape up, center the tape over the sensor and press to secure the
tape over the sensor and to the ex cable, then wrap the ends of the tape over the top and bottom of the hard drive, as shown.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 94
Optical drive thermal sensor (076-1370):
The thermal sensor may be replaced without removing the optical drive.
1. Remove the adhesive cover and attach the sensor pad where shown below.
2. Secure the sensor and cable with tape, as shown here.
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 95
Bottom hard drive thermal sensor (server) (076-1369):
The thermal sensor may be replaced without removing the hard drive.
1. Remove the adhesive cover then attach the sensor pad and secure the cable with tape where shown below.
2010-08-03
:
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 96

Logic Board EMI Fingers and Gaskets

Be careful not to touch or damage the EMI ngers or gaskets on the logic board assembly, the housing opening, or on the bottom cover.

Logic Board Return

Important: Return the logic board to Apple in the correct packaging and in the same
conguration as the replacement board (as shown below)
• Speaker
• Wireless card ex cable
• Screws
2010-08-03
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 97
Bottom Cover

First Remove Hierarchy

Some parts must be removed before others can be removed. Here is a chart of the progression of part removal.
Parts above must be removed before the part below. Parts on the same level can be removed independently of others on that level.
Fan
Cowling
Plate
Antenna
MLB Assembly
Upper RAM
Module
Lower RAM
Module
Upper RAM
Module
Lower RAM
Module
Wireless Card Power Supply
Speaker Hard Drive
Optical Drive or
Hard Drive (Server) Assy
(partial remove option)
Battery
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ODD or HDD
Carrier
IR Board
w/cable
Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 98
Housing

Icon Legend

The following icons are used in this chapter:
Icon Meaning
Warning or Caution
Check mark; make sure you do this
Do not touch

Note About Images In This Guide

Because a pre-production model was used for many of the images shown in this manual, you may notice small dierences in appearance between the image pictured and the computer you are servicing. However, although the appearance may dier, the steps and sequence are the same unless noted.
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Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — General Information 99
First Steps
• Shut down the computer.
• Place the computer on a clean, at surface.

Bottom Cover

Tools
No tools are required for this procedure.
Black stick (optional)
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Mac mini (Mid 2010) Take Apart — Bottom Cover 100
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