Technical Manual Imac21 Inch Late09

8/20/2019 Technical Manual Imac21 Inch Late09

http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/technical-manual-imac21-inch-late09 1/218

Apple Technician Guide

iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Updated: 2009-11-24



Apple Inc.

© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Every eort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate. Apple

is not responsible for printing or clerical errors.

Apple

1 Innite Loop

Cupertino, CA 95014-2084

USA

+ 1 408 996 1010

www.apple.com

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



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009)

Contents

About This Guide

Updates 9Updated 24 November 2009 9Updated 28 October 2009 9Introduced 20 October 2009 9

Feedback 9

Basics

Overview 11Identifying Features 11Product Congurations 12

Wireless Troubleshooting 12

Safety 12

Serial Number Location 13

TroubleshootingGeneral Troubleshooting 15

Wireless Troubleshooting 15Update System Software & Firmware 15

Troubleshooting Theory 15Hardware vs. Software 15Common Reset Procedures 16

Power On Self Test (POST) 16Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) 16Resetting Parameter RAM (PRAM) 17

Starting Up in Safe Mode 17Apple Service Diagnostics 18Diagnostic LEDs 19

LED Functions 20

LED Startup Sequence 21

Logic Board Test Points 22

Sensor and Fan Connector Locations 23

Block Diagram 24



Symptom Charts 25Startup and Power 25

No Power, Dead Unit 25Won’t Start Up 27

Intermittent Shutdown 29

Kernel Panic, System Crashes 31No Video 33

Corrupted Video 34

Burnt Smell/Odor 37

Uncategorized Symptoms 38Display 39

Backlight Issue/No Backlight 39

Noise / Unstable Flickering 41

LCD Image Issues 43

Incorrect/Missing Colors 44

Distorted/Blurred Image 45

Pixel Anomalies 47Vertical/Horizontal Lines 48Non-Uniform Brightness 50

Cosmetic Defects 51

Uncategorized Symptoms 51

Mass Storage 52

Hard Drive Not Recognized 52

Hard Drive Read/Write Errors 54

Hard Drive Noisy 55Optical Drive Not Recognized 57

Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Eject Media 58

Optical Drive Read/Write Error 59

Optical Drive Not Performing to Specications 61

Optical Drive Noisy 62

SD Card Will Not Insert Into Slot 63

SD Card Not Recognized 64

Uncategorized Symptoms 65Communications 66

AirPort/Bluetooth Issues 66AirPort Card Kernel Panic 68Ethernet Port/Device Issue 69

Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair 70

Wireless Input Device Loses Connection 72

Uncategorized Symptoms 74

Input/Output Devices 75Apple Remote Inoperable 75Audio: Microphone 77

Audio: Built-in Speakers Have Distorted Sound 78Audio: Built-in Speakers Have No Audio 79



Camera Issues 81

FireWire Device Not Recognized 82

USB Device Not Recognized 84

Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly 86Keyboard: Specic Keys Do Not Respond 88

Wired Keyboard/Mouse Not Recognized 88Uncategorized Symptoms 90

Mechanical 91

Noise/Hum/Vibration 91

Fan Failures / Thermal Issues 94

Stand/Hinge Issues 95Physical Damage 96Uncategorized Symptoms 96

Take Apart

General Information 98Opening the Unit 98Required Tools 98

Required Special Tools for Glass Panel 99

Cleaning Tools Starter Kit 99

Cleaning Tool Resources 99

Cleaning & Handling the Glass Panel 100

Do’s and Don’ts 100

Handling a Broken Glass Panel 100

How to Remove a Broken Glass Panel 101

Safety 105

Logic Board Handling 106Note About Images in This Guide 106

Access Door 107

Memory 109

Glass Panel 111Removal 112

Reassembly 113

Camera 116

LCD Panel 118

Vertical Sync Cable 122

LCD Temp Sensor Cable 123

LVDS Cable 124



Bluetooth Antenna 125

Bluetooth Board 127

AirPort Antenna 129

AirPort Card 131AirPort Cable 133

AirPort Carrier Board 135

LED Backlight Board 137

Power Supply 139

Backlight Pressure Wall 141

Power Supply Pressure Wall 143

Hard Drive 145

Hard Drive Sensor Cable 148

Bluetooth Cable 150

Camera Cable 153

Optical Drive 156

Optical Drive Sensor Cable 159

Optical Drive Fan 161SD Board 163

SD Cable 165

Audio Cable 167

IR Board & Cable 169

Logic Board 171

Video Card 178

Battery 180

Hard Drive Data Cable 182

Optical Drive Data Cable 184

Cable, AC/DC Power/Backlight/SATA 186



CPU Fan 187

Ambient Temp Sensor 190

Left Speaker 192

Right Speaker 194Hard Drive Fan 196

Mechanism Cover 198

Stand 200

Mechanism 202

Microphone Cable 204

Rear Housing 205

Views

Exploded Views 208iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009), Part 1 208iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009), Part 2 209

iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009), Part 3 210

Screw Chart 211

External Views 213

Front View 213Rear View 214

I/O Ports 215

Internal Views 216Photo of Components below LCD 216Photo of Components below Logic Board 217

Logic Board, Front Side 218Logic Board, Back Side 218





About This GuideiMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009)



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) — Updates 92009-11-24

Updates

Updated 24 November 2009

TroubleshootingGeneral: Updated close-up image of diagnostic LEDs.•Mechanical: Fan noise issues: updated two topics, “Noise/Hum/Vibration” and “Fan Failures/•

Thermal Issues” with the following information:Check: Verify if any tape, gasket, cable label, or cable is touching the fan blades and•causing a ticking noise.Actions: Secure the material so it doesn’t touch fan blades. If tape adhesive has lost its•stickiness, replace that section of tape.

Take ApartGeneral Information: Added images to section “How to Remove a Broken Glass Panel.”•Hard Drive and Hard Drive Sensor Cable: Added information about connecting sensor cables•to Western Digital drives: Orient the drive with its circuit board facing up and connect thesensor cable to the hard drive pins, leaving the 2 left pins unconnected (exposed).Logic Board: Added note that logic board may be easier to remove if RAM is removed rst.•

ViewsExploded Views: Added part numbers for Power Supply Pressure Wall (922-9281), Backlight•Pressure Wall (922-9282), Bluetooth Antenna (922-9283), and AirPort Antenna (922-9284).

Updated 28 October 2009Basics: Added another kBase link to Wireless Troubleshooting section.•

Troubleshooting: General: Added another kBase link to Wireless Troubleshooting section.• Take Apart: General: Added• section “How to Remove a Broken Glass Panel.”

Introduced 20 October 2009

Feedback

We want your feedback to help improve this and future Technician Guides!Please email any comments to: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]?subject=iMac%20(21.5-inch,%20Late%202009)






BasicsiMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009)



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Basics — Overview 112009-11-24

Overview

Identifying Features

The iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) has an all-aluminum enclosure with a glass front. It can bedistinguished from the previous model by the glass extending all the way to the top, left andright edges, rather than having an aluminum bezel that borders the glass. Also, the rear of thecomputer is aluminum rather than black plastic.

This model’s other new features include:Larger and LED-backlit 21.5-inch 16:9 display with 1920x1080 native HD resolution•Increased processor speeds: 3.06 GHz or 3.33 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo•Integrated NVIDIA GeForce 9400M or ATI Radeon HD 4670 graphics•

Four RAM memory slots: two slots are lled with at least 2GB each, for a total of 4GB;•maximum RAM is 16GBLarger hard drive options: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB (CTO only)•SD card reader•New Apple Wireless Keyboard and wireless Magic Mouse, standard with all congurations•Ships with and requires at least Mac OS 10.6.1 (Snow Leopard)•




Product Congurations

For product congurations, refer to AppleCare Tech Specs: http://support.apple.com/specs/

Wireless Troubleshooting

If you’re having issues with Bluetooth and wireless connectivity issues, refer to the followingApple Knowledge Base articles:

kBase #TS3048: Desktop computers: Troubleshooting wireless mouse and keyboard issues kBase #HT1365: AirPort and Bluetooth: Potential source of interference kBase #HT3903: Apple Wireless Keyboard and Mouse: How to install batteries

Safety

Warning: HIGH VOLTAGE:The AC/DC power supply PCB remains powered up wheneversystem is plugged in, whether or not system has been turned on. Use extreme cautionwhen troubleshooting system with glass panel and LCD panel removed.

Important: If computer is shut down by removing power cord, allow power supply a good 2-3minutes to discharge capacitors before handling it. However, if you select “Shut Down” via theApple menu, the computer will discharge power supply capacitor almost immediately.

http://support.apple.com/specs/

http://support.apple.com/kb/TS3048


http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1365






http://support.apple.com/specs/




Serial Number Location

The iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009)’s serial number is located on the bottom of the stand. Whenreplacing a stand, transfer the serial number to the new stand.





TroubleshootingiMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009)



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) — General Troubleshooting 152009-11-24

General Troubleshooting

Wireless Troubleshooting

If you’re having issues with Bluetooth and wireless connectivity issues, refer to: kBase #TS3048: Desktop computers: Troubleshooting wireless mouse and keyboard issues kBase #HT1365: AirPort and Bluetooth: Potential source of interference kBase #HT3903: Apple Wireless Keyboard and Mouse: How to install batteries

Update System Software & Firmware

Important: Whenever possible before beginning troubleshooting, ensure the latest softwareand rmware updates have been applied.

Firmware is the name given to software that is written into memory circuits such as ashmemory, that will hold the software code indenitely, even when power is removed fromthe hardware. Firmware on Intel Mac computers is designed to be updated if necessary byrunning the Mac OS X Software Update check (available in the Apple menu) while computer isconnected to the Internet. For more information about rmware updates, refer to: kBase # HT1557: About rmware updates for Intel-based Macs

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: kBase #TS1388: Isolating issues in Mac OS X

For information on how to troubleshoot a software issue, refer to:kBase #HT1199: Mac OS X: How to troubleshoot a software issue kBase #TS1394: Mac OS X: Troubleshooting installation and software updates kBase #HT2956: Troubleshooting Mac OS X installation from CD or DVD

























Common Reset Procedures

Power On Self Test (POST)

Intel-based Mac computers such as the iMac rely on a combination of tones to indicate PowerOn Self Test (POST) error codes.

If the computer detects out-of-specication or no SDRAM, the screen will remain black•but the computer will beep. This error condition may be due to physically damaged RAM,installing incorrect type of RAM, or not having RAM installed.Some RAM may appear to pass the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) but still cannot be used by•the operating system. In this case, the computer will display a gray screen, sound threetones and repeat tones until computer is turned o.

The solution to both situations is to rst re-seat memory and test computer again. If•memory fails POST again, remove all installed memory and test by installing one by oneeach memory that has been veried to work correctly on another system (i.e., “known-good”) or order new memory.

For more information, refer to: kBase #HT2538: iMac (Mid 2007) and later models: About new startup tones

Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)

The System Management Controller (SMC) is a chip on logic board that controls all powerfunctions. If computer is experiencing any power issue, such as not starting up, not displayingvideo, sleep issues, or fan noise issues, resetting SMC may resolve it. To reset SMC on an iMac:

From Apple menu, choose Shut Down (or if the computer is not responding, hold power1.button for approximately ten seconds until it powers o).

Unplug all cables from computer, including power cord.2.

Wait at least 15 seconds. SMC reset occurs automatically once iMac has been unplugged3.from AC power source for several seconds.

Plug power cord back in, making sure power button is not being pressed.4.

Press power button on back to start up computer.5.

For more information, refer to: kBase #HT1543: Intel-based iMac: How to reset the System Management Controller









Resetting Parameter RAM (PRAM)

PRAM stores certain system and device settings in a location that Mac OS X can access quickly.Exactly which settings are stored in the computer’s PRAM varies depending on the type ofcomputer as well as the types of devices and drives connected. To reset PRAM:

Shut down the computer.1.

Locate the following keys on keyboard: Command, Option, P, and R. You will need to hold2.these keys down simultaneously in Step 4. Note: If the keyboard does not have an Option key, use the Alt key instead.

Press power button.3.

Immediately press and hold Command-Option-P-R keys. 4.Important: You must press this key combination before the gray screen appears.

Hold down keys until the computer restarts, and you hear the startup chime a second time.5.

Release keys.6.

For more information, refer to: kBase #HT1242: Mac OS X: What’s stored in PRAM

kBase #HT1379: Resetting your Mac’s PRAM and NVRAM

Starting Up in Safe Mode

Starting up into Safe Mode does several things that can help resolve software or directoryissues that may exist on the startup volume. To start up in Safe Mode:

Shut down the computer.1.

Press power button.2.Immediately after you hear startup tone, press and hold Shift key. 3.Note: The Shift key should be held as soon as possible after startup tone but not before.

Release Shift key when you see the screen with a gray Apple and progress indicator (looks4.like a spinning gear). Note that booting into Safe Mode will take longer than a normalstartup. During startup, the words ”Safe Boot” will appear on Mac OS X startup screen.

To leave Safe Mode, restart computer normally, without holding down any keys during5.startup.

For more information, refer to:

kBase #HT1564: Mac OS X: What is Safe Boot, Safe Mode? kBase #TS1884: Safe Boot takes longer than normal startup













Apple Service Diagnostics

Run Apple Service Diagnostic version 3S133 to determine if any thermal sensors or blowers aremalfunctioning. If ASD is not available, run Apple Hardware Test by holding down the D keyduring startup. When a test reports an error, reseat appropriate connections. If issue persists,replace the corresponding part (sensor, fan, logic board, video card, or power supply). See chartbelow for correlation between error code, aected sensor, sensor location (stand-alone, or partof a sub-assembly), and additional checks to perform.

Error Sensor and Location Check

TA0P Ambient temp sensor stand-alone part, located near CPU fan

Check sensor cable connectionto logic board, run CPU fan test,check air ow.

TC0H CPU heatsink sensor part of logic board

Check CPU sensor cableconnection to logic board, runCPU fan test, check air ow.

TG0D MXM GPU die sensor part of MXM video card

Run ODD fan test, check airow.

TG0H MXM GPU heatsink sensor part of MXM video card

Check video card sensor cableconnection to logic board, runODD fan test, check air ow.

TH0O HDD sensor stand-alone part, located on hard drive

Check sensor cable connectionto logic board, run HDD fantest, check air ow.

TL0p LCD temp sensor stand-alone part, located on back of LCD panel

Check sensor cable connectionto logic board, run all fans tests,

check air ow. TN0H MCP79 heatsink

part of logic board, located on heatsink Check sensor cable connectionto logic board, run HDD fantest, check air ow.

TO0p ODD sensor stand-alone part, located on optical drive

Check sensor cable connectionto logic board, run ODD fantest, check air ow.

Tp1P PS1 T1 proximity sensor part of power supply

Check logic board to powersupply cable connections, runCPU fan test, check air ow. Tp2H PS1 T2 secondary heatsink sensor

part of power supply

Tp3H PS1 T1 primary heatsink sensor part of power supply




Diagnostic LEDs

Depending on iMac model, there are either three or four built-in diagnostic LEDs on the logicboard that can help troubleshoot the computer. LEDs are located on bottom right edge of logicboard (under a piece of black mylar tape) and can only be seen when looking through lowervents of rear housing.




LED Functions

LED #1Indicates that trickle voltage from power supply has been detected by logic board. This LED•will remain ON whenever the iMac is connected to a working AC power source. The LED willremain on even when computer has been shut down or put to sleep. The LED will turn oonly if AC power source is disconnected or power supply is faulty.

LED #2Indicates that logic board has detected power from power supply when computer is•turned on. This LED will be ON when computer is turned on and power supply and voltageregulators are working correctly.

LED #3

Indicates that computer and video card are communicating. This LED will be ON when•computer is communicating properly with video card. If LEDs 1 and 2 are ON and you heardthe startup sound, but LED 3 is OFF, then video card might be installed incorrectly or needreplacement. Note: LED #3 is not present on models with integrated graphics.

LED #4Indicates that computer and LCD panel are communicating. This LED will be ON when•computer is turned on and video signal is being generated. If LED 4 is ON and there isno image on display, then LCD panel, LED backlight board, or cables between might beinstalled incorrectly or need replacement.




LED Startup Sequence

LED #1 = Power available.

If no LED is visible:Verify AC source•

Verify known-good AC cable is connected• Verify cable connection between AC inlet and power supply•Verify cable connection between power supply and logic board•Verify power supply•

LED #1 + LED #2 = Power available, and system is powered on.

If second LED is not visible when power button is pressed:Verify power button connection to logic board•Verify power button functionality•Verify cable connection between power supply and logic board•Verify power supply•

Verify logic board•

LED #1 + LED #2 + LED #3 = Power available, system is powered on, and video card found.

If third LED is not visible after power on:Verify that MXM video card is seated properly•Verify logic board•

LED #1 + LED #2 + LED #3 + LED #4 = Power available, system is powered on, video cardfound, and internal LCD found.

If fourth LED is not visible after power on:

Verify cable connections between LCD panel and logic board•Inspect LCD display cables for cable damage•Verify external video functionality, and according to result check the following items:•-If external display works then verify/replace LED backlight board-If external display works then verify/replace LCD panel-If external display does not work verify/replace logic board




Logic Board Test Points

Test points, which can be used to verify proper power ow, are accessible on logic board whenLCD panel is removed. All voltages given in Troubleshooting Symptom Charts assume thatcomputer is plugged into a known-good power outlet with a known-good AC cable. Someguidelines for using test points:

Warning: HIGH VOLTAGE:• Use extreme caution when live testing!Do NOT lean over or touch the power supply area during live testing.•Keep your ngers behind nger guards on test probes when measuring.•

Turn dial of voltmeter/multimeter to measure DC (direct current, usually indicated by a solid•horizontal line over dashes). If your voltmeter requires a set voltage range, choose a DCrange that includes the voltage you are measuring.Connect black probe to ground. Connect red probe to test point and verify voltage.•

For more info, see kBase #HT3250: Diagnostics: Using a digital multimeter

Logic Board Test Point Function

Pin 1 Ground

Pin 4 Standby 12V power (permanent power coming from power supplyand present as long as AC cable is connected, even if computer iso); corresponds to LED #1

Pin 6 Backlight Control pulse width modulated signal (from logic boardto LED backlight board, to adjust the backlight level setting

according to user setup)Pin 11 12V Run-Mode power to logic board (coming from power supply,

present as long as system is on or asleep); corresponds to LED #2

Pin 12 Power On Request signal (from logic board to power supply whenpower button is pressed)

Pin 13 Backlight Enable (signal from logic board to Backlight Controllerboard, to enable backlight






Sensor and Fan Connector Locations

Ambient temp sensors and fans connectors locations are shown below. Ensure cables arecorrectly routed and the sensors and fans are properly connected. If a sensor or fan is faulty ornot connected, Apple Hardware Test and Apple Service Diagnostic will generate an error code.




Block Diagram

Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.

SO-DIMM

Antenna

Antenna

AntennaSO-DIMM

Temperature

Sensor

Temperature

Sensor

Fan

MLB

SO-DIMM

Display

AC/DC

Power

Button

Bluetooth

Speakers

Hard DriveOptical Drive

AC Inlet

Temperature

Sensor

Camera

Microphone

Speakers

Backlight

Controller

Fan

Fan

MXM

802.11n

Ambient

Temperature

Sensor

IR Sensor

SD Card

Reader

SO-DIMM



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 252009-11-24

Symptom Charts

Follow steps in the order indicated below. If an action resolves the issue, retest 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 UnitNo power•No fan spin•No startup chime•No image on external display•No hard drive or optical drive•activity

Verify power source.1.

Verify power cable.2.

Listen closely for signs of activity from system3.including: rotating fans, hard drive or optical driveactivity, startup chime, etc.

Deep Dive

Check Result Action Code

Power ON system. Verify if1.there is any indication that thesystem has powered up (fanrotation, hard drive or opticaldrive noise, backlight turns on).

Yes The symptom is poweringup. Go to Won’t Start Up

symptom ow.

No Go to step 2.

Locate diagnostic LEDs in2.

bottom case vents. Plug ACcord into system. Verify ifdiagnostic LED #1 turns ON.You may alternately check forpresence of a 12V DC signalbetween pin 4 and pin 1 oflogic board.

Yes Standby power voltage being

supplied by power supply. Go to step 3.

No Replace power supply.

http://service.info.apple.com/QRS/en/quickreference.pdf

http://service.info.apple.com/QRS/en/quickreference.pdf




Press power button while3.monitoring diagnostic LEDs.Verify if LED #2 turns ON andremain ON after pressingthe power button. You mayalternately check for a power

request signal between pin 12and pin 1 of logic board.

Yes Power supply functioning andlogic board detects supplyvoltages. Go to Won’t StartUp symptom ow.

No Go to step 4.

Disconnect AC cable then4.remove power supply andcarefully inspect connectorsbetween AC inlet and powersupply, then DC connectors andcables between power supplyand logic board, for damage orpoor connections.

Yes Replace damaged part. P16

No Go to step 5.

Inspect power button and5.verify if it is properly connectedto the logic board.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Reconnect power button.

Disconnect power button from6.logic board. Inspect cable andconnector for damage. Verifycontinuity between the twopins of power button when it ispressed.

Yes Power button is functioningcorrectly. Reconnect powerbutton to logic board and

go to step 7.

No Power button faulty. Replacerear housing (which includespower button).

X14

Press power button and Verify7.if system turns ON. You may

alternately check for presenceof a 12V DC signal betweenpin 11 and pin 1 of logic boardwhen power button is pressed.

Yes Power supply functioning. Ifsystem still won’t boot, go

to Won’t Start Up symptomow.

No Replace DC power cable. Go to step 8.

X03

Press power button and verify if8.system turns ON.

Yes Issue solved with replaced DCpower cable.

No Replace power supply. Go to step 9.

P01

Press power button and verify if9.system turns ON.

Yes Issue solved with replacedpower supply.

No Reinstall power supply andreplace logic board.

M01

Note: If No Power symptom persists after all steps have been followed use minimumconguration troubleshooting to proceed. Try disconnecting hard drive, optical drive, AirPort,Bluetooth, and SD card modules to determine if one of them is preventing the power supplyfrom functioning.




Won’t Start Up

Quick Check


Won’t Start UpNo startup chime.•Error tones during startup.•Grey screen with fan noise, or•other noise.Will not progress beyond •Apple logo or spinning gear.

Isolate OS by starting up from original install1. media for this computer, from a same-modelcomputer in Target Disk Mode, or from acompatible known-good OS on an external drive.Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are availablewhen booted from the Install disk.

Reset SMC and PRAM to clear any stored,2.corrupted information.

Start up in Safe Mode by holding shift key down3.during startup to load only required kernelextensions and disable all startup and loginitems. See kBase #HT1564: Mac OS X: What is

Safe Boot, Safe Mode?If system generates error tones there may be an4.issue with the SDRAM. See kBase #HT2341: Intel-based Mac: Power On Self Test RAM error codes

Identifying when in the startup process the5.computer hangs can help isolate the issue. See kBase #HT2674: Intel-based Mac: Startupsequence and error codes, symbols forinformation on the Macintosh startup sequence,and error codes and symbols used.

Deep Dive


Boot computer to Apple1.Hardware Test on the internalhard drive or an inserted InstallDVD by holding down the Dkey at startup. Verify if systemboots up from any of thesevolumes.

Yes Run the extended testsand proceed with results. IfAHT passes or boots with amemory error, go to step 2.

No Go to step 2.

Remove installed SDRAM, and2.test with known-good SDRAM.Verify if computer starts upproperly now.

Yes SDRAM issue. Reinstall oneof user’s SDRAM modulesand retest. Proceed one byone to nd the faulty SDRAMmodule, and replace it.

X02

No Go to step 3.



















Wait 15 seconds after computer3.was powered down anddisconnect AirPort cable fromlogic board. Verify if computerstarts up properly now.

Yes Go to AirPort Card KernelPanic symptom ow.

No Go to step 4.

Disconnect hard drive SATA4.cable and startup from InstallDVD in the optical drive, orfrom an external bootablevolume. Verify if computerstarts up properly now.

Yes Go to Hard Drive NotRecognized symptom ow.

No Go to step 5.

Reconnect hard drive,5.disconnect optical drive cableand retest. Verify if computerstarts up properly now.

Yes Go to Optical Drive NotRecognized symptom ow.

No Go to step 6.

Remove coin battery on back6.of logic board (you will need to

completely remove logic boardto do this), and leave out forapproximately 1 minute. Thenreinstall battery. This will resetlogic board. Verify if computerstarts up properly now.

Yes Issue resolved by logic boardreset. Measure DC voltage on

battery touching battery withred probe, and groundingwith black probe. If voltage is2.7v or less, replace battery.

For multimeter help, seekBase #HT3250: Diagnostics:Using a digital multimeter.

No Replace logic board. M02








Intermittent Shutdown

Quick Check


Intermittent ShutdownPowers o during startup.•Powers o during desktop use.•Computer restarts•spontaneously.Powers o when waking from•sleep.

Make sure that power cord is securely attached1. to the back of computer, and is not hindered by adesk or other furniture.

Plug computer directly into an AC outlet to test if2.a surge protector or UPS is causing issue.

Open System Preferences > Energy Saver >3.Schedule and make sure that a “Shut Down”event is not scheduled.

Isolate OS by starting up from original install4.media for this computer, from a same-modelcomputer in Target Disk Mode, or from acompatible known-good OS on an external drive.Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are availablewhen booted from the Install disk.


Start up in Safe Mode by holding shift key down6.during startup to load only required kernelextensions and disable all startup and loginitems. See kBase #HT1564: Mac OS X: What isSafe Boot, Safe Mode?

Deep DiveCheck Result Action Code

Verify improper shutdown1.by opening the system.loglocated in /var/log. Filter logfor “shutdown cause”. Entriesof value “0” or a negativevalue indicate an impropershutdown. Verify if you ndrecent entries of an impropershutdown in log le.

Yes Determine if user causedimproper shutdown. Useknown-good AC power cordand AC outlet. Go to step 2.

No Revisit Quick Check examplesfor possible software issues.Check if user is runningother automating softwarethat may be shutting down

system. Verify issue and jumpto appropriate symptomow. No repair needed undercurrent symptom ow.









With known-good AC power2.cord and AC outlet, Verify ifsystem continues to restart orshutdown

Yes Go to step 3.

No AC power cord / outlet issue.Issue resolved.

X03

Disconnect hard drive power3.cable from hard drive andstartup the computer fromother bootable media (likeInstall DVD, a same modelcomputer in Target Disk Mode,or a compatible known-goodOS on an external drive). Verifyif system continues to restart orshutdown.

Yes Go to step 4.

No Possible bad software or harddrive. Go to Hard Drive NotRecognized symptom ow.

Inspect and reseat AC inlet4.connection to power supply(the smaller of the 2 cablesconnected to power supply),and DC power cable frompower supply to logic board.Verify if damage is observed onthe cables or connectors.

Yes Replace damaged cable.Retest. Return to step 1 ifproblem continues.

X03

No Go to step 5.

Install known-good power5.supply. Verify if systemcontinues to restart orshutdown.

Yes Reinstall original powersupply. Go to step 6.

No Issue resolved with powersupply replacement.

P02

Replace DC power cable,6.which supplies power to

logic board, hard drive, andLED backlight board. Verify ifsystem continues to restart orshutdown.

Yes Go to step 7.

No Issue resolved with DC powercable replacement.

X03

Replace logic board.7. Verify ifsystem continues to restart orshutdown.

Yes Use Minimum Congurationtroubleshooting to isolatefailed module.

No Issue resolved with logicboard replacement.

M08




Kernel Panic, System Crashes

Quick Check


Kernel Panic, System CrashesKernel Panic on startup or•desktop use.System freeze during use.•System freeze upon wake from•sleep.

Isolate OS by starting up from original install1. media for this computer, from a same modelcomputer in Target Disk Mode, or from acompatible known-good OS on an external drive.Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are availablewhen booted from the Install disk.

Ensure that all software and rmware updates for2.this model have been installed to take advantageof any available bug xes.


Start up in Safe Mode by holding shift key down4.during startup to load only required kernelextensions and disable all startup and loginitems. See kBase #HT1564: Mac OS X: What isSafe Boot, Safe Mode?

Check the panic.log, located /Library/Logs/5.Panicreporter, for information in the back tracethat may give clues about the kernel panic.

For more information, see6. kBase #HT1392: About “You need to restart your computer”(kernel panic) messages.

Deep Dive


Boot the computer to Apple1.Hardware Test on internal harddrive or an inserted Install DVDby holding down the D key atstartup. Verify if system bootsup from any of these volumes.

Yes Run extended tests andproceed with results. If AHTpasses or boots with a kernelpanic, go to step 2.

No Go to step 2.

Remove all peripheral devices2.

including keyboard and mouse.Verify if system starts withoutkernel panic.

Yes Add peripheral devices one

at a time until kernel panicrepeats. Replace devicecausing issue.

No Go to step 3.
















Use known-good SDRAM in the3.system. Verify if system startwithout kernel panic now.

Yes Install user’s SDRAM one byone and test. If kernel panicrepeats, replace aectedSDRAM. Verify if correctSDRAM specication is beingused.

X01

No Go to step 4.

Wait for 20 seconds after4.shutdown and disconnectAirPort cable on logic board.Verify if system starts withoutkernel panic now.

Yes Go to AirPort Card KernelPanic symptom ow.

No Go to step 5.

Disconnect SATA cable from5.hard drive and startup to theInstall DVD in the optical driveor from an external volume.Verify if system starts without

kernel panic now.

Yes Go to Hard Drive NotRecognized symptom ow.

No Go to step 6.

Disconnect camera and6.microphone cables from logicboard. Verify if system startswithout kernel panic now.

Yes Go to Camera Issues orAudio: Microphone symptomow as appropriate.

No Go to step 7.

Disconnect Bluetooth cable7.on logic board. Verify if systemstarts without kernel panicnow.

Yes Go to AirPort/BluetoothIssues symptom ow.

X99

No Go to step 8.

Disconnect SD board on logic8.board. Verify if system startswithout kernel panic now.

Yes Go to SD Card NotRecognized symptom ow.

No Go to step 9.

Disconnect optical drive and9.test. Verify if system startswithout kernel panic now.

Yes Go to Optical Drive NotRecognized symptom ow.

No Replace logic board.




No Video

Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive, speakers, camera, microphone

Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check No Video

No image.•Backlight failure.•

Check brightness setting.1.

For no-video issues, connect an external display2.to Verify if iMac video circuitry is functioning.If image appears on external display go toBacklight Issue/No Backlight symptom ow.

Reset SMC.3.

Deep Dive

Check Result Action CodeVerify boot chime present and1.fans running when systempowered ON. (Reset SMC andclear PRAM if necessary forproper boot up.)

Yes Power ON self test OK. Bootsequence started. Go to step 2.

No Go to Won’t Start Up

symptom ow.

Verify if image is visible on2.built-in LCD panel.

Yes Video present. Verify systemfunctionality and return touser or jump to appropriatetroubleshooting ow.

No Go to step 3.

Connect supported external3.display. Verify if image appearson external display whensystem is booted.

Yes External display detected bysystem. Video circuitry onlogic board functional. Go toBacklight Issue/No Backlight symptom ow.

No Go to step 4.

Pivot enclosure to access4.lower intake vent, and locatediagnostic LEDs on edge of

logic board. Verify if LED #3turns on shortly after systempowers on.

Yes Logic board communicatingwith video card. Go to step 5.

No If LED #3 does not turn ON-If system has a video card,reseat video card and retest,then replace video card andrepeat step 4. If issue persists,replace logic board.

-For a system without videocard, replace logic board.

M03




Locate5. diagnostic LEDs onlogic board. Verify if LED #4turns on shortly after systempowers on.

Yes Logic board communicatingwith LCD panel. Go toBacklight Issue/No Backlight symptom ow.

No Replace LVDS cable.Go to step 6.

Locate6. diagnostic LEDs onthe logic board. Verify if LED #4turns on shortly after systempowers on.

Yes Video controller functionaland communicating with LCDpanel. Go to Backlight Issue/No Backlight symptom ow.

No Video controller unable tocommunicate with LCD panel.Replace LCD panel. Retest.

M03

Corrupted VideoUnlikely cause: power supply, hard drive, optical drive, fans, speakers, camera, microphone

Quick Check


Corrupted Video Text and graphics appear fuzzy•Image corrupted•

Set System Preferences > Displays to native1.resolution of LCD. Non-native resolutions areunable to produce optimal clarity.

Clean outside surface of glass panel.2.

Make sure all relevant software updates have3.been applied. Graphics driver updates may beincluded with software updates.

Boot from install DVD or another known-good4.volume to determine whether a potentialsoftware/driver issue exists.

When issue occurs, take a screenshot of the5.display (Command-Shift-3). View screenshot leon a known-good computer. If image corruptioncan be seen in the screenshot then issue is withthe video drivers, software, or video/logic board. If

issue cannot be seen in the screenshot then LCDpanel and LVDS cable should be tested further.




Deep Dive


Boot from Install DVD and1.Verify if issue is still visible.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Issue likely caused bysoftware or driver issue.

Troubleshoot for softwareissues. Make sure all softwareupdates have been installed.

Verify if issue is visible on an2.external display.

Yes Issue is NOT caused byinternal LCD display. Go to step 3.

No Go to step 6.

For systems without a separate3.video card, go to step 4. If avideo card is present, remove

video card, inspect connectorfor damage or corrosion.Reinstall video card and retest.Verify if issue still occurs.

Yes Replace video card. Go to step 4.

M04

No Issue resolved by reseatingvideo card.

Verify if video corruption issue4.is still present.

Yes Replace logic board. If a videocard was replaced, reinstallthe user’s original video card.Go to step 5.

M04

No Issue resolved withreplacement video card.

Verify if video corruption issue5.

is still present with replacementlogic board installed.

Yes Return to step 1 and retest. X04

No Issue resolved withreplacement logic board.

M04

Inspect glass panel. Verify if6.issue is caused by condensationor contaminants on inside/outside surface of glass panel,or on surface of LCD panel.

Yes Clean glass and/or LCD usingprocedures in Glass Paneltake-apart chapter.

Identify possible sourcesof contamination (nearbycigarette/cooking smoke,heavy airborne dust, etc.)to prevent recurrence.

Condensation shoulddissipate after computer hasbeen running a few hours.

No Go to step 7.




Disconnect LVDS cable7.between LCD display and logicboard, and verify if there isdamage to cable or connectors.Repeat with vertical sync cableconnected between LCD panel

and LED backlight board.

Yes Replace LVDS cable or anyother damaged part/module.

X03

No Reinstall LVDS cable andvertical sync cable. Go to step 8.

Verify if issue is still visible after8.reinstalling/replacing LVDScable and vertical sync cable.

Yes Replace LVDS cable and LCDpanel. Go to step 9.

L04

No Issue resolved with reseatingcables.

Verify if issue is still present9.with replacement LCD panelinstalled.

Yes Return to step 1 and retest.

No Issue resolved withreplacement of LCD panel.

L04




Burnt Smell/Odor

Unlikely cause: speakers, microphone, rear housing

Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Burnt Smell/Odor

Burning smell•Unusual odor•

Verify that computer is the source of the odor.1.

If system is new, see2. kBase #TA22044: NewEquipment: Odors May Be Present Short-Term.

Disconnect all third-party devices and check to3.see if any external device is the source of odor.

Inspect air intake and air outlets for obstructions.4. To prevent overheating make sure thereis sucient clearance to allow air to owunobstructed into and out of the system.

Verify if system is functional.5.

Deep Dive


Verify if source of the odor1.can be identied by visuallyinspecting each moduleand its associated cables forsigns of burned or damagedcomponents, smoke residue,

burned traces, or melted ordamaged wiring,

Yes Replace aected module(s).Go to step 2

P08

No Unable to locate source ofodor. Go to step 3.

Disconnect all third-party2.devices and cables. Power ONsystem and verify if smoke orstrong odor returns.

Yes Power down systemimmediately. Go to step 3.

No System functions correctly.Verify system functionalitywith third-party devices andcables and return systemto user if problem has beenresolved. Consult third-partycompanies as needed for

issues with those products.

http://support.apple.com/kb/TA22044







Verify if source of odor can be3.located using your nose.

Yes Replace aected module(s)and retest system.

P08

No Contact Apple for assistanceif you feel that there is apossible safety issue withcomputer that has not beenresolved in previous steps.

Uncategorized Symptoms

Quick Check



Unable to locate appropriate• symptom code.

Make sure system is plugged into a known-good1.

outlet.Listen for boot chime, fan, optical drive, or hard2.drive noise which indicates system is poweringup. If noise is heard, go to Won’t Start Up

symptom ow. If no noise is heard go toNo Power, Dead Unit symptom ow.

Attempt to boot from Install DVD to isolate3.possible software issues.

Deep Dive

Check Result Action CodeVerify if existing symptom code1.applies to issue reported byuser.

Yes Jump to appropriatesymptom code ow.

No Document reported failureand send feedback [email protected]

stating that a suitablesymptom code wasn’t found.Provide as much detail aspossible.

N99







iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Display 402009-11-24

Shine bright (low heat)5.ashlight onto front of LCD.With computer powered ONverify if a faint image is visible.

Yes LCD panel functional butbacklight is missing ordim. Remove LCD paneland inspect and reseat thefollowing cable connections:

-Output cable between lower

end of LED backlight boardand lower end of LCD panel.

-Vertical sync cable betweenupper end of LED backlightboard and LCD panel.

-DC power cable betweenupper right of LED backlightboard and power supply.

Replace any damaged cable.Reinstall LCD panel and go tostep 6.

X03

No No image or backlight.Go to step 7.

Power ON system. Verify if6.image is now visible on LCDpanel with correct backlightlevel.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Replace LED backlight board.Retest. If issue persists, go tostep 7.

M04

Inspect and reseat7. LVDS cablebetween LCD panel and logicboard. Power ON system. Verifyif image is visible on built-inLCD display.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Replace LVDS cable.

If issue persists, replace LCDpanel. Retest.

X03

L03




Noise / Unstable Flickering

Unlikely cause: camera, microphone

Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Noise / Unstable Flickering

Unstable image•Flickering image•Humming noise from display•High frequency noise from•display

Verify that intake vent on bottom of computer is1.not obstructed.

Inspect system for third party software that is2.being used to set fan speeds to a higher thannormal RPM. Some users may install this softwareto monitor and control internal temperatures,potentially causing higher fan speeds to generatehigher than expected noise levels.


Verify if user issue is due to1.ickering, or to an unstablevideo image on the LCD.

Yes Suspected ickering issue, goto step 2

No For audible noise issues go tostep 8. All other issues go toappropriate symptom ow.

Connect a supported external2.display to the mini DisplayPorton rear of computer. Verify

if issue occurs with externaldisplay.

Yes Suspect issue with videocircuitry. Go to CorruptedVideo symptom ow.

No Video circuitry OK.Go to step 3.

Disconnect and carefully3.inspect all four cables onback of LCD panel for signs ofdamage, corrosion, or pinchedwires.

Yes Replace damaged cable(s)where needed, otherwisereattach connectors. Retest.

X03

No Go to step 4.

Power ON computer and verify4.if issue still occurs.

Yes If connections are secure anddisplay is still ickering, go tostep 5.

No Issue resolved.




Shine bright (low heat)5.ashlight into front of LCD.Verify if an image is beingdisplayed when ickering issueis occurring.

Yes Image present but backlightis ickering. Replace verticalsync cable (between LCDpanel and upper end of LEDbacklight board) and retest.

If issue persists, replace LED

backlight board.

X03

M04

No Replace LVDS cable betweenLCD panel and logic board,and retest.

X03

Verify if noise varies when6.adjusting brightness level upand down.

Yes Noise seems to be generatedby LCD panel or backlightcircuitry. Go to step 7.

No Noise is from another source.Go to Noise/Hum/Vibration

symptom ow.

Verify if noise can be heard7.when computer is set up withuser seated in normal userposition. Adjusting brightnesslevel up and down may benecessary to recreate issue.

Yes Replace LED backlight board.Go to step 8.

M04

No Noises that are not audiblefrom the normal user positionare considered acceptable.

Verify if noise is still present.8. Yes Replace LCD panel. I f noisestill present, go to Noise/Hum/Vibration symptomow.

L06

No Issue resolved.




LCD Image Issues

Unlikely cause: power supply, hard drive, optical drive, fans, speakers, camera, microphone

Quick Check

Symptom Quick Check LCD Issues

Incorrect/missing colors•Distorted/blurred image•Pixel anomalies•Vertical/horizontal lines•Non-uniform brightness•

Allow display to reach normal operating1.temperature for about 15 minutes beforeevaluating front-of-screen performance.

Check display preferences for use of custom2.display prole.

Check brightness setting.3.

Clean glass panel while checking for dust/debris.4.

Deep Dive: GeneralCheck Result Action Code

Verify if issue is incorrect/1.missing colors.

Yes Go to incorrect/missingcolors.

No Go to step 2.

Verify if issue is distorted/2.blurred image.

Yes Go to distorted/blurredimage.

No Go to step 3.

Verify if issue is bright or dark3. pixel anomalies. Yes Go to pixel anomalies.No Go to step 4.

Verify if issue is vertical or4.horizontal lines.

Yes Go to vertical/horizontallines.

No Go to step 5.

Verify if issue is non-uniform5.brightness.

Yes Go to non-uniformbrightness.

No LCD functioning OK. Return toappropriate symptom ow if

user issue is still present.




Incorrect/Missing Colors


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Incorrect/Missing Colors

Wrong color display•Color/contrast issues•

Allow display to reach normal operating1.temperature for about 15 minutes beforeevaluating front-of-screen performance.

Verify if System Preferences > Display settings are2.congured to use default display prole.

Verify System Preferences > Universal Access >3.Display “Enhance contrast”, “Use grayscale”, and“Black on White/White on Black” settings are setto defaults.

Deep Dive


Verify computer has been1.warmed up for about 15minutes to stabilize backlightbefore continuing.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Warm up computer for about15 minutes. Go to step 2.

Verify if all four cables on back2.of LCD panel are secure at bothends.

Yes Go to step 3.

No Reseat connections, replacedamaged cable(s) if needed.Retest.

L14

Go to System Preferences >3.Desktop & Screen Saver >Desktop and set color to SolidGray Light. Verify if incorrect/missing color issue aectsentire display.

Yes Suspect poor videoconnection. Replace LVDScable between LCD panel andlogic board.

L14

No Go to step 4.

Set up computer side-by-side4.with a known-good, same-model computer showingsame image. Verify if issue is

noticeably worse on displaybeing tested.

Yes Replace LCD panel. L02

No Small variations in coloruniformity across display are

normal and do not warrantreplacement of LCD.




Distorted/Blurred Image


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Distorted/Blurred Image

Text and graphics appear fuzzy•Image corrupted•

Set System Preferences > Displays to native1.resolution of LCD. Non-native resolutions areunable to produce optimal clarity.

Clean outside of glass panel.2.

Boot from install DVD to determine if a potential3.software issue exists.

Deep Dive

Check Result Action CodeBoot from Install DVD and1.verify if issue is still visible.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Issue likely caused bysoftware or driver issue.

Troubleshoot for softwareissues. Make sure all softwareupdates have been installed.

Verify if issue is visible on an2.external display attached tomini DisplayPort.

Yes Issue NOT caused by internalLCD panel. Go to step 3.

No Go to step 6.

For systems without video card,3.go to step 4. If a video card ispresent, remove video card,inspect connector for damageor corrosion then reinstall.Verify if issue still occurs.

Yes Replace video card.Go to step 4.

M24

No Issue likely caused by poorvideo card connection.

Verify if distorted/blurred4.image issue is still present.

Yes Replace logic board. Forsystems with a video card,reinstall the user’s originalvideo card. Go to step 5.

M04

No Issue resolved.

Verify if issue is still present5.with replacement logic boardinstalled.


No Issue resolved.




Inspect glass panel. Verify if6.issue is caused by condensationor contaminants on insidesurface of glass panel.


Identify possible sourcesof contamination (nearbycigarette/cooking smoke,

heavy airborne dust, etc.)to prevent recurrence.Condensation shoulddissipate after computer hasbeen running a few hours.

No Go to step 7.

Remove LVDS cable between7.LCD panel and logic board,and verify if there is damage tocable or connectors.

Yes Replace LVDS cable. X03

No Reinstall LVDS cable.Go to step 8.

Verify if issue is still visible after8. reinstalling LVDS cable. Yes Replace LCD panel.Go to step 9. L04

No Issue resolved.

Verify if issue is still present9.with replacement LCD panelinstalled.


No Issue resolved.




Pixel Anomalies

Unlikely cause: logic board, power supply, hard drive, optical drive, fans, speakers, camera,microphone

Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check

Pixel AnomaliesDark dot anomalies•Bright dot anomalies•Debris on inside surface of•glass panelDebris on surface of LCD panel•

Clean outside surface of glass panel.1.

See2. kBase #HT1721: About LCD display pixelanomalies.

Deep Dive


Determine if “defects” are dust/1.debris on surface of glass panelor LCD.


No Go to step 2.

Determine if bright pixel2.defects exceed acceptablenumber. See kBase #HT1721:About LCD display pixelanomalies.


No LCD panel meets bright pixeldefect specications.Go to step 3.

Determine if dark pixel defects3.exceed acceptable number. See kBase #HT1721: About LCDdisplay pixel anomalies.


No LCD panel meets dark pixeldefect specications.Go to step 4.

Determine if combination4.of bright/dark pixel defectsexceed acceptable number. SeekBase #HT1721: About LCDdisplay pixel anomalies.


No Explain to user that LCDpanel is operating withinspecications for pixel defects.Do NOT replace LCD panel.
























Isolate with only one memory6.module installed, then with theother one. Test with known-good memory. Verify if issueonly happens with specicRAM module(s).

Yes Replace aected RAM

module.X02

No Go to step 7.

Isolate with one known-good7.memory module installed inone memory slot. Repeat bytesting in other memory slotsVerify if issue only happenswith specic memory slot oflogic board.

Yes Replace logic board andretest.

M07

No Go to step 8.

Remove LVDS cable between8.LCD panel and logic board andverify if there is damage tocable or connectors.

Yes Replace LVDS cable.Go to step 9.

X04

No Reinstall LVDS cable.Go to step 9.

Verify if issue is still present9.after reinstalling LVDS cable.

Yes Replace logic board. If videocard was present, reinstalloriginal video card.Go to step 10.

M04

No Issue resolved.

Verify if issue is still present10.with replacement logic boardinstalled.

Yes Go to step 11.

No Issue resolved.

Reinstall original logic board11.and verify if issue is still presentwith original logic boardreinstalled.


No Issue resolved. If a video cardwas present, reinstall originalvideo card.




Non-Uniform Brightness


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Non-Uniform Brightness

Brightness not uniform•Color not-uniform•

Verify System Preferences > Displays > Brightness1.slider is set above minimum.

Allow 15 minutes for backlight to reach normal2.operating temperature and output beforeevaluating display.

Visually inspect glass panel for presence of dust,3.cigarette smoke, or other contaminants. Cleanglass panel if needed.


Determine if brightness1.uniformity issue is visible afterdisplay has warmed up forabout 15 minutes.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Display backlight can takeseveral minutes to stabilize.Retest. If issue still not visiblereturn computer to user.

Look at user-provided2.examples showing brightnessuniformity issue. Determine if

variation in uniformity appearsexcessive when compared toanother same-model computer.

Yes Go to step 3.

No Demonstrate to user that LCDperforms similarly to anothercomputer of the same model.

Remove glass panel and3.loosen screws securing LCDpanel. Determine if brightnessuniformity improves.

Yes Inspect for mechanicalinterference with screwsor cables making contactwith back of LCD. Reseatcomponents & cables, retest.

No Go to step 4.

Remove LCD panel, then4.

inspect and reseat backlightcables. Determine if brightnessuniformity improves.

Yes One or more backlight cables

were loose.No Replace LCD panel. L07




Cosmetic Defects


Cosmetic Defects to LCDCracked LCD•Scratched LCD polarizer•Scorched or melted LCD•LCD impact damage•Foreign material on LCD or•back side of glass panel.

Determine if damage was caused by user1.environment, accidental damage, or abuse. Ifapplicable, inform user that Apple does notwarrant damage caused by accident, abuse,misuse, ood, re, earthquake, or other externalcauses. For more information, refer to:http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty

For dark and bright pixel anomalies see2.Pixel Anomalies symptom ow.


Quick Check


Uncategorized SymptomsUnable to locate appropriate•symptom code.

Make sure brightness level is set above minimum.1.

Clean glass panel to make sure external2.contaminants are removed prior to evaluatingdisplay performance.

Allow LCD display to warm up approximately3.15 minutes before evaluating display color and

brightness uniformity performance.

Deep Dive


Verify if existing symptom code1.applies to issue reported byuser.




N99

http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty







iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 522009-11-24

Mass Storage

Hard Drive Not Recognized

Unlikely cause: LCD panel, power supply, fans, speakers, camera, microphone

Quick Check


Drive Not RecognizedDrive No Boot

Flashing Question Mark •Boots to Grey Screen•Boots to Blue Screen•Boots to Prohibitory Symbol•

(Review kBase #HT2674: Intel-based Mac: Startup sequenceand error codes, symbols)

Use a known-good mouse. A stuck mouse button1.will not allow boot.

Boot from Install DVD. Use Disk Utility to verify2.S.M.A.R.T. status of hard drive.

Use Disk Utility to repair disk.3.

Verify that user’s data is backed up and that user4. authorizes erasing disk and reinstalling software.

Use Target Disk Mode to mount user’s hard drive5.on a known-good computer. Use Disk Utility onhost computer for Quick Checks 2 through 4.

Deep Dive


Boot from Install DVD and run1.

Disk Utility. Verify if user’s harddrive is available for Disk Utilityto repair.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Go to step 5.

Run Disk Utility’s “Repair2.Disk” function and verify if itcompletes successfully.

Yes Go to step 3.

No Go to step 4.

Reboot computer. Verify if3.system boots successfully andthat Disk Utility “Verify” functionreports no errors.

Yes Data error. Issue resolved. H07

No Go to step 4.

With user’s permission, erase4.

hard drive and reinstall MacOS. Verify if installation processcompletes.

Yes Go to step 8.

No Go to step 5.

Inspect hard drive SATA and5.power cables and connectorsfor bent pins, or other damageto the cable.

Yes Replace damaged SATA cableor DC power cable. Go to step 8.

X03

No Go to step 6.











Reseat hard drive SATA cable6.at logic board and hard driveconnections, and verify ifcomputer starts up.

Yes Go to step 8.

No Replace SATA cable. Go to step 8.

X03

Test with known-good7.bootable hard drive. Verify ifsystem boots successfully andthat Disk Utility “Verify” functionreports no errors.

Yes Install user ’s hard drive. Go to step 9.

No SATA cable veried orreplaced and known-goodhard drive installed. Replacelogic board. Go to step 1.


Yes Issue resolved. Return systemto user.

No Go to step 7.

Reboot computer. Verify if9.system boots successfully and

that Disk Utility “Verify” functionreports no errors.

Yes Issue resolved.

No User ’s hard drive appears tobe defective. Go to step 10.

Replace hard drive. Boot from10.system-specic Install DVDand reinstall Mac OS X withdrive format option. Verify ifdrive is formatted correctly(GUID partition table) and thatsoftware restore was successful.

Yes Issue resolved by replacinghard drive.

H01

No SATA cable veried/replacedand new hard drive installed,Check with known-goodrestore DVD. If restore failurestill happens, go to step 11.

If restore is unsuccessful,11.startup a known-good systemin Target Disk Mode andconnect it to the user’s systemwith a FireWire cable. Onceset up, insert the iMac InstallDisc in its optical drive. Startupuser’s system while holdingOption key, select and bootfrom the Install Disc DVDand restore system software.Verify if software restore wassuccessful.

Yes Restore failure seems to bedue to internal optical driveor media issue. Go to OpticalDrive Read/Write Error

symptom ow.

No Restore failure seems to bedue to internal SATA busissue. Replace logic board.

M19




Hard Drive Read/Write Errors


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Drive Read/Write ErrorDrive Bad Sector/DefectiveDrive Formatting Issues

Cannot save documents•Read/write error message•Hang when accessing or saving•data

Boot from Install DVD. Use Disk Utility to verify1.S.M.A.R.T. status of hard drive.

Use Disk Utility to repair disk.2.

Verify that user’s data is backed up and that user3.authorizes erasing disk and reinstalling software.

Use Target Disk Mode to mount user’s hard drive4.on a known-good computer. Use Disk Utility onhost computer for Quick Checks 2 through 3.

Deep Dive


Run Disk Utility ‘Repair Disk’1.function and verify if itcompletes successfully.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Go to step 3.


Yes Data error. Issue resolved. H07

No Go to step 3.

With user’s permission, erase3. hard drive and reinstall MacOS. Verify if installation processcompletes.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Go to step 4.

Inspect hard drive SATA, power4.cables and connectors for bentpins, or other damage to thecable.

Yes Replace damaged cable. Go to step 6.

H04

No Go to step 5.

Reseat SATA cable on hard5.drive and logic board. Verify ifcomputer starts up.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Replace hard drive data cable. Go to step 6.

H04

Reboot computer. Verify if6.system boots successfully andDisk Utility “Verify” functionreports no errors.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Go to step 7.




Test with known-good hard7.drive. Verify if system bootssuccessfully and Disk Utility“Verify” function reports noerrors.

Yes Reinstall user’s hard drive, goto step 8.

No SATA cable veried orreplaced and known-goodhard drive installed. Replacelogic board.


Yes Issue resolved.

No User ’s hard drive appears tobe defective. Go to step 9.

Replace user’s hard drive. Verify9.if drive formats correctly with aGUID partition map and installsMac OS without errors.

Yes Issue resolved by replacinguser’s hard drive.

H03

No SATA cable veried orreplaced and new hard drivedid not resolve issue. Replacelogic board.

M19

Hard Drive Noisy

Unlikely cause: LCD panel, logic board, power supply, speakers, camera, microphone

Quick Check


Hard Drive Noisy

Noise during start up•Noise during operation•Noise when drive is copying or•saving data

Boot from Install DVD. Use Disk Utility to verify1.

S.M.A.R.T. status of hard drive.Use Disk Utility to repair disk.2.

Determine if noise is comparable to another3.machine of the same model.

Deep Dive


Boot from the Install DVD and1.run Disk Utility. Verify if user

hard drive is available for DiskUtility to repair.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Go to Hard Drive NotRecognized symptom ow.

Run Disk Utility ‘Repair Disk’2.function and verify if itcompletes successfully.

Yes Go to step 3.

No Go to step 4.




Restart the computer. Verify if3.the noise is still present.

Yes Go to step 4.

No Issue resolved. Return systemto user.

H06

With user’s permission, erase4.hard drive and reinstall Mac

OS. Verify if installation processcompletes.

Yes Go to step 3.

No Replace hard drive. Go to step 5.

With replacement hard drive5.installed, reboot computer.Verify if noise is still present.

Yes Replacement hard drive didnot resolve issue. Go to step 6.

No Issue resolved by replacinghard drive.

H06

With hard drive removed verify6.if rubber vibration isolationgrommets are properlyinstalled in hard drive bracket

(attached to hard drive) andto mechanism in rear housing(where hard drive pins insert).

Yes Go to step 8.

No If grommets are missing ordamaged, replace hard drive

bracket or mechanism asappropriate. Go to step 7.

Reboot computer. Verify if noise7.is still present.

Yes Go to step 8.

No Issue resolved. Returncomputer to user.

H06

Disconnect hard drive SATA and8.power connections then bootfrom the Install DVD. Verify ifnoise is caused by fans.

Yes Go to Fan Failures/ThermalIssues symptom ow.

No Go to step 9.

Disconnect hard drive and9. optical drive then boot from anexternal volume. Verify if noisedisappears when optical drivehas been disconnected.

Yes Possible optical drive ormedia issue. Go to OpticalDrive Noisy symptom ow.

No Noise issue still present, butdoes not appear to be causedby hard drive. Go to Noise/Hum/Vibration symptomow.




Optical Drive Not Recognized


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Drive Not Recognized/Mount

Discs inject and eject, but do•not appear in Finder

Use System Proler Serial-ATA section to see if1.optical drive appears.

System Proler Serial-ATA section will show any2.media inserted.

Check Finder Preferences and make sure “CD’s,3.DVD’s and iPods” is checked under “Show theseitems on the desktop” in the General section.

Deep Dive


Verify if optical drive is listed1.in Serial-ATA section of SystemProler.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Go to step 3.

Test both CD and DVD media.2.Verify if optical drive can readboth CD and DVD media.

Yes No issue, or possibleintermittent issue. Gathermore information from user.

No If both types of media fail,check that Finder Preferencesare set to “show CD’s andDVD’s”, then go to step 3.

If only one type of media fails,drive has a laser pickup issue.Replace optical drive.

J03

Connect known-good optical3.drive to SATA cable. Verify ifboth CD and DVD media areread reliably.

Yes SATA cable and port on logicboard good. Go to step 5.

No Go to step 4.

Reseat SATA cable connections4.at optical drive and logic board

(cable connects to back of logicboard). Verify if both CD andDVD media are read reliably.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Replace SATA cable and test.

If issue persists, replace logicboard.

Go to step 6.

X03

M19




Connect original optical drive5.to known-good SATA cable.Verify if both CD and DVDmedia are read reliably.

Yes SATA cable issue. ReplaceSATA cable. Go to step 6.

X03

No Replace optical drive. J03

Test read compatible known-6.good CD and DVD media(Install DVD). Verify if media isrecognized and reads reliably.

Yes Issue resolved.


Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Eject Media


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Drive Won’t Accept MediaDrive Won’t Eject Media

Cannot insert a disc into drive•Cannot eject a disc from drive•

Use System Proler Serial-ATA section to see if1.optical drive appears. If not, go to Optical DriveNot Recognized symptom ow.

Restart computer and hold down mouse button2.or keyboard eject key to cycle optical drive.

Inspect optical drive slot for obstructions3.

Deep Dive

Check Result Action CodeVerify if optical drive is listed in1.System Proler device tree forSerial-ATA devices.

Yes Optical drive communicatingwith logic board. Go to step 5.

No Go to step 2.

Verify SATA cable connections2.between optical drive and logicboard. Visually inspect cablesand connectors for any debris,damage or bent pins. Verify ifoptical drive is listed in SystemProler device tree.

Yes Optical drive communicatingwith logic board. Go to step 5.

No Replace damaged cablesand retest. If connections aregood and no visible cabledamage, go to step 3.

X03

Connect known-good optical3.drive to SATA cable. Verify ifknown-good optical drive islisted in the System Prolerdevice tree.

Yes Go to step 4.

No Suspect bad SATA cable. Go to step 7.




With known-good optical drive4.installed, test for media inject/eject. Verify if drive accepts andejects known-good media.

Yes Known-good optical driveresolved inject/eject issue.Replace optical drive.

J03

No Go to step 7.

Inspect optical drive slot during5.

disc insert/eject. Verify if discscan be inserted easily.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Verify correct optical drivebezel alignment withenclosure. Reseat optical drivethen retest. If issue persists,replace optical drive.

J03

With known-good optical6.media (Install DVD), test formedia inject/eject. Verifyif drive accepts and ejectsknown-good media.

Yes Media issue. No repairnecessary. Suggest userinvestigate use of dierentmedia.

No Go to step 3.

Replace SATA cable then test7.for media inject/eject. Verify ifdrive injects and ejects known-good media.

Yes SATA cable resolved issue.Return system to user.

X03

No SATA cable veried orreplaced, and optical driveveried or replaced. Replacelogic board and retest.

M19

Optical Drive Read/Write Error


Quick Check


Drive Read/Write Data ErrorErrors when writing optical•media.Errors when reading optical•media.Hang when accessing or•preparing to write data.

Test optical media in a known-good optical drive1.in the same type of computer to rule out mediaissue.

Check with known-good discs like the Install DVD2.that came with the computer.

For write issues, check with known-good media3.that performs well in a known-good optical drivein the same type of computer.




Deep Dive


Verify if media is free to spin1.without optical drive scrapingedge or surface of media.

Yes Go to step 2.


Test both CD and DVD media.2.Verify if drive can read both CDand DVD media.

Yes Go to step 6.

No If both types of media fail,check that Finder Preferencesare set to “show CD’s andDVD’s”, then go to step 3.


J03

Connect known-good optical3.drive to SATA cable. Verify ifboth CD and DVD media areread reliably.


No Go to step 4.

Reseat SATA cable connections4.at optical drive and logic board(cable connects to back of logicboard). Verify if both CD andDVD media are read reliably.

Yes Go to step 6.



Go to step 6.

X03

M19

Connect original optical drive5.to known-good SATA cable.Verify if both CD and DVD

media are read reliably.


X03


Test write data to compatible6.CD and DVD media. Verify ifburned media is recognizedand read reliably.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Run ODD sensor and ODD fantests in ASD:

If errors found checkODD sensor and ODD fanconnections to logic board(read/write errors may be dueto drive being too hot).

If no errors are found while

running diagnostics, replaceoptical drive.

J03




Optical Drive Not Performing to Specications


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Optical Drive Not Performing toSpecications

Read or write speeds slower•than expected

Test optical media in another computer of the1.same type to rule out media issue.

For write issues, check with known-good media2.that performs well in another computer and driveof the same type.

Deep Dive


Test both CD and DVD media.1. Verify if optical drive can readboth CD and DVD media.

Yes Go to step 5.No If both types of media fail,

check that Finder Preferencesare set to “show CD’s andDVD’s”, then go to step 2.


J03

Connect known-good optical2.drive to SATA cable. Verify ifboth CD and DVD media are

read reliably.


No Go to step 3.

Reseat SATA cable connections3.at optical drive and logic board(cable connects to back of logicboard). Verify if both CD andDVD media are read reliably.

Yes Go to step 5.



Go to step 5.

X03

M19

Connect original optical drive4.to known-good SATA cable.Verify if both CD and DVD

media are read reliably.


X03

No Replace optical drive. J03 Test write data to compatible5.CD and DVD media. Verify ifburned media is recognizedand read reliably.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Go to step 6.




Media that is out of balance6.may not perform well at higherspeeds even though higherspeeds may be supportedby the optical drive. Verify ifslowing requested burn speed

allows discs to be writtenreliably.

Yes Media issue. No repairnecessary.

No Go to step 7.

Test write data to compatible7.CD and DVD media. Verifyburned media is recognizedand reads reliably.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Run ODD sensor and ODD fantests in ASD:

If errors found checkODD sensor and ODD fanconnections to logic board(read/write errors may be dueto drive being too hot).

If no errors are found whilerunning diagnostics, replaceoptical drive.

J03

Optical Drive Noisy


Quick Check


Optical Drive Noisy (J04)Noise during boot•Noise during operation•Noise when drive is copying or•writing data

Test optical media in another computer of the1.same type to rule out media issue.

Check with known-good discs like the Install DVD2.that came with the computer.

Verify if noise occurs without media in optical3.drive. If so, verify if noise made by hard drive orfans.

Deep Dive


Test optical drive with dierent1.source of media. Does the noiseissue remain?

Yes Go to step 2.

No Issue due to unbalancedmedia. Recommend usingdierent media.




Reseat optical drive in2.enclosure. Does noise issueremain?

Yes Go to step 3.

No Issue resolved by reseatingdrive in enclosure.

Install known-good optical3.drive in enclosure. Does noise

issue remain?

Yes Go to step 4.


Compare system with similar4.model for optical drive noise inoperation and verify that noiselevel is similar.

Yes Noise level of opticaldrive appears to be withinspecication. Return systemto user.

No Check for other causes ofnoise in the system.

SD Card Will Not Insert Into SlotUnlikely cause: LCD panel, logic board, optical drive, hard drive

Quick Check

Symptom Quick Check

SD Card will not insert into slotSD Memory Card does not fully•seat into slotCard slot does not align with•

enclosure.

The SD card must be a 32 mm by 24 mm by 2.11.mm. You can also use thinner cards, such as MultiMedia Cards (MMC).

Clear any obstruction in SD card slot.2.

Deep Dive


Verify if known-good SD card1.ts in slot.

Yes Ask user to replace defectiveor out-of-spec SD card.

No Loosen the SD board screws,then insert known-good SDcard again. Go to step 2.

Verify if known-good SD card2.now ts in slot.

Yes Tighten SD board screws. Go to step 3.

No Replace SD board and retest. M17




Verify if SD card now ejects3.and inserts without issue.

Yes Issue resolved by SD boardalignment.

No Replace SD board. M17

SD Card Not Recognized

Unlikely cause: LCD panel, logic board, optical drive, hard drive

Quick Check

Symptom Quick Check

SD Card Not RecognizedCard does not show up on•desktop or in System Proler

Insert user’s SD card into a known-good system1.and verify that it functions properly. If cardcannot be read, contact card manufacturer for

support options.Verify SD card slot with known-good SD card.2.

Check correct drivers are installed for user’s SD3.card type. Standard SD cards are supported byMac OS X, but others may require specic driversoftware to be used.

Deep Dive


Verify if SD card inserts1.correctly in SD slot.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Go to SD Card Will Not Insert Into Slot symptom ow.

Unlock and insert user’s SD2.card and verify it shows up ondesktop or in System Proler.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Go to step 3.

Insert a known-good unlocked3.SD card and verify if read/writecapabilities are working.

Yes User’s SD card not functioningproperly. Contact cardmanufacturer for support.

No Go to step 4.




Run System Proler and verify4.if SD card reader is now listedin USB devices.

Yes Go to step 5.

No Reseat SD cable at SD boardand logic board

If issue persists, replace

SD cable.


SD board.


logic board.

M17M17M17

Verify if a known-good5.unlocked SD card can now becorrectly read and written.

Yes Go to step 6.


Lock the user’s SD card and6.verify if it can’t be written.

Yes Issue resolved.






No Document reported failureand send feedback to

[email protected] stating that a suitablesymptom code wasn’t found.Provide as much detail aspossible.

N99





iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 662009-11-24

Communications

AirPort/Bluetooth Issues

Quick Check


AirPort/Bluetooth IssuesUnable to join networks or pair•devicesAirPort card not available•Intermittent device or•connection dropoutsLimited wireless range•

Verify that AirPort or Bluetooth is turned ON, and1.for AirPort issues make sure that a network isselected.

For AirPort, check if the wireless access point2.requires special connection and encryptionprotocols.

Check for nearby sources of interference such3.as microwave ovens or cordless phones. SeekBase #HT1365: AirPort: Potential source ofinterference.

Check the number of users trying to use AirPort4.in the area for possible network congestion(available bandwidth).

Isolate potential OS issues by starting up5.from original Install media for the computer, asame-model computer in Target Disk Mode, orcompatible known-good OS on an external drive.Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are availablewhen booted from Install disc.

Deep Dive


Open System Proler. AirPort1.is listed under Network, whileBluetooth is listed under USB.Verify if both AirPort andBluetooth cards are recognized.

Yes Install all software updatesfor AirPort/Bluetooth andre-test. If issue persists aftersoftware update, go to step 4for AirPort, or go to step 6 forBluetooth.

No Go to step 2 for AirPort.Go to step 6 for Bluetooth. M11

Reseat both AirPort cable2.connection on logic board andon AirPort card carrier ends.Verify if AirPort card is nowlisted in System Proler.

Yes Issue resolved by reaseatingAirPort cable.

No Replace AirPort cable and re-test. Go to step 3.








After cable has been replaced,3.verify if AirPort card is nowlisted in System Proler.

Yes Issue resolved by replacingAirPort cable.

X03

No Replace AirPort card carrierboard and re-test. If issuepersists (card not seen onbus), replace AirPort card.

M11

Enable AirPort and verify if4.known local AirPort networksare available, or create acomputer-to-computernetwork with anotherMacintosh computer usingAirPort. See http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?path=AirPort/5.0/en/ap2110.html. Verify if youconnect successfully.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Go to step 5.

Check and reseat the two5.antennas to the AirPort card.Verify if you can connect toknown AirPort network.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Replace AirPort card. If issuepersists, replace AirPortantenna(s). If damagedantenna is the one embeddedin rear housing behind Applelogo, replace rear housing.

N04

Verify that computer and6.Bluetooth device are both indiscoverable mode. Verify ifyou can now successfully and

reliably pair the device.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Replace Bluetooth antenna.Go to step 7.

M11

Re-test with new Bluetooth7.antenna and verify if Bluetoothissues are resolved.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Replace Bluetooth card. M11

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?path=AirPort/5.0/en/ap2110.html











AirPort Card Kernel Panic

Quick Check


AirPort Card Kernel PanicKernel Panic on startup•Kernel Panic or freezing while•attempting to connect to WiFinetworksKernel Panic while transferring•data on WiFi networks

Isolate OS by starting up from original Install1. media for this computer, a same-model computerin Target Disk Mode, or compatible known-goodOS on an external drive. AirPort and Bluetoothservices are available when booted from theInstall disk.

Ensure that all software and rmware updates for2.the computer and AirPort been installed.

Deep Dive

Check Result Action CodeDisconnect AirPort card cable1.end from logic board. Verify ifcomputer starts now withoutkernel panic.

Yes Reseat AirPort card cable andretest. If problem continuesreplace cable. Go to step 2.

No Kernel panic not relatedto AirPort. Restart fromInstall DVD or known-goodbootable external drive andcheck Panic.Log le on user’shard drive to nd out whichis the crashing I/O interface.Also troubleshoot installedMac OS X software..

With replacement AirPort2.card cable installed, verify ifcomputer starts now withoutkernel panic.

Yes AirPort cable issue. Issueresolved.

N13

No Replace AirPort card carrierboard and re-test. If issueremains, replace AirPort card.Go to step 3.

With replacement AirPort3.carrier or card installed, verifyif computer starts now without

kernel panic.

Yes AirPort carrier or card issue.Issue resolved.

N13





Ethernet Port/Device Issue

Unlikely cause: LCD display, power supply, hard drive, optical drive, fans

Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Ethernet Port/Device Issue

No Ethernet device present•Unable to access network•resourcesEthernet device shows no•connectionEthernet device unable to an IP•addressSlow network performance•

Verify if Ethernet cable is inserted into port1.correctly. Check Ethernet cable for damage. Trya known good Ethernet cable – CAT5 or betterrecommended for 100Mbps+ connections.

Check Ethernet ports on the computer and wall/2.switch for dust, debris, damage or bent pins.

Ensure distance from networking infrastructure is3.less than 300 feet/ 105 meters.

Verify port, cable and network hardware with a4.known good system. Isolate rewall, MAC addressltering or hardware access control devices.

Isolate OS by starting up from original Install5.media for this computer, a same-model computerin Target Disk Mode, or compatible known-goodOS on an external drive.

Deep Dive


Visually inspect Ethernet port1.

of computer and ensure that allpins will make physical contactwith the Ethernet cable.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Pins are damaged, bent at ormissing. Replace logic board.

M24

Boot from original Install media.2.Verify Network Link status isactive by using Network Utilityunder the “Info” tab. Verify if theLink Status is “Active”.

Yes Go to step 3.

No If same Ethernet cable givesan “Active” link status on aknown-good, same-modelcomputer, replace logic board.

M10

Connect computer to another3.Mac using CAT5 Ethernetcable. See article http://

docs.info.apple.com/article.html?path=Mac/10.5/en/8429.html. Verify if you connectsuccessfully.

Yes Ethernet communicationgood. Go to step 4.

No If same Ethernet cable andcomputer connects to aknown-good, same-modelcomputer, replace logic board.

M10

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?path=Mac/10.5/en/8429.html











Check for speed and duplex4.issues on network. OpenSystem Preference > Network;click the Advanced button,then the Ethernet tab. Verify ifthe speed and duplex reported

are what is expected.

Yes Go to step 5.

No Change speed and duplexsettings. See article http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?path=Mac/10.5/en/8711.html. Go to step 6.

Check for MTU (Maximum5. Transmission Unit) issues. SeekBase #HT2532: Mac OS X:How to change the MTU fortroubleshooting purposes.Verify if changing MTU settingson computer resolves issue.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Ethernet controller damaged.Replace logic board.

M10

If changing speed, duplex6.or MTU settings allowsconnectivity, check with aknown-good, same-modelcomputer. Verify if known-goodcomputer produces the sameresults.

Yes Check with ISP or NetworkAdministrator concerningspeed, duplex & MTU settings.

No Verify with known good OS.If issue persists, replace logicboard.

M10

Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair

Quick Check


Wireless Input Device Doesn’tPair

Can’t get system to recognize•Bluetooth keyboard or mouse

Remove and reinstall batteries for device.1.

Check that device is powering on.2.

Use known-good batteries with device.3.

Ensure that device is being used within 30-foot4.range for Bluetooth devices.

Ensure that the latest Software Updates have5.been applied.



















Deep Dive


Without any wired input1.devices connected, and with awireless mouse in discoverablemode, startup computer. Verifyif computer shows BluetoothMouse Setup Assistant.

Yes Bluetooth hardware is active.Go to step 6.

No Go to step 2.

Connect a wired mouse and2.run System Proler. Verify ifBluetooth interface is listedunder USB in System Proler.

Yes Bluetooth hardware ispresent. Go to step 6.

No Remove glass and LCD panel,reseat both ends of cablebetween Bluetooth board andlogic board. Go to step 3.

Use an external monitor.3.Run System Proler. Verify if

Bluetooth interface is listedunder USB in System Proler.

Yes Bluetooth hardware is nowpresent. Go to step 6.

No Replace Bluetooth cable.Go to step 4.

X03

Run System Proler. Verify if4.Bluetooth interface is listedunder USB in System Proler.


No Replace Bluetooth board.Go to step 5.

M11

Run System Proler. Verify if5.Bluetooth interface is listedunder USB in System Proler.



Run Software Update and6.apply any available Bluetoothupdates. Activate Bluetoothin System Preferences (orApple menu icon) then select“Congure a new Bluetoothdevice” (or run BluetoothMouse Setup Assistant). Verify ifBluetooth mouse is seen.

Yes Bluetooth discovery is nowactive. Go to step 7.

No Replace Bluetooth antenna. X03

With a wireless mouse on, and7.in discoverable mode, verify

if you can successfully pairmouse with the assistant.

Yes Check for stability.Go to step 8.

No Go to Wireless Input DeviceLoses Connection symptomow.




With wireless mouse paired,8.verify if mouse stays connected.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Inspect and reseat Bluetoothantenna cable. Replace adamaged antenna cable, orBluetooth board if its antennaconnector is damaged.

Go to step 9.

With wireless mouse paired,9.verify if mouse stays connected.

Yes Antenna issue. Issue resolved.

No Go to Wireless Input DeviceLoses Connection symptomow.

Wireless Input Device Loses Connection

Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check

Wireless Input Device LosesConnection

Wireless keyboard, mouse, or•other wireless input deviceloses connection.

Remove and reinstall batteries for device.1.

Check that device is powering on.2.

Use known-good batteries with device.3.

Ensure other devices pair and keep connection4.without issue. If not, see AirPort/BluetoothIssues symptom ow.

Ensure that device is being used within 30-foot5.

range for Bluetooth devices.Ensure that the latest Software Updates have6.been applied.

Deep Dive


Open System Preferences >1.Bluetooth. Paired items andtheir connection status are

shown. Verify if device is listed.

Yes Device has been paired.Go to step 2.

No Device is not paired. Makedevice discoverable and openBluetooth Setup Assistant.Go to step 3.




Make sure device is on.2.In System Preferences >Bluetooth, select device andfrom the Action menu (gear)choose “Connect”. Verify ifdevice connects successfully.

Yes Go to step 7.

No Delete pairing in SystemPreferences. Go to step 3.

With the device on, run3.Bluetooth Setup Assistant.Verify if you can successfullypair the device.

Yes Go to step 7.

No Restart computer.Go to step 4.

With device on, run Bluetooth4.Setup Assistant. Verify if youcan successfully pair device.

Yes Go to step 7.

No Create a new Admin User.Go to step 5.

Log into new Admin User5.account. With device on, runBluetooth Setup Assistant.

Verify if you can successfullypair device with new useraccount.

Yes User account issue. Troubleshoot software onUser account. No hardware

repair needed.No Remove the following le: /

Library/Preferences/com.apple.Bluetooth.plist Go to step 6.

Restart computer, With device6.on, run Bluetooth SetupAssistant. Verify if you cansuccessfully pair device.

Yes Go to step 7.

No Go to AirPort/BluetoothIssues symptom ow.

With device paired and7.connected, verify if deviceconnection is stable if usednormally.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Check wireless device manualto verify if device is beingused in accordance withmanufacturer’s specications(range, OS support, batterytypes). Go to step 8.

Verify if device is performing to8.stated specications.

Yes Educate user. Issue resolved.

No Replace wireless device.





Quick Check



Verify System Preferences/Network settings1. are congured appropriately to supportcommunication method.

For Ethernet connection issues verify that cable2.being used functions when used with anotherknown-good system.

For wireless connection issues review user3.environment to determine whether possibleinterference from other 2.4GHz or 5GHzcommunications devices might be contributingto issue. See kBase #HT1365: AirPort: Potentialsources of interference

Deep Dive






N99









iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 752009-11-24

Input/Output Devices

Apple Remote Inoperable


Quick Check


Apple Remote InoperableApple Remote doesn’t bring up•Front RowApple Remote doesn’t control•iTunesApple Remote doesn’t control•computer volume

Make sure Apple Remote is within 30 ft. of1.computer, and has an unobstructed line-of-sightto computer.

Make sure lens end of Apple Remote is pointing2.directly at front of computer.

Make sure “Disable remote control infrared3.receiver” checkbox in System Preferences >Security is not checked.


Deep Dive


Open Photo Booth or iChat’s1.

video preview window. PointApple Remote at built-incamera and press any buttonon Apple Remote. Verify if awhite, ashing light is visible invideo preview.

Yes Apple Remote is functioning.

Go to step 2.

No Replace Apple Remotebattery. Go to step 3.

Open System Preferences2.> Security. Verify if “Unpair”setting is available in thispreference panel.

Yes Click “Unpair” button todisable possible pairing withanother Apple Remote. Go to step 4.

No Possible IR board issue.

Go to step 5.With replacement battery,3.verify if white ashing lightis visible coming from AppleRemote in video previewwindow.

Yes Battery issue. Issue resolved. X05

No Apple Remote defective.Replace Apple Remote.

X04




After clicking “Unpair”, verify if4.the computer now responds tothe Apple Remote.

Yes Pairing issue. Issue resolved.

No Possible IR board issue. Go to step 5.

Open System Proler. Verify if5.“IR Receiver” is listed in USB list

of devices.

Yes IR board reporting on USBbus. Check for lens block.

Go to step 6.

No Inspect and reseat IR cableconnection to logic board. Go to step 7.

Check that IR board is correctly6.tted and aligned with Applewindow and that lens is notblocked by any foreign materialand re-test. Verify if computerresponds to Apple Remote.

Yes Lens blocked or sensor notaligned with window. Issueresolved.

X03

No Lens damaged or inoperable.Replace IR board. Go to step 7.

After reseating or replacing7. IR board, verify if “IR Receiver”is listed under USB in SystemProler, and that computer nowresponds to Apple Remote.

Yes IR module reseated/replaced.Issue resolved. X03

No If IR board was only reseated,replace IR cable. Go to step 8.

After replacing IR cable, verify8.if “IR Receiver” is listed underUSB in System Proler, and thatcomputer now responds toApple Remote.

Yes IR cable replaced. Issueresolved.

X03

No Replace IR board. Go to step 9.

After replacing IR board, verify9.if “IR Receiver” is listed underUSB in System Proler, and thatcomputer now responds toApple Remote.

Yes IR board replaced. Issueresolved.

X03





Audio: Microphone


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Audio: Microphone

Microphone not working•Microphone audio garbled•No sound•

Verify that no tape, sticky notes, or other objects1.are blocking microphone located on top ofcomputer near camera. Microscopic perforationson top of computer must be free of obstructionsin order for microphone to function.

Go to System Preferences > Sound > Input. 2.Verify that sound input device is set to internalmicrophone.

Go to System Preferences > Sound > Input. 3.Verify that “Input volume” setting is set above

minimum level.Go to System Preferences > Sound > Input. 4.Verify that “Input level” indicator moves whenspeaking into microphone.

Deep Dive


Verify if boot chime is present1.when system is poweredON. Make sure audio outputpreferences are not set to mute.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Reset PRAM and retest.

Make sure no cables are2.connected to external soundinput/output ports. Go toSystem Preferences > Sound >Input and verify that “Internalmicrophone” is an availableoption.

Yes Go to step 3.

No Replace audio cable. M09

Go to System Preferences >3.Sound > Input and verify if“Input volume” is set above

minimum sensitivity.

Yes Go to step 4.

No Set “Input volume” slider to

middle position. Retest.

Go to System Preferences4.> Sound > Input and verifyif “Input level” indicatormoves when speaking intomicrophone.

Yes Microphone and audio inputfunctioning. Go to step 6.

No Suspect bad microphoneconnection. Reseatmicrophone connector onlogic board. Go to step 5.




Inspect microphone cable5.routing and verify if cable ispinched or damaged.

Yes Replace rear housing(microphone cable notavailable separately).

L14

No Go to step 6.

Record sound sample using6.

GarageBand or iMovie. Verify ifsound quality of sound sampleis normal during playback.

Yes Microphone circuitry OK.

Return system to user.


Audio: Built-in Speakers Have Distorted Sound


Quick Check


Audio: Built-in Speakers HaveDistorted Sound

No audio from one or both•speakers.Audio from speakers distorted•

Go to System Preferences > Sound > Output.1.Verify that sound output device is set to internalspeakers and that balance control is set to thecenter position.

Obtain known-good high-quality sound le or2.use iTunes Store sound samples to evaluatesound quality. Verify suspect sound les onanother system to determine if distortion iscaused by computer or sound le.

Set volume control to mid-range. Overdriving3. built-in speakers can cause distortion.

Deep Dive


Go to System Preferences >1.Sound > Output. Set speakerbalance 100% to LEFT speakerand play a known-good soundle. Verify if sound is generatedby LEFT speaker and that soundquality is acceptable.

Yes LEFT speaker and ampliercircuitry OK. Go to step 2.

No Distortion detected in LEFTspeaker. Set Balance slider to

middle position. Go to step 3.

Set speaker balance 100%2.to RIGHT speaker and play aknown-good sound le. Verifyif sound is generated by RIGHTspeaker and that sound qualityis acceptable.

Yes RIGHT speaker and ampliercircuitry OK. Set Balance sliderto middle. Go to step 3.

No Distortion detected in RIGHTspeaker. Go to step 4.




Connect external speakers or3.headphones to audio-out portand play a known-good soundle. Verify if sound quality isacceptable.

Yes Suspect bad speaker. Go to step 4.

No Audio CODEC or amplierissue suspected. Replace logicboard and retest.

M09

Inspect LEFT and RIGHT4.speaker cones and speakerconnection cable for damage.Verify if speakers have visibledamage.

Yes Replace damaged speaker.Retest.

L11

No Go to step 5.

Install known-good speaker5.into location where distortedsound was heard. Verify ifsound quality improves.

Yes Replace speaker. L11

No Speaker amplier issuesuspected. Replace logicboard.

M09

Audio: Built-in Speakers Have No Audio


Quick Check


Audio: Built-in Speakers Have NoAudio

No audio from one or both•speakers.Audio from speakers distorted•

Go to System Preferences > Sound > Output.1.Verify that sound output device is set to internal

speakers.Go to System Preferences > Sound > Output.2.Verify that “Output volume” setting is set abovethe minimum level and that “Mute” checkbox isnot selected.

Go to System Preferences > Sound > Output.3.Verify that “Balance” slider is set to middleposition so left and right speakers are both used.

Deep Dive


Verify if boot chime is present1.when system is poweredON. Make sure audio outputpreferences are not set to muteand volume is set to mid-range.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Reset PRAM and retest.




Make sure no cables are2.connected to external soundinput/output ports. Go toSystem Preferences > Sound >Output and verify that “Internalspeakers” is an available option.

Yes Go to step 3.

No If “Headphones” is the onlyavailable sound outputdevice, replace audio cable.

If “Digital output” is the

only available sound outputdevice, reseat audio cable tologic board. If issue persists,replace audio cable.


L11

L11

M09

Go to System Preferences >3.Sound > Output. Set speakerbalance 100% to LEFT speakerand play a known-good soundle. Verify if sound is generated

by LEFT speaker and that soundquality is acceptable.

Yes LEFT speaker and ampliercircuitry OK. Go to step 4.

No No audio in LEFT speaker. Go to step 7.

Set speaker balance 100%4.to RIGHT speaker and play aknown-good sound le. Verifyif sound is generated by RIGHTspeaker and that sound qualityis acceptable.

Yes RIGHT speaker and ampliercircuitry OK. Set Balance sliderto middle. Go to step 5.

No No audio in RIGHT speaker. Go to step 7.

Verify if user-reported audio5.issue has been resolved.

Yes Issue no longer present.Return system to user.

No Go to step 6.

Boot system from Install6.DVD or another known-goodbootable volume. Verify if issuestill occurs.

Yes Go to step 7.

No Known-good boot volumeworks OK. Troubleshoot forsoftware issue. Isolate if issueis application-specic or apossible OS conict.

Connect external speakers or7.headphones to audio-out portand play a known-good soundle. Verify if sound quality isacceptable.

Yes Logic board, internalspeakers, and audio-out portfunctioning correctly. Returnsystem to user.

No Go to step 8.

Disconnect and carefully8.inspect audio cable andconnection to logic board fordamage such as bent pins orpinched/cut wires.

Yes Replace damaged audiocable. If issue persists, verify ifsymptom has changed.

L14





Camera Issues

Unlikely cause: LCD display, power supply, hard drive, optical drive, fans, speakers, microphone

Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Camera Issues

Camera not detected•No green LED for camera•Excessive blooming•Poor White Balance•Poor Focus•Green image•Image distortion•

Launch System Proler and conrm that system’s1.USB hub and built-in camera are visible.

Verify camera lens and glass panel are clean and2.free of contaminants. Clean glass panel if needed.

Launch Photo Booth to verify that green indicator3.LED near camera lens turns on and image qualityis acceptable.

Deep Dive


Launch System Proler and1.verify built-in camera is visiblein USB list of devices.

Yes Camera recognized. Go to step 2

No Inspect and reseat cameracable connection on logicboard. Go to step 2.

Launch Photo Booth. Verify if2.green LED near camera lens

turns ON and image appearsnormal.

Yes Camera functioning. Returnsystem to user.

No Remove glass and clean bothsides. Clean camera lens.

If issue persists, replacecamera cable.

If issue persists, replacecamera.


X07

X07

M13




FireWire Device Not Recognized


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check FireWire Device Not Recognized

FireWire hard drive not•recognizedFireWire optical drive not•recognizedFireWire camera not recognized•FireWire printer not recognized•

For external FireWire drives, make sure any1.external power source is plugged in andoperating to isolate a power issue with thedevice.

Test a known-good FireWire device to isolate a2.failed peripheral issue.

Test a known-good FireWire cable to isolate a3.FireWire cable issue.


Launch System Proler and verify if the aected5.FireWire device is visible on FireWire bus. If yes,then FireWire port and cable are functioningproperly. Contact FireWire device manufacturer toverify that device is supported.

Deep Dive


Unplug all FireWire devices1. from computer. Reset PRAM.Reconnect FireWire devicein question. Verify if FireWiredevice is recognized.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Possible logic board failure. Go to step 2.

Use a known-good FireWire2.cable with a known-goodFireWire device (such asanother Mac in Target DiskMode). Verify if FireWire deviceis recognized.

Yes Try FireWire device in questionwith a known-good computerof same model. Go to step 3.

No FireWire not recognized.Replace logic board.

M12

Verify if FireWire device is3.recognized on a known-goodsame model computer.

Yes Go to step 4.

No Device may need additionalpower. Use a powered FireWirehub. Go to step 5.




Verify if FireWire device is4.recognized with a known-good FireWire cable on user’scomputer.

Yes FireWire cable issue. Issueresolved.

No FireWire device may needadditional power. Go to step 5.

Using a powered FireWire5.

hub, and having installed anysoftware or rmware updatesfor the device, verify if FireWiredevice is now recognized.

Yes Device recognized. Required

additional power from hub orupdate. Issue resolved.

No Device may require additionalsoftware, or there may be aconict in the Mac OS. Go tostep 6.

Create a new user in System6.Preferences > Accounts andlog out current user. Log inon new user account andverify if FireWire device is now

recognized.

Yes Software Issue. Troubleshootsoftware on User account. Issueresolved.

No Apply all Mac OS and FireWire

specic updates. If issuepersists, contact devicemanufacturer for support.FireWire port and cable havebeen veried.




USB Device Not Recognized


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check USB Device Not Recognized

USB wired keyboard/mouse not•recognizedUSB external drive not•recognizedUSB camera not recognized•USB printer not recognized•

Reset SMC.1.

For printers and external USB drives, make sure2.any external power source is plugged in andoperating to isolate a power issue with device.

The iMac has 4 USB ports on rear of computer. Try3.each port to isolate a particular port malfunction.

Test with a known-good wired keyboard or4.mouse to isolate a failed peripheral issue.

Test with a known-good USB cable when dealing5.

with a printer or external USB drive, to isolate aUSB cable issue.


Launch System Proler and verify if device is7.visible on USB bus. If yes, then the USB port andcable are functioning properly. Contact devicemanufacturer to verify that device is supported.

Deep Dive


Unplug all USB devices from1.the computer except for USBkeyboard and mouse. Startcomputer and reset PRAM.Verify if USB keyboard andmouse are recognized.

Yes Test with all USB ports toensure all USB ports workingas expected. Replace logicboard for any port failures.

No Reset SMC. Go to step 2.

Verify if Bluetooth Mouse Setup2.assistant launches after startup.

Yes Bluetooth detected, butexternal USB devices notrecognized. Go to step 3.

No Disconnect USB keyboard andmouse. Go to step 4.




Verify if a known-good USB3.keyboard and mouse arerecognized.

Yes Test original USB mouse andkeyboard. Replace if still notrecognized. Go to step 5.

No External USB ports notfunctioning. Replace logicboard.

M15

With no USB devices4.connected, restart computer.Verify if Bluetooth Mouse Setupassistant launches after startup.

Yes Bluetooth detected. Go to step 3.

No Bluetooth not recognized.Internal and external USB notfunctioning. Replace logicboard.

M15

With known-good USB5.keyboard and mouse working,test USB peripheral in question(USB hard drive or printer, etc.)

Verify if device is recognized inSystem Proler under USB.

Yes Device recognized. Test in allUSB ports to ensure all USBports working as expected.Replace logic board for any

port failures.

M15

No Device may require morepower than supplied by USBports. Test with a poweredUSB hub. Go to step 6.

Verify if using a powered USB6.hub resolves the issue.

Yes Test device on same USB portof a same-model computer.If other computer does notrequire a powered USB hubto allow functionality, replacelogic board.

M15

No Ensure all software andrmware updates havebeen applied for computerand device. If issue persists,contact device manufacturerfor support. The computer’sUSB ports and cable havebeen veried.




Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Wired Keyboard Does NotFunction 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

Reset SMC1.

Open System Preferences > Universal Access >2.Mouse & Trackpad and verify that Mouse Keysis turned OFF. When enabled, Mouse Keys candisable functionality of some or most keys,depending on keyboard used.

The iMac has 4 USB ports on rear of computer.3.Make sure to try each port to isolate a particularport malfunction.

Test with a known-good wired keyboard to4.isolate a failed peripheral issue.

Test wired keyboard on a known-good, same-5.model computer. If it works on the othercomputer, this may indicate a bad USB port ifkeyboard doesn’t work at all on user ’s computer,or a software issue if keyboard is working but notas expected on user’s computer.


Deep Dive


Verify if all keys on keyboard1.work.

Yes Go to step 2.

No Go to USB Device NotRecognized symptom ow.

Verify if Caps Lock is working as2.expected.

Yes Go to step 3.

No Go to Keyboard: SpecicKeys Do Not Respond

symptom owVerify if media Eject key is3.working as expected. Note thatto prevent accidentally ejectingmedia, Mac OS X adds a slightdelay to the media Eject keybefore it takes eect.

Yes Go to step 4.

No Go to step 5.




Open System Preferences >4.Speech. Verify if the “Speakselected text when the key ispressed” checkbox is selected.

Yes The key combination to speaktext cannot be used for anyother purpose. Either disable,or change to a more rarekey combination (includingShift, Command, Option and

Control).No Go to step 6. M15

With optical media in the drive,5.hold the media Eject key. Verifyif the eject symbol appears onscreen and that optical mediais ejected if present.

Yes Normal media eject key delay.No repair necessary.

No Go to Optical Drive Won’tAccept/Eject Media

symptom ow.

Open System Preferences >6.Language and Text > InputMenu. Check “Keyboard Viewer”.

From the Input Menu (ag) inthe Menu Bar, choose “ShowKeyboard Viewer”. Verify if keyspressed appear in KeyboardViewer.

Yes Keys recognized. Go to step 9.

No Keys not recognized. Replace keyboard.

K01

Open TextEdit or another text7.application and try typingsomething using the non-responding keys. Verify ifthey are typed in this otherapplication.

Yes Application-specic issue. Troubleshoot application.

No Create a new user accountin System Preferences >Accounts, log out fromcurrent user and log in with

new user to isolate a Useraccount related issue. If issuepersists, reinstall Mac OS Xfrom Install DVD.




Keyboard: Specic Keys Do Not Respond


Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Keyboard: Specic Keys Do NotRespond

One or more keys do not•respond when pressedKey sticks•Keycap missing•

If wireless keyboard is being used verify that it is1.properly paired with computer. Go to WirelessInput Device Doesn’t Pair symptom ow toresolve pairing issues.

The caps lock key has a built-in delay to reduce2.accidental activation and must be held forapproximately ½ second for it to be activated. SeekBase #TS1578: Apple Keyboard (2007): CapsLock modied to reduce accidental activation.

Inspect keyboard for signs of liquid spills or other3.

contamination. Apple’s warranty does not coveraccidental damage.

If keycap is loose attempt to reattach it.4.

For other keyboard issues jump to appropriate5.symptom ow.

Wired Keyboard/Mouse Not Recognized


Quick Check


Wired Keyboard/Mouse NotRecognized

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.

Reset SMC.1.

The iMac has 4 USB ports on rear of computer.2.Make sure to try each port to isolate a particularport malfunction.

Test with a known-good wired keyboard or3.mouse to isolate a failed peripheral issue.

Test a mouse when connected directly to ports4.on the back of iMac to isolate a keyboard USBport issue.









Deep Dive


Verify if computer recognizes1.keyboard or mouse whenplugged into rear USB ports onback of iMac.

Yes Test device in all USB ports toensure all other USB ports areworking as expected.

Replace logic board if anyUSB port on rear fails.

Replace keyboard if any USBport on keyboard fails.

Go to step 2.

M15

K11

No Go to USB Device NotRecognized symptom ow.

Verify if keyboard is working as2.expected.

Yes Go to step 3.

No Go to Wired Keyboard Does

Not Function Properly symptom ow.

Verify if mouse has an issue3.with scroll ball.

Yes See kBase #HT1537: How toclean your Mighty Mouse.

No Go to step 4.

Verify if mouse has an issue4.with buttons.

Yes Go to step 7.

No Go to step 5.

Verify if mouse has an issue5.with tracking.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Go to step 7. Try using mouse on another6.surface. Non-reective, opaquesurfaces without repetitivepatterns work best. The surfaceshould be clean but not shiny.Verify if mouse tracks correctlywhen used on another surface.

Yes Surface issue. Issue resolved.

No Go to step 7

See7. kBase #HT1581:Troubleshooting MightyMouse and determiningexpected behavior. Verify ifthis article resolves issue.

Yes Issue resolved.

No Replace wired mouse. K99

















Quick Check



Reset SMC.1.Verify that external I/O device (where applicable)2.works on a known-good, same-model computer.

For third party I/O devices, make sure necessary3.software is installed and up-to-date, and thatdevice is supported with user’s system.

Deep Dive


Verify if existing symptom code1. applies to issue reported byuser.




N99





iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mechanical 912009-11-24

Mechanical

Noise/Hum/Vibration

Unlikely cause: LCD panel, glass panel, enclosure, cables

Quick Check


Noise/Hum/VibrationBuzzing noise•Rattling noise•

Ticking noise•Squeaking noise•

Verify that the vents on the bottom and1.back of the system are free of dust and otherobstructions that might inhibit proper airowthrough the system.

Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor.2.Determine whether an application or process is

consuming a high percentage of CPU bandwidth.CPU-intensive applications can cause the fansto run fast in order to maintain the properinternal system temperatures. If needed, quit theapplication or restart the system to resolve theissue.

Eject optical media from optical drive. Out-of-3.balance optical media can generate audiblenoise. To resolve try a dierent brand of media.For additional information, go to Optical DriveNoisy symptom ow.

Tilt display to hinge limits to determine if4.

mechanical noise is generated by the hingemechanism. For additional information, go toStand/Hinge Issues symptom ow.

Play sound sample at loud and soft volume5.levels to determine if the noise is caused by theleft/right speakers or the amplier circuit. Plugexternal headphones to identify whether thenoise comes from audio out or from other source.For additional information, go to Audio: Built-inSpeakers Have Distorted Sound symptom ow.

Adjust the display brightness to determine6.whether the noise is related to the brightnesslevel. For additional information, go to Noise/Unstable Flickering symptom ow.




Deep Dive


Verify if any tape, gasket, cable1.label, or cable is touchingthe fan blades and causing a

ticking noise.

Yes Secure the material so itdoesn’t touch fan blades. Iftape adhesive has lost its

stickiness, replace that sectionof tape.

No Go to step 2.

Run Apple System Diagnostic.2.Verify if running ASD generatesone or more errors.

Yes Go to ASD Error Codestable to decode error. Followinstructions in table forresolving error, then retest.

No Go to step 3.

Verify if noise sounds like one3.or more fans are spinning faster

than expected.

Yes Reset SMC by disconnectingpower cord for ~15 seconds

then retest. If issue continuesgo to step 3.

No Go to step 6.

Verify if noise changes when4.optical drive is being accessedor media is inserted or ejected.

Yes Suspect issue with opticaldrive or media used.Go to Optical Drive Noisy

symptom ow.

No Go to step 5.

Mute the system volume. Verify5.if issue still occurs.

Yes Go to step 6.

No Suspect issue with speakersor audio amplier circuitry.Go to Audio: Built-inSpeakers Have DistortedSound symptom ow.

Adjust brightness on display6.between maximum andminimum settings. Verify ifissue changes depending onbrightness level.

Yes Suspect issue with LCDdisplay or backlight controllerboard. Go to Noise/UnstableFlickering symptom ow.

No Go to step 7.

Remove fans and rotate7.

blades. Verify if fan blades spinsmoothly without interferencefrom fan housing.

Yes Go to step 8.

No Replace aected fan. P04




Reinstall fans while carefully8.ensuring that there are nocables routed under or nearfan assembly that might causeinterference with fan blades.After reassembling system

verify if noise issue is resolved.

Yes Noise issue resolved. Suspectissue caused by interferencefrom wiring or possibledistortion or fan housingwhen installed in system.

P04

No Go to step 9. Temporarily remove LCD9.display then power ON system.Verify if source of noise can belocated. Caution: The exposedpower supply poses a seriousshock hazard. Take properprecautions when workingaround an energized system.

Yes Identify, inspect, and ifnecessary replace part thatcaused noise issue.

P04

No Go to step 10.

Disconnect these major10.modules/parts (hard drive,optical drive, fans, LCD display)one at a time then power ONthe system. Determine if noiseissue goes away when one ofthe modules is disconnected. Caution: The exposed powersupply poses a serious shockhazard. Take proper precautionswhen working around anenergized system.

Yes Identify, inspect, and ifnecessary replace part thatcaused noise to disappearwhen it was disconnectedfrom the system.

P04

No All parts veried. Verify thatcorrect symptom ow isbeing used.




Fan Failures / Thermal Issues

Unlikely cause: speakers

Quick Check

Symptoms Quick Check Fan Failures / Thermal Issues

System feels very hot•Fan(s) not operating•Fan(s) running fast•System is noisy•

Verify that vents on bottom and back of system1.are free of dust and other obstructions that mightinhibit proper airow through the system.

Verify that computer is not exposed to direct2.sunlight which may heat up enclosure, making itfeel hot to the touch.

Verify computer is not running hotter than3.expected for normal operation. If possible,compare to a similarly congured system. Note:Power supply is located in upper left corner

where highest temperatures can usually be felt.Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor.4.Verify if an application or process is consuminga high percentage of CPU bandwidth. CPU-intensive applications can cause fans to runfast in order to maintain proper internal systemtemperatures. If needed, quit the application orrestart the system to resolve issue.

Reset SMC by unplugging power cord for ~155.seconds.


Run Apple System Diagnostic.1.Verify if ASD generates one ormore errors.

Yes Suspect possible fan or sensorerror. Go to ASD Error Codestable to decode error. Followinstructions in table forresolving error, then retest.

No Go to step 2.

Verify if noise sounds like one2.

or more fans running fasterthan expected.

Yes Fans running fast. Reset SMC

by disconnecting power cordfor ~15 seconds then retest. Ifissue continues go to step 3.

No Go to step 3.




Verify if any tape, gasket, cable3.label, or cable is touchingthe fan blades and causing aticking noise.

Yes Secure the material so itdoesn’t touch fan blades. Iftape adhesive has lost itsstickiness, replace that sectionof tape.

No Go to step 4.

Remove fans and rotate blades.4.Check for any dust that couldbe clogging the fans. Verifyif fan blades spin smoothlywithout interference from fanhousing and fan blades are allintact.

Yes Go to step 5.

No Replace aected fan(s). P06

Run Apple Service Diagnostics5.stand-alone tests in loopingmode, and verify if all sensor orfans related tests pass.

Yes Noise issue resolved.

No Check for correct sensors/fansconnections on logic board.

Check for pinched cables.Compare with known-goodsimilar system, and checkfor unlisted sensors. Replaceaected sensor/fan.

P06

Stand/Hinge Issues


Stand/Hinge IssuesBent stand•Broken hinge•Stripped screw/head•Stripped screw boss•

Determine if damage caused by user /technician1.environment, accidental damage, or abuse. Ifso, inform user/technician the failures are notcovered by Apple warranties. Refer tohttp://www.apple.com/legal/warranty

For hinge noise issues replace hinge mechanism.2.







Physical Damage


Physical DamageBroken glass•Bent stand•Broken hinge•Stripped screw/head•Stripped screw boss•Dent or scratch to chassis•

Verify if damage caused by user environment,1.accidental damage, or abuse. If applicable informthe user that Apple does not warrant damagecaused by accident, abuse, misuse, ood, re,earthquake, or other external causes. Refer to:http://www.apple.com/legal/warranty







N99










Take ApartiMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009)



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — General Information 982009-11-24

General Information

Opening the Unit

The• iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) has a glass panel that attaches to the front, which must beremoved prior to replacing any module on the unit.Important:• The glass panel should only be removed by Apple-authorized technicians.Follow all cleaning and handling instructions to prevent damaging glass panel or LCD panel.Follow ESD precautions when glass panel is removed.•

For more information about ESD, refer to: kBase #HT3451: Electrostatic Discharge Precautions and Myths AppleCare Service Training: ESD Precautions

Required Tools

The following tools are required to service an iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009):ESD-safe workstation, including an ESD mat and wrist or heel strap•ESD bags (for storing ESD-sensitive parts while removed from unit)•Magnetized Torx T10 screwdriver•Magnetized Torx T8 screwdriver•Magnetized Torx T6 screwdriver•Phillips #2 screwdriver•Black stick (nylon probe, Apple part #922-5065) or other non-conductive nylon or plastic•

at-blade tool Thermal paste (thermal compound syringe, Apple part #922-7144)•Kapton tape•Magnifying glass, for reading serial number etched on bottom of stand•Digital volt meter (for troubleshooting)•Soft, clean towel or cloth (to protect display and removed parts from scratches)•

For more information about tools, refer to: kBase #HT3452: Hand Tools for Desktop and Portable Repairs

In addition, the following software programs are required for troubleshooting:Apple Service Diagnostic (ASD), version 3S133 or later•Apple Hardware Test (AHT), version 3A176 or later•Bluetooth Service Diagnostic•



http://service.info.apple.com/service_training/en/007/esd/index.php?page=intro










Required Special Tools for Glass Panel

Special tools are required to remove, handle and clean glass panel.922-8252 – Suction cups, Pkg of 2•922-8253 – Gloves, lint-free, anti-static, Pkg of 2•922-8258 – ESD bags, 24”x20”, Pkg of 5. To prevent buildup of static charges which may•

attract dust particles, store LCD panel in an ESD bag when it is removed from unit.922-8259 – Microfoam bag to store glass panel, Pkg of 5•922-8261 – Sticky silicone roller (6-inch) to clean glass panel•922-8262 – Sticky sheet pads to clean silicone roller•922-8263 – Polishing cloths, anti-static, optical-grade micro-terry, Pkg of 5•iKlear Apple Polish or Brillianize anti-static spray cleaning solution. If you are unable to•source iKlear or Brillianize, IPA (isopropyl alcohol) can be used to clean glass.

Cleaning Tools Starter Kit

The following tools are oered in the cleaning starter kit (076-1277):Suction cups, 1 pair•Gloves, lint-free, anti-static, 2 pairs•Sticky silicone roller (6-inch) to clean glass panel•Sticky sheets to clean the silicone roller, 2 pads•Polishing cloths, clean, anti-static, optical-grade micro-ber “terry” style, 5 cloths•Microfoam bag to store glass panel, 5 bags•ESD bag for LCD panel storage, 5 bags•

Cleaning Tool Resources

Note: Apple Retail technicians should refer to standard internal resources for tool ordering.MCM Portal •http://www.mcmb2b.com/appleasp

LENSPEN: LapTop Pro or VidiMax are very eective in removing ngerprints on LCD and•inside surface of glass. http://www.lenspen.com/

iKlear Apple Polish •http://www.klearscreen.com/iKlear.aspxl

Brillianize •

http://www.brillianize.com/

http://www.mcmb2b.com/appleasp

http://www.lenspen.com/

http://www.klearscreen.com/iKlear.aspx

http://meridrew.com/international.html



http://meridrew.com/international.html

http://www.klearscreen.com/iKlear.aspx

http://www.lenspen.com/

http://www.mcmb2b.com/appleasp




Cleaning & Handling the Glass Panel

Follow cleaning procedures in this manual to ensure glass panel is free of dust and otherparticles before returning the computer to customer.

The glass panel is not tempered and will break into sharp pieces of mishandled.•A scratched or broken glass panel is not covered under warranty.Removing glass panel requires special tools such as lint-free gloves, rubber suction cups,•microfoam storage bags, and iKlear cleaning solution.

To prevent contamination, wear lint-free gloves and handle glass only by edges.•

Do’s and Don’ts

DOHandle glass panel using lint-free gloves.•Use only a sticky silicone roller to clean the inside surface of glass and LCD panel.•Use iKlear ONLY on the outside surface of glass panel.•Place glass panel into a clean protective microfoam bag when removed from unit.•Store glass panel in a safe area where it will not be broken or damaged.•Store LCD panel in an anti-static bag to prevent buildup of static charges which may attract•dust particles to display’s surface.Store silicone roller and sticky paper within a temperature range of 39-104 F (5-40 C).•If silicone roller is no longer tacky, wash it in warm soapy water or wipe with isopropyl•alcohol. If tackiness does not return, replace silicone roller.

DON’T Touch inside of glass with bare hands or dirty gloves. Fingerprints are dicult to remove.•Place glass panel onto a work surface where it may collect dust and other contaminants•unless it has rst been placed into a protective microfoam bag.

Handling a Broken Glass Panel

The glass panel is not tempered and will break into sharp pieces if mishandled. If the glass isbroken it must be carefully removed from the unit to prevent irreparable damage to the frontsurface of the LCD. If the front surface of the LCD is scratched by broken glass, the LCD mayneed to be replaced.




How to Remove a Broken Glass Panel

A shattered panel can be removed using safety glasses, packing tape, and leather gloves.

Put on the safety glasses and leather gloves.1.

Lay the computer on a smooth, clean work surface.2.

Peel protective covering o the front of the glass. Remove and discard any large pieces of3.broken glass.




Apply a strip of packing tape horizontally across the top and bottom of the glass panel.4.Next, apply the tape diagonally, across the broken glass panel, forming an “X.”

Continue applying tape horizontally, thoroughly covering the broken glass. Most of the5.glass will still be attached to the steel ring that runs around the perimeter of the glasspanel.




Use a black stick to pry the glass panel o the magnets on the rear housing.6.

Lift the entire glass panel o the rear housing.7.




Place the broken glass inside a large box, label the box, and dispose of it properly.8.

Using a whisk broom, clean the work surface of tiny glass particles.9.

Stand the iMac up and use a lint free cloth to carefully brush any of the particles o the10.iMac onto the table. Clean the work surface again.

When the repair is nished the cloth should be disposed of immediately.11.

Use a broom and dustpan to sweep up as much of the broken glass as possible. Glass12.fragments may have traveled several feet from the location of the glass panel, so be sure tothoroughly clean the entire area. Use a vacuum to remove the smaller fragments not pickedup by the broom.

Note: A broken glass panel may leave one or more scratches on the LCD display depending onthe severity of the glass breakage. As long as the LCD itself has not been fractured the LCD doesnot require replacement, but be sure to let the customer know that the scratches are there andwere caused by the broken glass panel.




Safety

Warning: HIGH VOLTAGE:The AC/DC power supply PCB remains powered up wheneversystem is plugged in, whether or not system has been turned on. Use extreme cautionwhen troubleshooting system with glass panel and LCD panel removed.

Don’t work alone. In the event of electrical shock it is important to have another•individual present who can provide assistance.Keep one hand in your pocket when working on any iMac system that is plugged•in. This will help ensure that your body does not provide a path to ground in theevent that you accidentally make contact with line voltage.Don’t wear jewelry, watches, necklaces, or other metallic articles that could present•a risk if they accidentally make contact with power supply circuitry.

Use extreme caution when working around power supply. The power supply contains ahigh voltage capacitor that may remain charged for several minutes even when computer isunplugged. Never touch leads on top side of power supply, especially capacitor leads locatednear warning sign.

Important: If computer is shut down by removing power cord, allow power supply a good 2-3minutes to discharge capacitors before handling it. However, if you select “Shut Down” via theApple menu, the computer will discharge power supply capacitor almost immediately.




Logic Board Handling

IMPORTANT: Always use two hands to support logic board and heatsink. Handling boardincorrectly could ex board and damage chips and circuitry. Never handle board by heatsink.

Reassembly StepsWhen no replacement steps are listed, replace parts in exact reverse order of Removalprocedure.

Note About Images in This Guide

Because a pre-production model was used for most images in this manual, you may notice smalldierences in appearance between the image pictured and the computer you are servicing.However, although appearance may dier, steps and sequence are the same unless noted.

Screw SizesAll screw sizes shown are approximate and represent the total length of the screw.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Access Door 1072009-11-24

First Steps

Shut down computer.•Wait 10 minutes.•Unplug all cables and•the power cord.Put on ESD strap.•Place computer face•down on a clean, atsurface so the bottomis facing you.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•Phillips #2 screwdriver•

Access Door



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Access Door 1082009-11-24

Removal

Raise the stand and1loosen 3 captivePhillips #2 screws.

Remove access door.2

Important: To ensureproper cooling, iMacshould not be operatedwithout access doorinstalled.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Memory 1092009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Access Door•

Note: This computeruses PC3-8500, DDR3,1066 MHz SO-DIMMs.

The maximum amountof memory is 16GB, witha 4GB DIMM installed ineach slot.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•Black stick •

Memory



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Memory 1102009-11-24

Removal

Untuck tabs1in memorycompartment.

Pull tab to eject2installed memorymodule.

Reassembly

Orient notch on1memory withnotch in memorycompartment.

Press memory rmly2 into slot until youhear a click.

Tuck black plastic3tabs into memorycompartment.

Replace access door4and tighten 3 captive

screws.Important: To ensureproper cooling, iMacshould not be operatedwithout access doorinstalled.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Glass Panel 1112009-11-24

First Steps

Shut down computer.•Wait 10 minutes.•Unplug all cables and•the power cord.Put on ESD strap.•

Caution: The glass panel

is not tempered and willbreak into sharp pieces ifmishandled. A scratchedor broken glass panel isnot covered by warranty.

Important: This procedure requiresspecial tools, which areoered individually or aspart of a cleaning kit. See

General Take Apart sectionfor more information.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•lint-free gloves•

suction cups•sticky silicone roller•sticky sheets to clean•the silicone rollermicrofoam bag •to store glass panel

Glass Panel




Removal

Note: Glass panel is heldin place by magnets.

Caution: Unlike previousmodel iMacs, the glasspanel has tabs alongbottom that align withrear housing. Be carefulnot to damage tabs whenremoving glass panel.

Apple stronglyrecommends wearing

clean, lint-free gloveswhenever handling theglass panel, to reducecleaning required onreassembly.

Lay computer on1its back and pressclean suction cups inopposite corners onglass panel.

Lift panel up and o.2




Remove suction cups3and slide glass into

protective microfoambag.

Reassembly

Remove protective1covering from silicone

roller and sticky sheet.

Clean silicone roller2by rolling it back andforth a few times onsticky sheet.

If sticky sheet looksdirty, use a new one. If roller is no longer

tacky, wash it in warmsoapy water.If tackiness does notreturn, replace siliconeroller.




Set unit in upright3position to minimize

settling of dust.

Roll silicone roller over4LCD panel to removeany particles.

Remove glass panel5from microfoam bag.

Clean INSIDE of glass6panel with the siliconeroller to remove dust.

Note: If ngerprintsor oils are on inside of

glass, clean rst withisopropyl alcohol.




Wearing clean gloves,7place glass directly

onto unit, aligningtabs along bottomwith notches in rearhousing. Magnets willcatch it and hold it inplace.

Make sure glass is ushwith rear housing afterit is reinstalled.

Clean outside of glass8 panel with a cleanmicrober cloth. Ifnecessary, use a smallamount of iKlearpolish. Wipe glassuntil there is no longerany residue or haze.

Inspect glass for9any remaining dust,ngerprints, or a hazyresidue. If there arecontaminants trappedbetween LCD paneland glass panel, repeatcleaning procedure.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Camera 1162009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•

Tools

ESD wrist strap• Torx T10 screwdriver•

Camera



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Camera 1172009-11-24

Removal

Remove T10 screws: 1(2) 922-xxxx

2 Lift camera bracket outof rear housing.

Disconnect camera3cable from cameraassembly.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — LCD Panel 1182009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•

Important: To preventbuildup of static charges

which may attract dustparticles to the surfaceof the display, store LCDpanel in an anti-staticbag whenever it has beenremoved from computer.

Tools

ESD wrist strap• Torx T10 screwdriver•ESD bag to store LCD•panel

LCD Panel




Removal

Remove T10 screws: 1(8) 922-9246

With computer2standing up and facingyou, pull the LCDforward slightly fromthe top edge.




Looking down into3computer, disconnect 4cables:

#1: vertical sync•#2: backlight power•#3: display temp sensor•#4: LVDS•

LEFT: Close-up of #1vertical sync cable (922-9142) at top of LEDbacklight board. Pullstraight out of connector.

RIGHT: Close-up of #3display temp sensor cable(922-9141) at top center oflogic board.

LEFT: Close-up of #2backlight power cable atbottom of LED backlightboard. Pinch and pull cablefrom connector.

RIGHT: Close-up of #4LVDS cable (922-9132) at

top center of logic board.Squeeze both sides andpull to release cable fromconnector.




Replacement Note:If installing a new LCD

panel, disconnect LVDScable and vertical synccable and transfer to newpanel. Secure with blackmylar tape included withnew LCD panel.

A replacement LCD panelincludes:

display temp sensor•cable & retaining clip

backlight power cable• mylar tape•



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Vertical Sync Cable 1222009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•

Removal

Peel back any black1mylar securing cableto LCD panel.

Pull cable straight out2of connector.

Vertical Sync Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — LCD Temp Sensor Cable 1232009-11-24

First Steps


Removal

Peel back black1insulator to accessentire cable.

Disconnect cable2from bracket.

LCD Temp Sensor Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — LVDS Cable 1242009-11-24

First Steps


Removal

Peel back any black1mylar securing cableto LCD panel.

Disconnect LVDS2cable by (2) pressingin on side release

clips and then (3)gently pulling down.

LVDS Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Bluetooth Antenna 1252009-11-24

First Steps


Tools


Bluetooth Antenna



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Bluetooth Antenna 1262009-11-24

Removal


Disconnect blue2antenna cable fromBluetooth board.





iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Bluetooth Board 1282009-11-24

Removal

Remove T8 screw: 1(1) 922-9247

Disconnect blue2antenna cable.

Disconnect black3cable.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort Antenna 1292009-11-24

First Steps


Note: There is a secondAirPort antenna built-into rear housing behindApple logo on back ofiMac, however, it is notremovable and can onlybe repaired via rearhousing replacement.

Tools


AirPort Antenna



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort Antenna 1302009-11-24

Removal


Disconnect black2antenna cable fromAirPort card.

Peel up clear tape3securing antenna

cable to rear housing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort Card 1312009-11-24

First Steps


Tools


AirPort Card



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort Card 1322009-11-24

Removal


Disconnect 2 antenna2cables.

Important: Antennacables and connectors aredelicate. If the shorter ofthe two antenna cables is

damaged, you will need toreplace rear housing.

Hold AirPort card by3edges and pull it outof the slot.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort Cable 1332009-11-24

First Steps


Tools

ESD wrist strap•

AirPort Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort Cable 1342009-11-24

Removal

Disconnect cable1from AirPort carrierboard.

Disconnect cable (10)2from top center oflogic board.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort Carrier Board 1352009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•AirPort Card•

Tools


AirPort Carrier Board



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort Carrier Board 1362009-11-24

Removal


Disconnect at black2ribbon cable.

Observe how DC3power cable routesunderneath AirPort

carrier board,between the twoscrew posts.

Reassembly Note:Although screw holescan line up with postswhen board is rotated180 degrees from correctposition, board shouldbe installed with cableconnector on the right.





iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — LED Backlight Board 1382009-11-24

Removal


Lift up board, ip over,

2 and disconnect powerconnector.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Power Supply 1392009-11-24

First Steps


Warning: HIGH VOLTAGE:Use extreme cautionwhen working aroundthe power supply, whichcontains a high-voltagecapacitor that may remaincharged for severalminutes even whencomputer is unplugged.

Never touch leads ontop side of power supply,especially those nearwarning sign.

Tools


Power Supply



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Power Supply 1402009-11-24

Removal

Remove T10 screws: 1(1) 922-6850, short (S)

(1) 922-9243, long (L)

(2) 922-9244, machine(M)

Reassembly Note: Installself-tapping screws on leftside (short on top, longon bottom) and machinescrews on right side.

Lift up, ip over and

2 disconnect 2 cables.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Backlight Pressure Wall 1412009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Power Supply•

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Backlight Pressure Wall



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Backlight Pressure Wall 1422009-11-24

Removal

Lift pressure wall o1posts in rear housing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Power Supply Pressure Wall 1432009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Power Supply•

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Power Supply Pressure Wall



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Power Supply Pressure Wall 1442009-11-24

Removal

Lift pressure wall o1posts in rear housing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive 1452009-11-24

First Steps


Tools


Hard Drive




Removal


Disconnect 2 cables:2HD power cable•HD data cable •

Leave small HD tempsensor cable attached.

Slide hard drive up3slightly to lift pins outof 2 rubber grommetsin mechanism.

Disconnect HD sensor4cable from top oflogic board.

Important: Do notdisconnect HD sensorcable from harddrive. Each drivemanufacturer hasa dierent type of

sensor cable, whichis provided with areplacement drive.




Reassembly

Replacement Note:1If installing a newhard drive, transferthe following:hard drive bracket•(2) T10 screws•922-9136

(2) T10 screw pins •922-7001

Note:2 Each hard drivevendor has a uniquesensor cable. Do notmix and match tempsensor cables.

Important:3 Wheninstalling a WesternDigital drive:orient drive with•circuit board facingup (as shown);connect temp sensor•cable to hard drivepins as shown,leaving 2 left pinsunconnected.

If sensor cable isinstalled incorrectly,hard drive fan will runat full speed.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive Sensor Cable 1482009-11-24

First Steps


Note: Each hard drivemanufacturer has adierent type of sensorcable, which is includedwith a replacement drive.

If replacing sensor cableonly, be sure to ordercorrect cable for drivemanufacturer.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Hard Drive Sensor Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive Sensor Cable 1492009-11-24

Removal

Disconnect cable1from hard drive andlogic board.

Note: Do not reusetemp sensor cable. Anew sensor cable isincluded with eachreplacement drive.

Each hard drivemanufacturer has aunique sensor cable.

Reassembly

Important:1 Wheninstalling a WesternDigital drive:orient drive with•circuit board facingup (as shown);connect temp sensor•cable to hard drivepins as shown,leaving 2 left pinsunconnected.

If sensor cable isinstalled incorrectly,hard drive fan will runat full speed.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Bluetooth Cable 1502009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Power Supply•Power Supply Pressure•

WallHard Drive•

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Bluetooth Cable




Removal

Disconnect cable1from Bluetooth board.

Disconnect cable (#5)2from top center of

logic board.




Peel up foil tape3securing cable to rear

housing.

Observe cable routing4for reassembly. Referto photograph inInternal Views section.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Camera Cable 1532009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Power Supply•Power Supply Pressure•

WallHard Drive•Camera•

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Camera Cable




Removal

Disconnect cable1from camera.

Disconnect cable (#6)2from top center oflogic board.




Peel up foil tape3securing cable to rear

housing.




iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive 1562009-11-24

First Steps


Important: Whenservicing optical drive,handle it by edges only.Pressing elsewhere ondrive could damageinternal mechanism.

Tools

ESD wrist strap• Torx T10 screwdriver•Black stick •

Optical Drive




Removal


Disconnect temp

2 sensor cable fromconnector on lowerright side of logicboard.




Lift optical drive3

slightly and wiggleoptical drive datacable away fromoptical drive. A blackstick may be helpful.

Pull optical drive away4from slot opening inrear housing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive Sensor Cable 1592009-11-24

First Steps


Note: A replacementoptical drive will include anew sensor cable.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Optical Drive Sensor Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive Sensor Cable 1602009-11-24

Removal

Peel up foam gasket1to release sensor endof cable.

Disconnect cable2from logic board.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive Fan 1612009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Optical Drive•

Tools


Optical Drive Fan



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive Fan 1622009-11-24

Removal

Remove T10 screw: 1(1) 922-9236

Lift fan up and2disconnect cable from

logic board.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — SD Board 1632009-11-24

First Steps


Tools

ESD wrist strap• Torx T8 screwdriver•Black stick •

SD Board



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — SD Board 1642009-11-24

Removal


Using a black stick,2gently pry SD boardup and out of rearhousing.

Disconnect cable.3



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — SD Cable 1652009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Optical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

SD Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — SD Cable 1662009-11-24

Removal

Disconnect cable1from SD board andlogic board.

Peel up foil holding2cable to rear housing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Audio Cable 1672009-11-24

First Steps


Tools


Audio Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Audio Cable 1682009-11-24

Removal



Reassembly Note:A black stick can behelpful for guidingand aligning audioports with rearhousing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — IR Board & Cable 1692009-11-24

First Steps


Note: A new IR boardincludes a new cable. Thecable is not available as aseparate part.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

IR Board & Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — IR Board & Cable 1702009-11-24

Removal

Disconnect IR cable1from logic board.

With 2 ngers, wiggle2IR mounting bracketup and o mountingpost.

Reassembly Note:Pull the front housing outslightly to make room forIR mounting bracket to

slide onto IR mountingpost.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Logic Board 1712009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Power Supply•Backlight Pressure Wall•

Power Supply Pressure•WallOptical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•IR Board•

Note: Congurations withintegrated graphics do nothave the silver mountingbracket at upper rightwhich holds the video

card and its heatsink.

Tools


Logic Board




Removal

Remove T10 screws: 1(2) 922-6800, short (S) (only 1 if unit has novideo card bracket)

(2) 922-9237, medium20mm (M)

(3) 922-9243, long

24mm (L)

Disconnect cables2from left side of logicboard:power button (1)•CPU fan (2)•

Note: IR cable (3)should have alreadybeen disconnected.




Disconnect cables3from top center of

logic board:ambient temp (4)•Bluetooth (5)•camera (6)•hard drive sensor (7)•hard drive fan (8)•microphone (9)•AirPort (10)•audio cable (13)•right speaker (14)•left speaker (15)•

Note: LCD tempsensor (11) and LVDS(12) cables shouldhave already beendisconnected.

Disconnect SD cable4

(16) from right side oflogic board:

Note: Optical drivetemp (17) and opticaldrive fan (18) cablesshould have alreadybeen disconnected.




Tape cables back5so they do not

get trapped underlogic board duringreassembly.

Peel up foil holding6

copper square to rearhousing.




Lift logic board7up and out of rear

housing.

Careful! There are 3 cablesto disconnect from backside of logic board in nextstep on next page.

Note: Logic board may beeasier to lift out if RAM isremoved rst.

Note: Logic boardshown in this image hasintegrated graphics, andtherefore no video cardbracket.

Important: Always use

2 hands to support logicboard and heatsink.Handling board incorrectlycould ex board anddamage chips and circuits.Never handle board byheatsink or metal frame.




On back side of logic8board, disconnect

hard drive data cable(19), optical drive datacable (20), and DCpower cable (21).

Reassembly Note: Observe how optical drivedata cable routes aroundcopper pipe on logicboard.

If this cable is not correctlyrouted before reinstallinglogic board, it may bedicult to properly seatoptical drive in rearhousing later.




Replacement

If installing a newreplacement logic board,note 4 things:

Verify that tamper1indicator labels onfront and back ofheatsink assembly areintact. If labels havebeen removed ortampered with, logicboard is not eligible

for exchange.

Transfer RAM memory2from old logic boardto new logic board.

Apply new Ethernet3ID label (included inbox with new logicboard) to bottom ofstand.

Use the4 Blank BoardSerializer tool toset computer’s serialnumber on new logicboard.

http://www.info.apple.com/discimages/






iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Video Card 1782009-11-24

First Steps


Power Supply Pressure•WallOptical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•IR Board•Logic Board•

Note: Video card attachesto back side of logicboard.

Note: Congurations withintegrated graphics donot have a video card.

Tools

ESD wrist strap• Torx T10 screwdriver• Torx T8 screwdriver•

Video Card



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Video Card 1792009-11-24

Removal

Remove T8 screws on1video card: (2) 922-4723

Remove T10 screw up2near heatsink: (1) 922-7971


(1) Lift up video card4and heatsink and(2) slide card out ofslot on logic board.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Battery 1802009-11-24

First Steps



Note: Battery is located onback side of logic board.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•Black stick •

Battery



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Battery 1812009-11-24

Removal

Use a black stick to1pry battery fromsocket on logic board.

Reassembly

Make sure battery1socket is open andfree of dust.

Press battery (922-28802) into socket withengraved markings (+side) facing up.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive Data Cable 1822009-11-24

First Steps



Note: Hard drive datacable attaches to backside of logic board.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Hard Drive Data Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive Data Cable 1832009-11-24

Removal

Disconnect data cable1from hard drive.

Disconnect hard drive2data cable (#19) fromback side of logicboard.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive Data Cable 1842009-11-24

First Steps



Note: Optical drive datacable attaches to backside of logic board.

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Optical Drive Data Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive Data Cable 1852009-11-24

Removal

Disconnect optical1drive data cable (#20)from back side oflogic board.

Reassembly Note: Observe how optical drive

data cable routes aroundcopper pipe on logicboard.

If this cable is not correctlyrouted before reinstallinglogic board, it may bedicult to properly seatoptical drive in rearhousing later.





iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — CPU Fan 1872009-11-24

First Steps



Tools


CPU Fan




Removal


Lift fan up and out of2rear housing.

Note guidepost3on fan that willt into bottom ofrear housing onreassembly.




Note routing of4ambient temp sensor

cable and left speakercable through clipson CPU fan.

Remove ambient5temp sensor and leftspeaker cables fromCPU fan.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Ambient Temp Sensor 1902009-11-24

First Steps


Power Supply Pressure•WallOptical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•IR Board•Logic Board•CPU Fan•

Tools

ESD wrist strap•

Ambient Temp Sensor



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Ambient Temp Sensor 1912009-11-24

Removal

Note routing of1ambient temp sensorcable through clipson CPU fan.

Remove ambient2temp sensor fromCPU fan.

Note routing of cable3and any tape securing

it to rear housing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Left Speaker 1922009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Optical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•

IR Board•Power Supply•Backlight Pressure Wall•Power Supply Pressure•WallLogic Board•CPU Fan•

Tools


Left Speaker



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Left Speaker 1932009-11-24

Removal

Remove T10 screw: 1(1) 922-9242

Remove tape securing2cable to rear housing.


Rotate speaker to the4right and lift out ofrear housing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Right Speaker 1942009-11-24

First Steps


Power Supply Pressure•WallOptical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•IR Board•Logic Board•Audio Cable•

Tools


Right Speaker



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Right Speaker 1952009-11-24

Removal

Remove T10 screw: 1(1) 922-9242

Note cable routing2through guide in rearhousing.

Rotate speaker to the3left and lift out of rear

housing.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive Fan 1962009-11-24

First Steps



Tools


Hard Drive Fan



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive Fan 1972009-11-24

Removal

Remove T10 screw: 1(1) 922-9236

Lift fan straight up2and o guideposts.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Mechanism Cover 1982009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Power Supply•Backlight Pressure Wall•Power Supply Pressure•

WallOptical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•IR Board•Logic Board•Hard Drive•Hard Drive Fan•

Tools


Mechanism Cover



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Mechanism Cover 1992009-11-24

Removal

Peel up foil tape.1

Remove T10 screws: 2(2) 922-9238 (same

screws used onmechanism)

(2) 922-6800 (smallerscrews closer to rearhousing vent)



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Stand 2002009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Optical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•IR Board•

Power Supply•Backlight Pressure Wall•Power Supply Pressure•WallLogic Board•Hard Drive•Hard Drive Fan•Mechanism Cover•

Tools


Stand



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Stand 2012009-11-24

Removal


Replacement Note:Reinstall furthest left andright screws rst and thenreinstall middle 5 screws.

Lift rear housing o2stand.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Mechanism 2022009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•LCD Panel•Power Supply•Backlight Pressure Wall•Power Supply Pressure•

WallOptical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•IR Board•Logic Board•Hard Drive•Hard Drive Fan•Mechanism Cover•Stand•

Tools


Mechanism



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Mechanism 2032009-11-24

Removal


Peel down foil on2mechanism.

Replacement Note: Mechanism upper right

corner tucks under opticaldrive pressure wall.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Microphone Cable 2042009-11-24

First Steps

Microphone cable is partof rear housing and is notavailable as a separatepart.

If microphone cable needs

to be replaced, follow rearhousing procedure.

Microphone Cable



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Rear Housing 2052009-11-24

First Steps

Remove:Glass Panel•Camera•LCD Panel•Bluetooth Board•AirPort Cable•

AirPort Carrier Board•LED Backlight Board•Power Supply•Hard Drive•Bluetooth Cable•Camera Cable•Optical Drive•Optical Drive Fan•SD Board•SD Cable•Audio Cable•

IR Board & Cable•Logic Board•DC Power Cable•CPU Fan•Ambient Temp Sensor•Left Speaker•Right Speaker•Hard Drive Fan•Mechanism Cover•Stand•Mechanism•

Rear Housing

With all other modules removed, rear housing is the remaining assembly.

A new rear housing includes the following parts, which are also available separately:Bluetooth & AirPort antennas along top of rear housing•pressure wall between LED Backlight Board and Power Supply•pressure wall between Power Supply and Hard Drive•

A new rear housing also includes the following parts, which are NOT available separately:

AirPort antenna in silver circle behind Apple logo on back of computer•microphone and cable•power button and cable•AC inlet•



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Take Apart — Rear Housing 2062009-11-24

Important: Handling rearhousing part incorrectly

could ex aluminum andcause alignment issues.

Always handle rearhousing with 2 hands inthe lower left and rightcorners.

Never carry rear housingwith a single hand, or byholding the aluminum“chin” (where Apple logo

appears on front).





ViewsiMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009)



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Views — Exploded Views 2082009-11-24

Exploded Views

iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009), Part 1











iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Views — Screw Chart 2112009-11-24

Screw Chart

Note: Screws are not to scale.

922-9246 T10

LCD panel (8)

922-9239 T10

Camera (2)

922-4723 T8

Bluetooth antenna (2), AirPortantenna (2), video card (2)

922-9247 T8

Bluetooth board (1)

922-8579 T6

AirPort card (1)

922-6850 T10

AirPort carrier board (2), LEDbacklight board (2), Powersupply (1), Hard drive (2),Optical drive (4), AC inlet (3)

922-9244 T10

Power supply, machine (2)

922-9243 T10

Power supply, long (1),Logic board, long 24mm (3)

922-9241 T8

SD board (1)

922-9136

T10

Hard drive clip to HDD (2)

922-7001

T10

Hard drive pins (2)

922-9245

T10

Audio cable (2)



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Views — Screw Chart 2122009-11-24

922-9236 T10

Optical fan (1), CPU fan (2),Hard drive fan (1)

922-6800 T10

Logic board, short (1-2), Mechanism cover, small (2)

922-9237 T10

Logic board, medium 20mm(2)

922-7971 T10

Video card bracket (1)

922-9242 T10

Right speaker (1),Left speaker (1)

922-9238 T10

Mechanism cover (2),Mechanism (6)

922-8209 T10

Stand (7)



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Views — External Views 2132009-11-24

External Views

Front View




Rear View




I/O Ports

Headphone-out/optical digital audio-out1.Audio-in/optical digital audio-in2.(4) USB 2.03.FireWire 8004.Mini DisplayPort5.Gigabit Ethernet6.



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Views — Internal Views 2162009-11-24

Internal Views

Photo of Components below LCD



iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009) Views — Internal Views 2172009-11-24

Photo of Components below Logic Board



Logic Board, Front Side

Date post:	07-Aug-2018
Category:	Documents
Upload:	peerapatkaewvirat
View:	212 times
Download:	0 times

Technical Manual Imac21 Inch Late09

Documents