Ultimate Guide: How to Reset PRAM and SMC on Older macOS Laptops
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on resetting PRAM and SMC on older macOS laptops. If you’re experiencing performance issues, glitches, or strange behavior on your Mac, resetting the PRAM (Parameter RAM) and SMC (System Management Controller) can often resolve these issues. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of resetting PRAM and SMC on older macOS laptops, including why and when you should perform these resets.
What is PRAM and SMC?
PRAM and SMC are essential components of older macOS laptops that store important system information and settings. PRAM stores information related to display settings, sound volume, time zone, startup disk selection, and more. On the other hand, SMC controls various hardware functions such as power management, battery management, thermal management, and system performance. Resetting PRAM and SMC can help resolve issues related to these settings and configurations.
When to Reset PRAM and SMC?
It’s recommended to reset PRAM and SMC on your older macOS laptop if you’re experiencing any of the following issues:
- Mac not booting up properly
- Display issues such as flickering or resolution problems
- Unexpected shutdowns or restarts
- Keyboard or trackpad not responding correctly
- Battery not charging or draining quickly
If you encounter any of these issues, resetting PRAM and SMC can often restore your Mac to normal functionality.
How to Reset PRAM on Older macOS Laptops
Follow these steps to reset PRAM on your older macOS laptop:
- Shut down your Mac.
- Press the power button and immediately hold down the Option, Command, P, and R keys simultaneously.
- Keep holding the keys for about 20 seconds until you hear the startup sound for the second time.
- Release the keys and let your Mac boot up normally.
How to Reset SMC on Older macOS Laptops
Here’s how you can reset the SMC on your older macOS laptop:
- Shut down your Mac.
- Connect the power adapter to your Mac.
- Press and hold the Shift, Control, Option, and Power buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds.
- Release the keys and turn on your Mac by pressing the Power button.
- Your SMC has been successfully reset.
Conclusion
Resetting PRAM and SMC on older macOS laptops can be a simple yet effective solution to various system issues. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you can troubleshoot common problems and improve the overall performance of your Mac. Remember to reset PRAM and SMC only when necessary and always back up your important data before performing these resets. We hope this guide has been helpful in resolving any issues you may be facing with your older macOS laptop.
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