Basic Mac troubleshooting procedure
This is the basic troubleshooting procedure that I recommend when first dealing with a Macintosh computer that's not working correctly.
Start the Macintosh with the CD or Disk Tools diskette that came with computer and run the Apple Disk First Aid tool.
Run a diagnostic program such as Norton Disk Doctor or TechTool Pro.
Rebuild the desktop (see the Apple article: Rebuilding the Desktop (outside this site))
Zapping the PRAM
Zapping the PRAM (Parameter RAM) resets the PRAM settings back to their default values. Resetting the PRAM may be helpful if your computer is having startup problems, or other miscellaneous problems. For more information on what is stored in the PRAM settings, view the following Apple article:
Macintosh: How to Reset PRAM and NVRAM (outside this site)
To reset the PRAM, do the following:
Step1: Shut down the computer
Locate the following keys on the keyboard: Command, Option, P, and R. You will need to use these keys in the following next step.
Step 2: Turn on the computer
Press and hold the Command-Option-P-R keys. Press this key combination before the Mac gray screen appears.
Hold the keys down until the computer restarts and you hear the startup sound for the second time.
Release the keys. All done!
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Basic Macintosh Troubleshooting - South Australia
