Apple Technician Guide: Mac Mini (Late 2009) and Mac Mini Server (Late 2009)

 Apple Technician Guide
Mac mini (Late 2009)

Mac mini (Late 2009) and Mac mini Server (Late 2009)
2009-10-27
 Apple Inc.
© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Under the copyright laws, this document may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the
written consent of Apple.
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate. Apple
is not responsible for printing or clerical errors.
Apple
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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.
Contents
Manual Updates 7
Apple Technician Guide introduced 20 October 2009 7
Basics
Overview 10
Features Late 2009 Configurations 10
Product Configurations 10
System Serial Number Location 11
Power Supply Serial Number Location 12
Troubleshooting
General Troubleshooting 14
Update System Software 14
Apple Diagnostics 14
Wireless Troubleshooting 14
Troubleshooting Theory 14
Hardware vs. Software 14
Block Diagram 15
Common Reset Procedures 16
Symptom Charts 18
Startup and Power 18
No Power, Dead Unit 18
Won’t Start Up 20
Intermittent Shutdown 22
Kernel Panic, System Crashes 24
No Video 26
Corrupted Video 27
Burnt Smell/Odor 29
Noise, Hum, Vibration 31
Uncategorized Symptoms 34
Communications 35
AirPort/Bluetooth Issues 35
AirPort/Bluetooth Card Kernel Panic 38
Ethernet Port/Device Issue 39
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair 41
Wireless Input Device Loses Connection 43
Mass Storage 46
Hard Drive Not Recognized 46
Hard Drive Read/Write Error 48
Hard Drive Noisy 49
Uncategorized Symptom- Hard Drive 52
Optical Drive Not Recognized 54
Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Eject Media 55
Optical Drive Read/Write Error 57
Optical Drive Not Performing to Specifications 58
Optical Drive Noisy 59
Input/Output Devices 62
Apple Remote Inoperable 62
Audio: Built-in Speaker Has Distorted Sound 64
Audio: Built-in Speaker Has No Audio 65
FireWire Devices Not Recognized 67
USB Devices Not Recognized 69
Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly 71
Keyboard: Specific Keys Do Not Respond 73
Wired Keyboard/Mouse Not Recognized 73
Mechanical 76
Noise/Hum/Vibration 76
System Runs Hot 78
Physical Damage 79
Take Apart
General Information 81
General Tools 81
Reassembly Steps 81
Screw Sizes 81
Logic Board EMI Clips 82
Top Housing 83
Removal 84
Reassembly 85
Top Housing, Server (Late 2009) 86

Removal 87
Reassembly 88
Internal Frame 89
Removal 90
Reassembly 93
Antennas 95
Removal 96
Reassembly 98
Memory 100
Audio Board 102
Removal 103
Reassembly 105
AirPort/Bluetooth Combo Card 106

IR Board and Cable 108
IR Board and Cable (Late 2009) 111
Hard Drive Carrier (Late 2009) 114
Hard Drive, Lower 116
Hard Drive, Upper (Late 2009) 119
Removal 120
Reassembly 120
Optical Drive 121

Fan 124
Interconnect Board 127
Interconnect Board (Late 2009) 129
Battery 131
Speaker 133
Logic Board 136
Removal 137
Reassembly 140
Bottom Housing 141
Views
Exploded View 143
Screw Chart 144
Internal Views 145
Front View 145
Side View 1 145
Side View 2 146
Mac mini w/Optical 146
Mac mini Server w/Dual Hard Drives 147
Port View 148
Manual Updates
Apple Technician Guide introduced 20 October 2009

Take Apart:
New parts specific to the Late 2009 configurations:
• Top Housing, IR Board, Hard Drive Carrier, Hard Drive (Upper), Interconnect Board
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Basics — Manual Updates 7

2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Basics — Manual Updates 8
Basics

Overview
This manual covers two Mac mini products developed in Late 2009:
• Mac mini (Late 2009), shown on left
• Mac mini Server (Late 2009), shown on right
Features Late 2009 Configurations

• Processor: 2.26GHz Intel Core 2 (Better), 2.53 GHz Intel Core 2 (Best), and 2.53 GHz Intel Core
2 (Server)
• NVDIA GeForce 9400M graphics
• Memory: 2GB (Better), 4GB (Best), 4GB (Server)
• Hard drives: 160GB (Better), 320GB (Best), dual 500GB SATA (Server)
• Mac OS X Snow Leopard
Product Configurations
To confirm the configuration from the Apple menu, choose About This Mac. The processor
listing will show the speed of the processor followed by the processor type.
For product configurations, refer to Applecare Tech Specs: http://support.apple.com/specs/
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Basics — Overview 10

System Serial Number Location
The product serial number and Ethernet ID are located on the bottom housing.

Power Supply Serial Number Location
1. Locate the power supply.
2. Look closely into the opening on the end of the power supply. The serial number is located
on the inside cavity of the power supply, where the plug inserts into the power supply.

Troubleshooting

General Troubleshooting
Update System Software
Important: Whenever possible before beginning troubleshooting, ensure the latest software
and firmware updates have been applied.
Apple Diagnostics
Run diagnostics to determine if any of the modules are malfunctioning.
• Mac mini (Late 2009): Apple Diagnostics: 3S133
• Mac mini Server (Late 2009): Apple Server Diagnostics: 3X106
• Apple Hardware Test: 3A150 (all models)
Wireless Troubleshooting
If you’re having issues with AirPort and wireless mouse or keyboard connectivity issues, refer to
the following Knowledge Base articles:
• Desktop computers: Troubleshooting wireless mouse and keyboard issues http://support.
apple.com/kb/TS3048
• AirPort and Bluetooth: Potential sources of interference http://support.apple.com/kb/
HT1365
• Apple Wireless Keyboard and Mouse: How to install batteries http://support.apple.com/kb/
HT3903
Troubleshooting Theory
For general information on troubleshooting theory, refer to:
http://service.info.apple.com/service_training/en/006/troubleshoot/index.php?page=intro
Hardware vs. Software

For information on how to isolate a hardware issue from a software issue, refer to the following
articles:
• Isolating issues in Mac OS X: http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1388?viewlocale=en_US
• Mac OS X: Troubleshooting installation and software updates: http://support.apple.com/
kb/TS1394
• Troubleshooting Mac OS X installation from CD or DVD: http://support.apple.com/kb/
HT2956>
For information on how to troubleshoot a software issue, refer to:

• Mac OS X: How to troubleshoot a software issue: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1199
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Apple Diagnostics 14

Block Diagram
Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Block Diagram 15

Common Reset Procedures
When a reset procedure is required for troubleshooting, follow the applicable steps:
Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)
To reset power management via the SMC chip:

1. Unplug all cables from computer, including power cord.
2. Wait at least 15 seconds. The SMC reset occurs automatically once the Mac mini has been
unplugged from AC power source for several seconds.
3. Plug power cord back in, making sure power button is not being pressed.
4. Reconnect keyboard and mouse to computer.
5. Press power button on back to start up computer.
Resetting the SMC means you will also need to reset the date and time (using the Date & Time
pane of System Preferences).
Resetting the Parameter RAM (PRAM)
To reset PRAM,
1. If the computer is on, turn it off.
2. Locate the following keys on the keyboard: Command, Option, P, and R. You will need to
hold these keys down simultaneously in Step 4.
Note: If the keyboard does not have an Option key, use the Alt key instead.
3. Turn on the computer.
4. Press and hold the Command-Option-P-R keys.
Important: You must press this key combination before the gray screen appears.
5. Hold the keys down until the computer restarts and you hear the startup sound for the
second time.
6. Release the keys.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Common Reset Procedures 16
Starting Up in Safe Mode
A Safe Boot is a special way to start Mac OS X when troubleshooting. To start up into Safe Mode
(Safe Boot),
1. Make sure the computer is shut down.
2. Press the power button.
3. Immediately after you hear the startup tone, press and hold the Shift key.
Note: The Shift key should be held as soon as possible after the startup tone but not
before.
4. Release the Shift key when you see the screen with the gray Apple and progress indicator
(looks like a spinning gear). During startup, ”Safe Boot” appears on the Mac OS X startup
screen. To leave Safe Mode, restart the computer normally, without holding down any keys
during startup.
For more information:
http://www.apple.com/support
HT1564—What is Safe Boot, Safe Mode? <http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564>
TS1884—Safe Boot take longer than normal startup <http://support.apple.com/kb/

TS1884>
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Common Reset Procedures 17
Symptom Charts
Follow the steps in the order indicated below. If an action resolves the issue, retest the system
to verify.
Note: A compilation of Quick Check tables is available at:
http://service.info.apple.com/QRS/en/quickreference.pdf
Startup and Power
No Power, Dead Unit

Unlikely cause: speakers
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
No Power, Dead Unit 1. Verify power source.

• No power 2. Verify power cable.
• No LED
3. Listen closely for signs of activity from system
• No fan spin
including: rotating fans, hard drive or optical drive
• No startup chime activity, startup chime, etc. If there is activity then
• No image on external display go to the ‘Startup and Power Issues’ symptom
• No hard drive or optical drive flow.
activity
• Caps Lock LED on wired
keyboard doesn’t light when
pressed.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Startup and Power 18
Deep Dive
Unlikely cause: speakers
Check Result Action Code
1. Power ON system. Verify if Yes The symptom is powering

there is any indication that the up. Jump to Won’t Start Up
system has powered up (fan symptom flow.
rotation, hard drive or optical
drive noise, backlight turns on). No Go to step 2.
2. Disconnect AC power from Yes It is possible for the power

adapter for 1 minute, and adapter to trip. After problem
reconnect. Does the system is identified, determine if the
power on when power ON adapter continues to trip.
button is pressed?. Replace as needed.
Code may be a P01 (if adapter
is replaced)
No Go to step 3
3. Does the unit power on with Yes Bad power adapter, replace P01
known good power adapter? and retest.
No Go to step 4.
4. Remove drive internal frame Yes Go to Won’t Start Up P16

assembly SDRAM, and AirPort/ symptom flow step 3
Bluetooth card. Connect power
adapter. When the ON button is
No Go to step 5.
pressed, does the LED light?
5. Inspect power ON button for Yes Bad power switch, replace X14
damage, disconnect power ON bottom housing.
cable from logic board, and
short pins on connector. Does No Go to step 6
the front LED power on?
6. Disconnect LED, remove logic Yes Bottom Housing causing an X13

board from bottom housing. issue with board, examine for
Place the logic board on a defects or replace.
clean non-metallic surface.
Reconnect LED without No Replace logic board and M01
mounting in housing, Short retest.
the power ON pins. Does the
LED light?.
Won’t Start Up
Quick Check
Won’t Start Up 1. Isolate OS by starting up from original install

• No startup chime media for the computer, the same make and
• Error tones during startup. model computer in Target Disk Mode, or
compatible known-good OS on an external drive.
• Grey screen with fan noise, or
Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are available
other noise. when booted from the Install disk.
• Will not progress beyond
2. Reset SMC and PRAM to clear any stored,
Apple logo or spinning gear.
corrupted information.
3. Start up in Safe Mode by holding the shift key
down during startup to load only required kernel
extensions and disable all startup and login
items. See KBase article
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564
4. If system generates error tones there may be an
issue with the SDRAM. See KBase article
5. Identifying when in the startup process the
computer hangs can help isolate the issue.
See KBase article
for information on the Macintosh startup
sequence, error codes and symbols used.
Deep Dive
1. Boot the computer to Apple Yes Run the extended tests

Hardware Test on the Install and proceed with results. If
DVD. Does the computer boot AHT passes or boots with a
up to this volume? memory error, go to step 2.
No Go to step 2.
2. Remove the installed SDRAM, Yes SDRAM issue. Replace SDRAM. X02
and test with known-good Issue resolved.
SDRAM. Does the computer
startup properly now? No Go to step 3.
3. Remove the coin battery on Yes Issue resolved by logic board M20
the logic board, and leave out reset. Measure DC voltage
for approximately 1 minute. on the battery touching the
Then reinstall the battery. This battery with the red probe,
will reset the logic board. Does and grounding with the black
the computer startup properly probe. If voltage is 2.7v or less,
now? replace the battery. See KBase
article http://support.apple.
com/kb/HT3250 for details
on using a digital multi-meter.
No Go to step 4.
4. Disconnect the drive carrier Yes Go to Step 5

assembly and power on system.
With video only connected to
the board, is there a gray screen No Replace logic board.. M02
with a flashing folder?
5. Attempt to boot the system Yes Go to Step 6.

with a known good Firewire
boot drive. Does it boot?
No Replace the logic board. M02
6. Connect the interconnect Yes Go to step 7

board to the logic board. Is
there a gray boot screen with a
flashing folder? No Replace the interconnect
board.
7. Remove the hard drives (one at Yes Go to step 8

a time) from the internal frame
assembly, install the internal
frame. Does the system boot No If the optical drive in not
(other drive may be an optical recognized, go to Optical
drive or second hard drive)? Drive not recognized.
If the other hard drive in not
recognized, go to Hard Drive
Not Recognized
8. Install hard drive and optical Yes Possible connection issue.

drive into the internal frame Retest to verify.
assembly, Does the system
boot the Install DVD, and see
the hard drive? No Go to Hard Drive Not
Recognized.
Intermittent Shutdown
Quick Check
Intermittent Shutdown 1. Isolate OS by starting up from original Install

• Powers off during startup. media for the computer, the same make and
• Powers off during desktop use. model computer in Target Disk Mode, or
• Computer restarts
spontaneously. when booted from the Install disk.
• Powers off when waking from
sleep.
4. Open System Preferences > Energy Saver >
Schedule and make sure that a ‘Shut Down’ event
is not scheduled.
5. Make sure that power cord is securely attached to
the back of the computer, and is not hindered by
a desk or other furniture.
6. Plug the computer directly into an AC outlet to
test whether a surge protector, outlet strip, or UPS
is causing the issue.
Deep Dive
1. Verify improper shutdown Yes Determine if user caused

by opening the system.log improper shutdown. Use
located in /var/log. Filter the known-good AC power cord
log for “shutdown cause”. Entries and AC outlet. Go to step 2.
of value “0” or a negative
value indicate an improper No Revisit Quick Check examples
shutdown. Did you find entries for possible software issues.
of improper shutdown? Check if user is running
other automating software
that may be shutting down
system. Verify issue and jump
to appropriate symptom
flow. No repair needed under
current symptom flow.
2. With known-good AC power Yes Go to step 3.
cord and AC outlet, does the
unit continue to shutdown? No Replace adapter P02
3. Disconnect the hard drive Yes Go to step 4.

power cable from the hard
drive and start the machine
from the Install DVD, the same
make and model computer No Possible bad software or hard
in Target Disk Mode, or drive. Go to Hard Drive Not
compatible known-good OS Recognized symptom flow.
on an external drive. Does
the computer continue to
shutdown? If yes, disconnect
the hard drive from the
interconnect board, boot the
system from a known good
DVD or external drive with a
known compatible OS.
Does the computer continue to

shutdown?
4. Check temperature sensor and Yes Retest. Go to step 1 if problem

run Apple Hardware Test (AHT) continues.
or Apple Server Diagnostics.
Does it pass?
No Go to step 5.
5. Replace or check affected Yes Retest. Go to step 1 if problem

sensor or assembly. Does AHT continues.
pass?
No Logic board issue. Replace M08
logic board.
Kernel Panic, System Crashes
Quick Check
Kernel Panic, System Crashes 1. Isolate OS by starting up system from original

• Kernel Panic on startup or Install media for the computer, the same make
desktop use. and model computer in Target Disk Mode, or
• System freeze during use.
• System freeze upon wake from when booted from the Install disk.
sleep.
2. Ensure that all software and firmware updates
for the computer have been installed to take
advantage of any available bug fixes.
5. Check the panic.log, located /Library/Logs/
Panicreporter, for information in the backtrace
that may give clues about the kernel panic.
6. For more information on kernel panics refer to
KBase article
Deep Dive
1. Boot the machine to Apple Yes Run the extended tests and
Hardware Test on the Install proceed with results. If AHT
DVD, OR, boot Apple Server passes or boots with a kernel
diagnostics by holding down panic, go to step 2.
the “D” key. Does the computer
boot up to this volume? No Go to step 2.
2. Remove all peripheral devices Yes Add peripheral devices one at

including the keyboard and a time until the kernel panic
mouse. Does computer start repeats. Replace the device
without kernel panic? causing the issue.
No Go to step 3.
3. Use known-good SDRAM in Yes Install user’s SDRAM and test. X01
the system. Does the computer If kernel panic repeats, replace
start without kernel panic now? SDRAM. Verify that the correct
SDRAM is being used.
No Go to step 4.
4. Remove AirPort /Bluetooth card Yes Go to AirPort Card Kernel

and test. Does the computer Panic symptom flow.
start without kernel panic now?
No Go to step 5.
5. Disconnect the Hard Drive from Yes Go to Hard Drive Not

internal frame assembly and Recognized symptom flow.
startup to the Install DVD on
the optical drive, or an external
No Go to step 6
volume. Does the computer
6. Disconnect the Audio Board Yes Replace the Audio Board X99
and test. Does the computer
No Go to step 7.
7. Disconnect the Optical Drive Yes Go to Optical Drive not

from the internal frame recognized symptom flow
assembly and test. Does the
computer start without kernel No Replace logic board.
panic now?
No Video
Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive, speakers, camera, microphone
Quick Check
No Video 1. Check display connections

• No image. 2. Check connections for pin damage.
3. Reset SMC.
4. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive: No Video
1. Verify boot chime present and Yes Power ON self test OK. Boot
fans running when system sequence started.
powered ON. (Reset SMC and Go to step 2.
clear PRAM if necessary for
proper boot up.) No Go to Won’t Start Up
symptom flow.
2. Connect supported external Yes Video present. Verify system

display via mini display port. functionality and return to
Verify whether image appears user or jump to appropriate
on external display when troubleshooting flow.
system is booted.
No Go to step 3.
3. Connect supported external Yes External display detected by

display via mini-DVI port. Verify system. Video circuitry on
whether image appears on logic board functional. Return
external display when system is to customer or jump to
booted. appropriate troubleshooting
flow.
No Replace logic board. Retest. M03
Corrupted Video
Unlikely cause: Adapter, hard drive, optical drive, fan, or speaker.
Quick Check
Corrupted Video 1. Set System Preferences/Display LCD panel to

• Text and graphics appear fuzzy native resolution. Non-native resolutions are
• Image corrupted unable to produce optimal clarity.
2. Make sure all relevant software updates have
been applied. Graphics driver updates may be
included with software updates.
3. When the issue occurs take a screenshot of the
display (Command-Shift-3). View the screen shot
file on another known-good computer. If the
image corruption can be seen in the screenshot
then the issue is with the video drivers, software,
or video/logic board. If the issue cannot be seen
in the screenshot then the display and cable
should be tested further.
4. Boot from install DVD or another known-good
volume to determine whether a potential
software/driver issue exists.
5. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive
1. Boot from Install DVD and Yes Go to step 2.

verify whether issue is still
visible. No Issue likely caused by
software or driver issue.
Troubleshoot for software
issues. Make sure all software
updates have been installed.
2. Verify whether issue is visible Yes Issue is isolated to one type of

on an external display attached display port. Go to step 3.
to the DisplayPort or Mini-
DVI. Does the issue appear on
“other” display port? No Go to step 5.
3. Inspect display connector and Yes Replace Logic board. M04
display cables. Reseat. Does the Go to step 4.
issue persist?
No Issue likely caused by poor
connection. Return computer
to user.
4. Verify whether issue is still Yes Go to step 5.

present with replacement logic
board installed.
No Issue resolved with
replacement logic board
installed. Return system to
customer.
5. Test with another similar Yes Replace logic board, may be M04
display with same display incompatible with the display.
connection to determine if Go to step 4.
issue persists?.
No Issue resolved with
replacement logic board.
Return system to customer.
Burnt Smell/Odor
Unlikely cause: speakers, microphone, housing
Quick Check
Burnt Smell/Odor 1. Verify source of smell/odor is emanating from the

• Burning smell system.
• Unusual odor 2. Refer to KBase articles:
http://support.apple.com/kb/TA22044 or
http://support.apple.com/kb/TA22045.
3. Disconnect all third party devices and confirm
whether the odor is being generated by the
device.
4. Inspect air intake and air outlets for obstructions.
To prevent overheating make sure there
is sufficient clearance to allow air to flow
unobstructed into and out of the system.
5. Verify whether system is functional.
6. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive
1. Verify whether the source of Yes Replace affected module(s). P08

the odor can be identified Go to step 2
by visually inspecting each
module and it’s associated No Unable to locate source of
cables for signs of burned or odor. Go to step 3.
damaged components, smoke
residue, burned traces, or
melted or damaged wiring,
2. Disconnect all 3rd party devices Yes Power down system

and cables. Power ON system immediately. Go to step 3.
and verify whether smoke or
strong odor returns. No System functions correctly.
Verify system functionality
with 3rd party devices and
cables and return system
to user if problem has been
resolved. Consult 3rd party
companies as needed for
issues with those products.
3. Can the source of the odor be Yes Replace affect module(s) and P08
located using nose? retest system.
No Contact Apple for assistance

if you feel that there is a
possible safety issue with the
computer that has not been
resolved in the previous steps.
Noise, Hum, Vibration
Unlikely cause: enclosure, cables.
Quick Check
Noise/Hum/Vibration 1. Verify that the vents on the bottom and

• Buzzing noise back of the system are free of dust and other
• Rattling noise obstructions that might inhibit proper airflow
through the system.
• Ticking noise
• Squeaking 2. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor.
Determine whether an application or process is
consuming a high percentage of CPU bandwidth.
CPU intensive applications can cause the fans
to run fast in order to maintain the proper
internal system temperatures. If needed, quit the
application or restart the system to resolve the
issue.
3. Eject optical media from optical drive. Out of
balance optical media can generate audible
noise. To resolve try a different brand of media.
For additional information jump to ‘ Optical Drive
Noisy’ symptom flow.Disconnect all third party
devices and confirm whether the odor is being
generated by the device.
4. Play sound sample at loud and soft volume
levels to determine if the noise is caused by the
speaker or the amplifier circuit. Jump to ‘Distorted
sound from built-in speakers symptom flow for
additional information.
5. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive
1. Run Apple Hardware Test or Yes Suspect possible fan or

Apple Server Diagnostics. Was sensor error. Check fan
an error generated? cable connection to the
interconnect board.
No Go to step 2.
2. Does noise sound like fan Yes Reset SMC by disconnecting

running faster than expected? power cord for ~15 seconds
then retest. If issue continues
go to step 3.
No Go to step 5.
3. Does the noise change when Yes Suspect issue with optical
the optical drive is being drive or the media being
accessed or media is inserted used. Jump to ‘Optical Drive
or ejected? Noisy’ symptom flow for
No Go to step 4.
4. Mute the system volume. Verify Yes Go to step 5.

whether the issue still occurs.
No Suspect issue with speaker
or audio circuitry. Jump
to ‘Distorted Sound
From Internal Speakers’
symptom flow for additional
information.
5. Remove fan and rotate the Yes Go to step 6.

blades. Verify that fan blades
spin smoothly without
interference from fan housing. No Replace fan. P04
6. Reinstall fan while carefully Yes Noise issue resolved. Suspect P04
ensuring that the cable is issue cause by interference
routed properly and there’s from wiring or possible
no interference with the fan distortion or fan housing
blades. After reassembling when installed in system.
system verify that the noise Proper reassembly resolved
issue is resolved. issue.
No Go to step 7.
7. Disconnect these major Yes Identify, inspect, and if P04

modules/parts (e.g: hard drive, necessary replace the part
optical drive, fan) one at a time that caused the noise to
then power ON the system. disappear when it was
Determine if noise issue goes disconnected from the
away when one of the modules system.
is disconnected.
No All parts verified. Verify that
the correct symptom flow is
being used.
Uncategorized Symptoms
Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptoms 1. Make sure system is plugged into a known-good

• Unable to locate appropriate outlet.
symptom code. 2. Listen for boot chime, fan, optical drive, or hard
drive noise which indicates system is powering
up. If noise is heard, go to Won’t Start Up
symptom flow. If no noise is heard go to No
Power symptom flow.
3. Attempt to boot from Install DVD to isolate
possible software issues.
Deep Dive
1. Verify whether existing Yes Jump to appropriate

symptom code applies to the symptom code flow.
issue reported by the user.
No Document reported failure N99
and send feedback to
smfeedback2@apple.com
stating that a suitable
symptom code wasn’t found.
Provide as much detail as
possible.
Communications
AirPort/Bluetooth Issues
Note: If one antenna fails, all 3 antennas must be replaced because they are paired. Order kit
076-1337.
Quick Check
AirPort/Bluetooth Issues 1. Verify that AirPort or Bluetooth is turned ON and

• Unable to join networks or pair for AirPort issues make sure that a network is
devices selected.
• Card not available 2. For AirPort, check if the wireless access point
• Intermittent device or requires special connection and encryption
connection dropouts protocols.
• Limited wireless range 3. Check for nearby sources of interference such as
microwave ovens or cordless phones. See article
<http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1365>
4. Check the number of users trying to use AirPort
in the area for possible network congestion
(available bandwidth).
5. Isolate potential OS issues by starting up from the
original Install media for the computer, the same
make and model computer in Target Disk Mode,
or compatible known good OS on an external
drive. Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are
available when booted from the Install disk.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Communications 35

Deep Dive
1. Open System Profiler. AirPort Yes Install all software updates

is listed under Network, while for AirPort/Bluetooth. AirPort,
Bluetooth is listed under USB. Is go to step 3. Bluetooth, go to
AirPort/Bluetooth recognized? step 4
No Remove and reinstall the M11

AirPort/Bluetooth card and
retest. Examine the flexible
AirPort/Bluetooth cable for
damage, and reseat. If cable
is damaged, go to step 7.
If still unrecognized, replace
the AirPort/Bluetooth card. Go
to step 2
2. Ensure that Antenna cables Yes AirPort, go to step 3.

are connected properly and Bluetooth, go to step 4
not damaged, and all software
updates available for AirPort/ No Issue resolved.
Bluetooth have been installed.
Do connection issues persist?
3. Create a computer to computer Yes Network or channel issue.

network with another Go to step 5
Macintosh computer using
AirPort. See article <http:// No Double check any password M11
docs.info.apple.com/article. required. Try connecting
html?path=AirPort/5.0/ another known good
en/ap2110.html>. Can you computer to the network.
connect successfully? If test computers connect,
replace the AirPort card. Go
to step 6
4. Make sure that your Bluetooth Yes Issue resolved.

device is in discoverable mode,
and that your computer is also
in discoverable mode. Can you No Replace the AirPort/Bluetooth M11
successfully and reliably pair a card. Go to step 6
device now?
5. Try connecting to a known Yes Troubleshoot local network.

good network that does not Possible password or MAC
require password or has MAC address filtering issue.
address filtering enabled. Can
you connect to a network No Replace the AirPort/Bluetooth M11
reliably now? card.
Go to step 6

6. With the AirPort/Bluetooth card Yes Issue resolved.
replaced and antenna cables
inspected for damage and
replaced if necessary, are the No Replace the logic board M11
connection issues resolved?
7. Replace the wireless flex cable, Yes Issue resolved.

and retest. Is Airport/Bluetooth
recognized?
No Go to step 2.

AirPort/Bluetooth Card Kernel Panic
Note: If one antenna fails, all 3 antennas must be replaced because they are paired. Order kit
076-1337.
Quick Check
AirPort/Bluetooth Card Kernel 1. Isolate OS by starting up from original Install

Panic media for the computer, the same make and
• Kernel Panic on startup model computer in Target Disk Mode, or
• Kernel Panic or freezing while compatible known good OS on an external drive.
AirPort and Bluetooth services are available when
attempting to connect to Wi-Fi
booted from the Install disk.
networks
• Kernel Panic while transferring 2. Ensure that all software and firmware updates for
the computer and AirPort been installed.
data on Wi-Fi networks
Deep Dive
1. Remove AirPort/Bluetooth card. Yes Reseat AirPort/Bluetooth

Does computer start without card and retest. If problem
kernel panic? continues replace AirPort
card. Go to step 2
No Possible logic board issue.

Go to Kernel Panic/System
crashes symptom.
2. With replacement AirPort/ Yes AirPort/Bluetooth card issue. N13

Bluetooth card installed, does Issue resolved.
computer start without kernel
panic? No Possible logic board issue.
Go to Kernel Panic/System
crashes symptom.

Ethernet Port/Device Issue
Unlikely cause: Adapter, hard drive, optical drive, fan
Quick Check
Ethernet Port/Device Issue 1. Check the ethernet cable for damage, try a
• No Ethernet device present known good Ethernet cable – CAT5 or better
• Unable to access network recommended for 100Mbps+ connections.
resources 2. Check Ethernet ports on the Mac and wall/switch
• Ethernet device shows no for dust, debris, damage or bent pins.
connection 3. Ensure distance from networking infrastructure is
• Ethernet device unable to an IP less than 300 feet/ 105 meters
address 4. Verify port, cable and network hardware with a
• Slow network performance known good system. Isolate firewall, MAC address
filtering or hardware access control devices
5. Isolate OS by starting up from original Install
media for the computer, the same make and
model computer in Target Disk Mode, or
compatible known good OS on an external drive.
Deep Dive
1. Visually inspect the ethernet Yes Go to step 2

port of the computer to ensure
that all pins will make physical
contact with the CAT5 Ethernet No Pins are damaged, bent flat or M24
cable missing. Replace logic board
2. Boot from original Install media. Yes Go to step 3

Verify Network Link status
active by using Network Utility No If same ethernet cable gives M10
under the “Info” tab. Is the Link an “Active” link status on
Status “Active”? a known good computer
of same make and model,
replace logic board

3. Connect the computer to Yes Ethernet communication
another Macintosh computer good. Go to step 4
using CAT5 ethernet cable.
Mac OS X 10.5 users see article No If same ethernet cable and M10
<http://docs.info.apple.com/ computer connects to a
article.html?path=Mac/10.5/ known good computer of
en/8429.html>. same make and model,
replace logic board
Mac OS X 10.6 users see article
<http://docs.info.apple.com/
article.html?path=Mac/10.6/
en/8429.html>.
Can you connect successfully?
4. Check for speed and duplex Yes Go to step 5

issues on the network. Open
System Preference > Network; No Change the speed and duplex
click the Advanced button, settings. See article <http://
then the Ethernet tab. Is the docs.info.apple.com/article.
speed and duplex reported html?path=Mac/10.5/
what is expected? en/8711.html>. Go to step 6
5. Check for MTU (Maximum Yes Go to step 6

Transmission Unit) issues.
See article <http://support. No Ethernet controller damaged. M10
apple.com/kb/HT2532>. Does Replace logic board.
changing the MTU settings on
the computer resolve the issue?
6. If changing the speed, Yes Check with ISP or Network

duplex or MTU settings Administrator concerning
allows connectivity, check speed, duplex and MTU
with another computer of settings.
same make and model. Does
the known good computer No Verify with known good OS. If M10
produce the same results? the issue persists, replace the
logic board.

Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair
Quick Check
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t 1. Remove and reinstall the batteries for the device.
Pair
2. Check that device is powering on.
• Can’t get system to recognize
the Bluetooth keyboard or 3. Use known-good batteries with the device.
mouse 4. Ensure that device is being used within range. 30
ft. for Bluetooth devices.
5. Ensure that the latest Software Updates have
been applied.
Deep Dive
1. Without any wired input Yes Bluetooth hardware is active.

devices connected, start the Go to step 4
computer. Does the computer
show the Bluetooth Mouse No Inspect and reseat AirPort/ X03
Setup assistant? Bluetooth flex cable to
AirPort/Bluetooth card.
Replace a damaged cable. Go
to step 2
2. Restart the machine without Yes Bluetooth hardware is active.

any wired input devices Go to step 4
attached. Does the computer
show the Bluetooth Mouse No Reseat the AirPort/Bluetooth
Setup assistant? card to the logic board. Go to
step 3
3. Restart the machine without Yes Bluetooth hardware is active.

any wired input devices Go to step 4
attached. Does the computer
show the Bluetooth Mouse No Replace the AirPort/Bluetooth M11
Setup assistant? card.
4. With a wireless mouse on, and Yes Check for stability. Go to step
in discoverable mode, can you 5
successfully pair the mouse
with the assistant? No Go to Wireless Device Loses
Connection symptom

5. With the wireless mouse Yes Issue resolved
paired, does the mouse stay
connected? No Inspect and reseat the X03
Bluetooth antenna cable.
Replace damaged antenna
cable or AirPort/Bluetooth
card if the antenna connector
is damaged. Go to step 6
6. With the wireless mouse Yes Antenna issue. Issue resolved.

paired, does the mouse stay
connected? No Go to Wireless Device Loses
Connection symptom

Wireless Input Device Loses Connection
Quick Check
Wireless Input Device Loses 1. Remove and reinstall the batteries for the device.
Connection
2. Check that device is powering on.
• Wireless keyboard, mouse, or
other wireless input device 3. Use known-good batteries with the device.
loses connection. 4. Ensure other devices pair and keep connection
without issue. If not, see AirPort/Bluetooth:
Defective Wireless Device symptom.
5. Ensure that device is being used within range, 30
feet for Bluetooth devices.
6. Ensure that the latest Software Updates have
been applied.
Deep Dive
1. Open System Preferences > Yes Device has been paired. Go to

Bluetooth. Paired items and step 2
their connection status are
shown. Is the device listed? No The device is not paired. Make
device discoverable and open
Bluetooth Setup Assistant. Go
to step 3
2. Make sure device is on. Yes Go to step 7

In System Preferences >
Bluetooth, select the device
and from the Action menu
(gear) choose “Connect”. No Delete pairing in System
Does the device connect Preferences. Go to step 3
successfully?
3. With the device on, run the Yes Go to step 7

Bluetooth Setup Assistant.
Can you successfully pair the No Restart the machine. Go to
device? step 4
4. With the device on, run the Yes Go to step 7

Bluetooth Setup Assistant.
Can you successfully pair the No Create a new Admin User. Go
device? to step 5

5. Log into new Admin User Yes User-based issue.
account. With the device Troubleshoot software on
on, run the Bluetooth Setup User account. No repair
Assistant. Can you successfully needed.
pair the device with the New
User? No Remove the following file: /
Library/Preferences/com.
apple.Bluetooth.plist Go to
step 6
6. Restart the computer, With the Yes Go to step 7

device on, run the Bluetooth
Setup Assistant. Can you No Go to AirPort/Bluetooth:
successfully pair the device? Defective Wireless Device
symptom
7. With the device paired and Yes Issue resolved

connected, is the device
connection stable if used No Check device documentation
normally? on standard length of
operation, and other
operational factors. Go to
step 8
8. Is the device performing to Yes Educate User. Issue resolved.

stated specifications?
No Replace device.

Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptoms 1. Verify System Preferences/Network settings

• Unable to locate appropriate are configured appropriately to support
symptom code. communication method.
2. For Ethernet connection issues verify that the
cable being used functions when used with
another known good system.
3. For wireless connection issues review user
environment to determine whether possible
interference from other 2.4GHz communications
devices might be contributing to issue.
Deep Dive

possible.

Mass Storage
Hard Drive Not Recognized

Unlikely cause: AC adapter, fan, speaker.
Quick Check
Drive Not Recognized (H01) 1. Use a known good mouse. A stuck mouse button
Drive No Boot (H02) will not allow boot.
• Flashing Question Mark 2. Boot from Install DVD or external drive. Verify
• Boots to Grey Screen S.M.A.R.T. status of drive using Disk Utility.
• Boots to Blue Screen
3. Repair disk using Disk Utility.
4. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS.
5. Use Target Disk Mode to attempt to mount
user’s hard drive on a known good computer. If
mounted, use Disk Utility on host computer for
Quick Checks 2, 3 and 4.
Deep Dive
1. Boot from Install DVD or Yes Go to step 2

external drive and run Disk
Utility. Verify that user hard No Go to step 5
drive is available for Disk Utility
to repair.
2. Run Disk Utility ‘Repair Disk’ Yes Go to step 3

function and verify that it
completes successfully. No Go to step 4
3. Reboot computer. Verify that Yes Data error Issue resolved. H07
system boots successfully and Return computer to user.
that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function
reports no errors. No Go to step 4.
4. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS Yes Go to step 8

using Install DVD or external
drive with an installer on it. No Go to step 5
Verify that installation process
completes.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mass Storage 46

5. Inspect hard drive, interconnect Yes Replace interconnect board. H04
board, and connectors for bent Go to step 8
pins, or other damage to the
cable.
No Go to step 6
6. Reseat interconnect board, Yes Go to step 8

hard drive and logic board
connections and verify whether No Replace interconnect board, H04
computer starts up go to step 8
7. Test with known good hard Yes Install user drive, go to step 9
drive. Verify that system boots
successfully and that Disk utility No Interconnect board verified
‘Verify’ function reports no or replaced and known good
errors. Hard drive installed, replace
logic board.
8. Reboot computer. Verify that Yes Issue resolved. Return system

system boots successfully and to user.
reports no errors. No Go to step 7
9. Reboot computer. Verify that Yes Issue resolved

system boots successfully and
that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function No Hard drive appears to be
reports no errors. defective. Go to step 10
10. Replace hard drive. Does drive Yes Issue resolved by replacing H05
format correctly with a GUID hard drive.
partition map and install Mac
OS without errors? No Interconnect board verified
or replaced and known good
Hard drive installed, replace
logic board..

Hard Drive Read/Write Error
Unlikely cause: LCD panel, power supply, fans, speakers, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Drive Read/Write Error (H03) 1. Boot from Install DVD or external drive. Verify
Drive Bad Sector/Defective (H05) S.M.A.R.T. status of drive using Disk Utility.
Drive Formatting Issues (H07)
2. Repair disk using Disk Utility.
• Cannot save documents
• Read/write error message 3. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS using Install DVD
or external drive.
• Hang when accessing or saving
data 4. Use Target Disk Mode to mount user’s hard drive
on a known good computer. Use Disk Utility on
host computer for Quick Checks 1 through 4.
Deep Dive

2. Reboot computer. Verify that Yes Data error Issue resolved. H07
system boots successfully and Return computer to user.

drive. Verify that installation No Go to step 4
process completes.
4. Inspect interconnect board Yes Replace interconnect board. H04

connector for bent pins, or Go to step 7
other damage to the board..
No Go to step 5
5. Reseat interconnect board, Yes Go to step 7

hard drive and logic board
connections and verify whether No Replace interconnect board, H04
computer starts up go to step 7

6. Test with known good hard Yes Install user drive, go to step 8
drive. Verify that system boots
successfully and that Disk utility No Interconnect board verified
‘Verify’ function reports no or replaced and known good
errors. Hard drive installed. Replace
logic board.
7. Reboot computer. Verify that Yes Issue resolved. Return system

system boots successfully and to user.
8. Reboot computer. Verify that Yes Issue resolved

system boots successfully and
that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function No Hard drive appears to be
reports no errors. defective Go to step 9
9. Replace user hard drive. Does Yes Issue resolved by replacing

drive format correctly with a hard drive.
GUID partition map and install
Mac OS without errors? No Interconnect board verified or
replaced and new hard drive
installed. Replace logic board.
Hard Drive Noisy

Unlikely cause: LCD panel, logic board, power supply, speakers, camera, microphone
Quick Check
Hard Drive Noisy (H06) 1. Start up from Install DVD. Verify S.M.A.R.T. status
• Noise during start up of drive using Disk Utility.
• Noise during operation 2. Repair disk using Disk Utility.
• Noise when drive is copying or
3. Determine if noise is comparable to another
saving data machine of the same model.

Deep Dive
1. Boot from Install DVD or Yes Go to step 2

external drive and run Disk
Utility. Verify that user hard No Go to H01 Drive not
drive is available for Disk Utility recognized/mount
to repair.

3. Re-start the computer. Verify Yes Go to step 6

whether the noise is still
present. No Data error issue resolved by H06
Disk Utility. Return system to
user.

drive. Verify that installation
process completes. Note: Make No Replace hard drive. Go to H06
sure data has been backed up step 5
before erasing hard drive.
5. With replacement hard drive Yes Go to step 6

installed reboot computer.
Verify whether noise is still
No Issue resolved by replacing
present.
hard drive.
6. Reboot computer. Verify Yes Replace hard drive. Go to

whether noise is still present. step 7.
No Reseat hard drive into internal H06

frame. Return system to user.
7. With hard drive removed, boot Yes Go to M18 fan failures/

from the Install DVD or external thermal issues..
drive and determine if the
noise is caused by the fan in No Go to step 8
the computer.

8. With hard drive removed and Yes Go to J04 Optical Drive Noisy.
no media in the optical drive,
boot from an external volume
and determine if the noise is
caused by media in the optical No Go to step 9.
drive.
9. With replacement hard drive Yes Customer hard drive noise

installed verify whether noise level is similar to a known
level is noticeably quieter than good one and does not
customer’s hard drive. require repair.
No Replace customer’s hard drive. H06

Return system to customer.

Uncategorized Symptom- Hard Drive
Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptom 1. Start up the computer holding down the “D” key
• Unable to locate appropriate on the keyboard to see if Apple Hardware Test on
symptom the hard drive will boot. If so, run the diagnostic
or Apple Server Diagnostics. This will tell you the
hard drive is working.
2. Try starting the system to Apple Hardware Test
on the Install DVD or Apple Server Diagnostics. If
so, run the diagnostic. This will tell you that the
optical drive is working.
3. Start the computer holding down the Option
key on the keyboard. If the Startup Manager
is recognizing internal hard drive and optical
drive (if Install DVD is in the optical drive) and
any external bootable drives connected to the
system, SATA connections and external ports are
communicating with the logic board.
4. Remove SDRAM and install Known Good SDRAM
and start system. This will verify the SDRAM is not
the cause of a startup issue.
5. Using Disk Utility on Install DVD or external drive
to verify SMART status on the hard drive and
repair directory structure. This will tell you that
the optical drive is working, and will verify your
hard drive status and directory.
6. Boot from another computer of same type in
Target Disk Mode, or from an external FireWire
drive with compatible Mac OS. This will tell you
that your logic board is communicating properly
with a compatible Mac OS.

Deep Dive-Uncategorized Symptoms
1. Verify whether an existing Yes Jump to appropriate

symptom chart applies to the symptom chart flow.
issue reported by the customer.
No Document reported failure
symptom and send feedback
to smfeedback2@apple
symptom code could not be
found.

Optical Drive Not Recognized
(For systems with optical drives)
Quick Check
Drive Not Recognized/Mount 1. Use Apple System Profiler Serial-ATA section to

(J05) see if the optical drive appears.
• Discs inject and eject, but do 2. Apple System Profiler Serial-ATA section will show
not appear in Finder any media inserted.
3. Check Finder Preferences and make sure “CD’s,
DVD’s and iPods” is checked under “Show these
items on the desktop” in the General section.
4. Check both CD and DVD media. If only one type
of media is recognized, there is a laser issue.
Replace optical drive (J03).
Deep Dive
1. Is the optical drive listed in the Yes Go to step 2

Serial-ATA section of the Apple
System Profiler? No Go to step 3
2. Test both CD and DVD media. Yes Go to step 6

Can drive read both CD media
and DVD media? No Drive has a laser issue. J03
Replace the optical drive. If
both types media fail, check
Finder Preferences then go to
step 3
3. Reseat interconnect board at Yes Go to step 6

logic board and optical drive.
Do both types of media read
No Go to step 4
reliably now?
4. Connect known good optical Yes Interconnect board and port

drive to interconnect board. Do on logic board good. Go to
both types of media reliably step 5
read now?
No Replace interconnect board
and test (X03). If issue persists,
replace logic board (M19). Go
to step 6

5. Connect original optical drive Yes Interconnect board issue. X03
to known good interconnect Replace Interconnect board .
board. Do both types of media Go to step 6
reliably read now?
No Replace optical drive. J03
6. Test read compatible known Yes Issue resolved.

good CD and DVD media
(Install DVD). Verify media is
recognized and reads reliably.
Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Eject Media
Quick Check
Drive Won’t Accept Media (J01) 1. Use Apple System Profiler Serial - ATA section to
Drive Won’t Eject Media (J02) see if the optical drive appears. If not see Optical
• Cannot insert a disc into the Drive not recognized (J05).
drive 2. Restart computer and hold down mouse button
• Cannot eject a disc placed into or keyboard eject key to cycle optical drive.
the drive 3. Inspect optical drive slot for obstructions
Deep Dive
1. Verify that optical drive is listed Yes Optical drive communicating

in the System Profiler device with logic board. Go to step 5.
tree for Serial-ATA devices.
No Logic board not
communicating with optical
drive. Go to step 2
2. Verify all connection between Yes Go to step 5.

logic board, interconnect board,
and optical drive are secure.
Visually inspect connectors for
any debris, damage or bent No Replace interconnect board X03
pins. Verify that the optical and retest. If connections
drive is listed in the System are good and with no visible
Profiler device tree. board damage, go to step 3

3. Connect known good optical Yes Go to step 4.
drive to interconnect board.
Verify that known good optical
drive is listed in the System No Suspect interconnect board.
Profiler device tree. Go to step 7
4. With known good optical drive Yes Known good optical drive J03
installed, test for media inject/ resolved inject/eject issue.
eject. Verify drive accepts and Replace optical drive. (J06)
ejects known good media.
No Go to step 7
5. Inspect optical drive slot during Yes Go to step 6

disc insert/ eject. Verify that
discs can be inserted easily. No Replace damaged optical J03
drive.. (J06)
6. With known good optical Yes Media issue. No repair

media (Install disc), test for necessary. Suggest user
media inject/eject. Does drive investigate use of different
accept and eject known good media.
media?
No Go to step 3
7. Replace interconnect board Yes Issue resolved. Interconnect X03

with known good optical board damaged
media (Install disc), test for
media inject/eject. Does drive No Interconnect board verified M19
accept and eject known good or replaced, and optical drive
media? verified or replaced. Replace
logic board and retest.

Optical Drive Read/Write Error
Quick Check
Drive Read/Write Data Error (J03) 1. Test optical media in another drive of the same
• Errors when writing optical type in the same type of computer to rule out
media. media issue.
• Errors when reading optical 2. Check with known good discs like the Install discs
media. that came with the computer.
• Hang when accessing or 3. For write issues, check with known good media
preparing to write data. that performs well in another computer optical
drive of the same type.
of media is producing errors, there is a laser issue.
Replace optical drive (J03).
Deep Dive
1. Is media free to spin without Yes Go to step 2

optical drive scraping edge or
surface of media? No Replace optical drive J05

both types media fail, go to
step 3
3. Reseat interconnect board Yes Go to step 6

connections at logic board and
optical drive. Do both types of No Go to step 4
media read reliably now?
4. Connect known good optical Yes Interconnect board on logic

drive to interconnect board. Do board good. Go to step 5
both types of media reliably
read now?
No Interconnect board connector M19
on logic board is bad. Replace
logic board.

to known good interconnect Replace interconnect board.
reliably read now?
6. Test write data to compatible Yes Issue resolved.

CD and DVD media. Verify
burned media is recognized No Replace optical drive. J03
and reads reliably.
Optical Drive Not Performing to Specifications
Quick Check
Optical Drive Not Performing to 1. Test optical media in another drive of the same
Specifications (J07) type in same type of computer to rule out media
• Read or write speeds slower issue.
than expected 2. For Write issues, check with Known Good media
that performs well in another computer and drive
of the same type.
of media is producing errors, you have a laser
issue. Replace the optical drive (J05)
Deep Dive

both types media fail, go to
step 3
2. Reseat Interconnect board to Yes Go to step 6

logic board and optical drive.
Do both types of media read
No Go to step 4
reliably now?

3. Connect known good optical Yes Interconnect board
drive to Interconnect board. Do connections on logic board
both types of media reliably good. Go to step 5
read now?
No Replace Interconnect board
and test (X03). If issue persists,
replace logic board (M19). Go
to step 6

to known good interconnect Replace interconnect board.
reliably read now?
5. Test write data to compatible Yes Issue resolved.

CD and DVD media. Verify
burned media is recognized No Go to step 7 J03
and reads reliably.
6. The balance of some media Yes Media issue. No repair

may not perform at higher necessary.
speeds supported by the drive.
Does slowing the requested
burn speed allow the discs to No Replace optical drive. J07
write reliably?
Optical Drive Noisy
Quick Check
Optical Drive Noisy (J04) 1. Test optical media in another drive of the same
• Noise during boot type in same type of machine to rule out media
• Noise during operation issue.
• Noise when drive is copying or 2. Check with Known Good Discs like the Install
writing data disks that came with the computer.
3. Check to see if noise occurs without media in the
drive. If so, check hard drive (H06) and fan (M18)
caused noise.

Deep Dive
1. Optical drive should perform Yes Drive mechanism damaged. J05

a single reset sequence. Is Replace optical drive.
optical drive constantly seeking
or cycling eject mechanism No Go to step 2
without an optical disc
installed??
2. Verify media does not Yes Go to step 3

exceed maximum thickness
specification <http://support.
No Drive mechanism damaged. J05
apple.com/kb/HT2446>
Replace optical drive.
Using known good CD and
DVD media, does media spin
without optical drive scraping
edge or surface of media?
3. Noise when spinning discs Yes Go to step 4

before mounting on the
desktop and reading data is
normal. Disc spin should cease No Go to step 5
30 seconds after mounting on
the desktop. Is the noise related
to disc spin and is it louder
than another computer of the
same type and drive?
4. Remove the optical drive and Yes Drive mechanism damaged. J04
reseat the drive into it’s drive Replace optical drive.
bracket. Reinstall the drive and
verify if the drive is still noisy. No Optical drive not mounted
correctly. Issue resolved
5. Noise when ejecting media Yes Drive mechanism damaged. J04

is normal. Eject known good Replace optical drive.
media and listen to noises.
Is the noise related to eject No Noise not related to optical
activity and is it louder than drive. Check for hard drive
another computer of the same noise (H06) or fan noise (M18)
type and drive?.


possible.

Input/Output Devices
Apple Remote Inoperable

Unlikely cause: Adapter, fan, optical drive, hard drive
Quick Check
Apple Remote Inoperable 1. Make sure you’re using the Apple Remote within
• Apple Remote doesn’t bring up 30 ft of the computer, and have an unobstructed
Front Row line-of-sight to the computer.
• Apple Remote doesn’t control 2. Make sure you’re pointing the lens end of
iTunes the Apple Remote directly at the front of the
• Apple Remote doesn’t control computer.
computer volume 3. Make sure “Disable remote control infrared
receiver” checkbox in the Security
4. Test with a known good USB cable when dealing
with a printer or external USB drive, to isolate a
USB cable issue.
5. Ensure that all available Software Updates have
been applied to the computer for access to the
latest bug fixes.
Deep Dive
1. Open System Preferences > Yes Click the “Unpair” button to

Security. Is “Unpair” available in disable possible pairing with
this preference pane? another Apple Remote. Go to
step 3
No Possible IR board issue. Go to

step 4
2. With a replacement battery, can Yes Battery issue. Issue resolved X05
you see a white flashing light
from the Apple Remote in the No Apple Remote defective. X04
video preview window now? Replace the Apple Remote.
3. After clicking “Unpair”, does the Yes Pairing issue. Issue resolved
computer now respond to the
Apple Remote? No Possible IR board issue. Go to
step 4
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Input/Output Devices 62

4. Open the Apple System Profiler. Yes IR Receiver reporting on USB
Selecting USB, do you see “IR bus. Check for lens block. Go
Receiver” listed? to step 5
No Inspect and reseat IR cable to

IR board. Replace a damaged
IR cable. Go step 6
5. After clearing lens, does the Yes Lens blocked. Issue resolved.
computer now respond to the
Apple Remote? No Lens damaged or inoperable. X13
Replace the IR Receiver or top
housing.
6. After reseating or replacing the Yes IR cable issue. Issue resolved X03
IR cable, does the computer
now respond to the Apple No IR board failure. Replace the IR
Remote? Receiver.

Audio: Built-in Speaker Has Distorted Sound
Quick Check
Audio: Built-in Speakers Have 1. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/
Distorted Sound Output options. Verify that the sound output
• No audio from one or both option is set to system’s internal speakers and
speakers. that the balance control is set to the center
position.
• Audio from speakers distorted
2. Obtain known good high quality sound file
or use iTunes music store sound samples to
evaluate sound quality. Verify suspect sound files
on another system to determine whether the
distortion is caused by the system or the sound
file.
3. Set volume control to mid-range. Overdriving the
built-in speakers can cause distortion.
Deep Dive
1. Launch System Preferences and Yes Speaker and amplifier

select Sound/Output options. circuitry OK. Go to step 3.
Set speaker balance to the
middle, then play a sound file. No Distortion detected in
Verify that sound is generated speaker. Go to step 2
by the speaker and that the
sound quality is acceptable.
2. Connect external speakers or Yes Suspect bad speaker. Go to

headphones to Headphone step 3.
Out port then play a sound
file. Verify that sound quality is
acceptable.
No Audio CODEC or amplifier M09
issue suspected. Replace
audio board. Retest.
3. Inspect speaker cones and Yes Replace damaged speaker. M09

speaker connection cable for Retest.
damage. Does the speaker have
visible damage. No Go to step 4.

4. Install known good speaker Yes Speaker bad. Replace speaker M09
into location where distorted and retest.
sound was heard. Verify that
sound quality improves. No Suspect speaker amplifier. M09
Replace audio board.
Audio: Built-in Speaker Has No Audio
Quick Check
Audio: Built-in Speakers Have No 1. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/
Audio Output options. Verify that the sound output
• No audio from speaker. option is set to system’s internal speaker.
• Audio from speaker distorted 2. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/
Output options. Verify that the ‘Output Volume’
setting is set above the minimum level and that
the ‘mute’ option is not selected.
3. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/
Output options. . Verify that ‘Balance’ is set to
middle position
4. Reseat PRAM.
5. Go to Deep Dive..
Deep Dive
1. Verify whether boot chime Yes Go to step 2

is present when system is
powered ON. Note: make sure No Audio board not detected by M09
audio output preferences are system. Reseat audio board,
not set to mute and volume is then retest. Replace audio
set to mid-range. board if problem persists.
2. Launch System Preferences and Yes Speaker and amplifier

select Sound/Output options. circuitry OK. Go to step 3.
Set speaker balance to the
middle, then play a sound file.
Verify that sound is generated No Go to step 6.
by the speaker and that the
sound quality is acceptable..

3. Verify whether customer Yes Issue no longer present.
reported audio issue has been Return system to customer.
resolved.
No Go to step 4.
4. Boot system from Install DVD or Yes Go to step 5.

another known good bootable
volume. Verify whether issue No Known good boot volume
still occurs. works OK. Troubleshoot
for software issue. Isolate
whether issue is application
specific or whether possible
operating system conflict.
Make sure user data backed
up before removing or
reinstalling software.
5. Connect external speakers Yes Audio board, internal speaker,

to Headphone Out port and external headphone port
and set System Preferences functioning correctly. Return
Sound/Output to external system to user.
speakers, then play a sound
file. Verify that sound quality is
acceptable. No Go to step 6
6. Disconnect and carefully Yes Replace damaged part(s) M09

inspect flexible cable and then retest. Return to step
connectors connecting audio 1 if problem continues to
board to logic board for verify whether symptom has
damage such as bent pins or changed.
pinched/cut wires.
No Replace audio board then M09
retest.

FireWire Devices Not Recognized
Quick Check
FireWire Devices Not Recognized 1. For external FireWire drives, make sure any
• FireWire external drive not external power source is plugged in and
recognized operating to isolate a power issue with the
device.
• FireWire printer not recognized
2. Test with a known good FireWire device to isolate
a failed peripheral issue.
3. Test with a known good FireWire cable to isolate
a FireWire cable issue.
latest bug fixes.
Deep Dive
1. Unplug all FireWire devices Yes Issue resolved

from the computer. Start the
computer and reset PRAM. No Possible logic board failure.
Reconnect the FireWire device Go to step 2
in question. Is the FireWire
device recognized?
2. Use a known good FireWire Yes Try the FireWire device in

cable with a known good question with a known good
FireWire device (another computer of the same make
Mac in FireWire Target Disk and model. Go to step 3
mode is good). Is this device
recognized? No FireWire not recognized. M12
Replace main logic board.
3. Is the FireWire device Yes Test the FireWire device with

recognized on a known good a known good cable on user’s
computer of the same make computer. Go to step 4
and model?
No FireWire device may need
additional power. Use a
powered FireWire hub. Go to
step 5

4. Is the FireWire device Yes FireWire cable issue. Issue
recognized with a known good resolved.
FireWire cable on the user’s
computer? No FireWire device may need
additional power. Use a
powered FireWire hub. If the
issue persists, check for any
firmware updates for the
FireWire device. Go to step 5
5. Using a Powered FireWire Yes Device recognized. Required

hub, and having installed any additional power from hub or
software or firmware update update. Issue resolved.
for the device, is the FireWire
device recognized now? No Device may require additional
software, or there may be a
conflict in the Mac OS. Test in
New User. Go to step 5
6. Is the FireWire device Yes Software Issue. Troubleshoot

recognized with a New User? software on User account.
Issue resolved.
No Apply all Mac OS updates. If

the issue persists, replace the
FireWire device.

USB Devices Not Recognized
Quick Check
USB Devices Not Recognized 1. For printers and external USB drives, make sure
• USB wired keyboard/mouse not any external power source is plugged in and
recognized operating to isolate a power issue with the
device.
• USB external drive not
recognized 2. The system has 5 USB ports on the rear of the
• USB printer not recognized computer. Make sure to try each port to isolate a
particular port malfunction.
3. Test with a known good wired keyboard or
mouse to isolate a failed peripheral issue.
4. Test with a known good USB cable when dealing
with a printer or external USB drive, to isolate a
USB cable issue.
latest bug fixes.
Deep Dive
1. Unplug all USB devices from Yes Test in all USB ports to ensure
the computer except for the all USB ports working as
keyboard and mouse. Start expected. Replace logic board
the computer and reset PRAM. for any port failures.
Are the keyboard and mouse
recognized? No Possible logic board failure.
Go to step 2
2. Did Bluetooth Mouse Setup Yes Bluetooth detected via

assistant launch after startup? Internal USB, but external USB
devices not recognized. Go to
step 3
No Bluetooth not recognized

via internal USB. Disconnect
mouse and keyboard. Go to
step 4

3. Are known good mouse and Yes Test original mouse and
keyboard recognized? keyboard. Replace if still not
recognized. Go to step 5
No External USB ports not

functioning. Replace logic
board.
4. With no USB devices Yes Bluetooth detected via

connected, restart the Internal USB. Go to step 3
computer. Did Bluetooth
Mouse Setup assistant launch No Bluetooth not recognized M15
after startup? via internal USB. Internal and
external USB not functioning.
Replace logic board.
5. With known good mouse and Yes Device recognized. Test in all
keyboard working, test other USB ports to ensure all USB
USB peripheral in question ports working as expected.
(USB external drive or printer, Replace logic board for any
etc.). Is the device recognized port failures.
via Apple System Profiler under
USB? No Device may require more
power than supplied by USB
ports. Try powered USB hub.
Go to step 6
6. Does powered USB hub resolve Yes Test device on another

issue? computer of the same
make and model. If another
computer does not require
a powered USB hub to allow
functionality, replace the logic
board
No Test device on another

computer of the same
make and model. If another
computer does not recognize
the device, replace the device

Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly
Quick Check
Wired Keyboard Does Not 1. The system has 5 USB ports on the rear of the
Function Properly computer. Make sure to try each port to isolate a
• Some or all keys on the particular port malfunction.
keyboard don’t work 2. Test with a known good wired keyboard to
• Eject key or Caps Lock key isolate a failed peripheral issue.
doesn’t seem to work 3. Test the keyboard on another Mac. If it works
• Some keys don’t work as here, you may have bad USB port if the keyboard
expected doesn’t work at all, or a software issue if the
keyboard is working but not as expected.
latest bug fixes.
Deep Dive
1. Do any of the keys on the Yes Go to step 2

keyboard work?
No Go to USB Port Doesn’t
Recognize Devices symptom
2. Is the Caps Lock working as Yes Go to step 3

expected?
No Go to Keyboard: Specific keys
do not respond symptom
3. Is the media Eject key working Yes Go to step 4

as expected?
No To prevent accidentally
ejecting media, Mac OS X
adds a slight delay to the
Media Eject key before it
takes effect. Go to step 5
4. Open System Preferences > Yes The key combination to speak

Speech. Is “Speak selected text cannot be used for any
text when the key is pressed” other purpose. Either disable,
enabled? or change to a more rare
key combination (including
Shift, Command, Option and
Control).
No Go to step 6 M15

5. With optical media in the drive, Yes Media eject key delay. No
hold the Media Eject key. Does repair necessary.
the disc eject normally and the
eject symbol appear? No Go to Optical Drive Won’t
Accept/Reject Media
6. Open System Preferences > Yes With “Slow Keys” on, you need
Universal Access > Keyboard. Is to press a key for a longer
“Slow Keys” enabled? period of time for it to be
recognized.
No Go to step 7
7. Open System Preferences > Yes With “Mouse Keys” on, you
Universal Access > Keyboard. Is cannot use the Numeric
“Mouse Keys” enabled? Keypad to enter numbers. It
will move the mouse pointer
instead.
No Go to step 8
8. Open System Preferences > Yes The keys are being

International > Input Menu. recognized. Go to step 9
Check “Keyboard Viewer”.
Then, from the Input Menu in
the Menu Bar (flag), choose
No The keys are not being K01
“Show Keyboard Viewer”. When
recognized. Replace the
typing on the keys that are not
keyboard.
responding, do they show in
the Keyboard Viewer?
9. Open TextEdit or another text Yes Application specific issue.

application and try typing Troubleshoot the application.
something using the non-
responding keys. Do they type No Test another User to isolate a
in another application? User account issue. If the issue
persists, reinstall Mac OS X
from the Install DVD.

Keyboard: Specific Keys Do Not Respond
Quick Check
Keyboard: Specific Keys Do Not 1. If wireless keyboard is being used verify that it is
Respond properly paired with the system. Go to ‘Wireless
• One or more keys do not Input Device Doesn’t Pair’ symptom flow to
respond when pressed resolve pairing issues.
• Key sticks 2. The caps lock key has a built-in delay to reduce
• Keycap missing accidental activation and must be held for
approximately ½ second for it to be activated.
Refer to http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1578
for additional information.
3. Inspect the keyboard for signs of liquid spills or
other contamination. Apple’s warranty does not
cover accidental damage.
4. If the keycap is loose attempt to reattach it.
5. For other keyboard issues jump to the
appropriate symptom flow.
Wired Keyboard/Mouse Not Recognized
Quick Check
Wired Keyboard/Mouse Not 1. The Mac mini has 5 USB ports on the rear of the
Recognized computer. Make sure to try each port to isolate a
• USB wired keyboard/mouse not particular port malfunction.
recognized when plugged in. 2. Test with a known good wired keyboard or
• Mighty Mouse scroll ball not mouse to isolate a failed peripheral issue. .
working or not working as 3. Ensure that all available Software Updates have
expected. been applied to the computer for access to the
• Mighty Mouse buttons not latest bug fixes.
working or not working as
expected.

Deep Dive
1. Does the computer recognize Yes Test in all USB ports to ensure
the keyboard or mouse when all USB ports working as
plugged into the USB ports? expected. Replace logic board
for any rear port failures.
Replace keyboard for any
keyboard USB port failures.
Go to step 2
No Go to USB Port Doesn’t

Recognize Devices symptom
2. Is keyboard working as Yes Go to step 3

expected?
No Go to Wired Keyboard Does
Not Work Properly symptom
3. Does the Mighty Mouse have Yes See KBase article <http://
an issue with the scroll ball? support.apple.com/kb/
HT1537> for steps to correct
No Go to step 4
4. Doe the Mighty Mouse have an Yes See KBase article <http://
issue with the buttons? support.apple.com/kb/
HT1581> for steps to
determine expected behavior.
Go to step 7
No Go to step 5
5. Does the Mighty Mouse have Yes Try using the mouse on
an issue with tracking? another surface. Non-
reflective, opaque surfaces
without repetitive patterns
work best. The surface should
be clean but not shiny. Go to
step 6
No Go to step 7
6. When used on another surface Yes Surface issue. Issue resolved.

does the mouse track correctly?
No Go to step 7
7. See KBase article <http:// Yes Issue resolved.

support.apple.com/kb/
HT1581> to further determine
expected behavior. Did this No Replace the Mighty Mouse K99
article resolve the issue?

Quick Check
Uncategorized Symptoms 1. Verify that external I/O device (where applicable)

• Unable to locate appropriate works on another system.
symptom code. 2. For third party I/O devices make sure necessary
software is installed and up to date, and that the
device is supported with the user’s system.
3. Go to Deep Dive.
Deep Dive

possible.

Mechanical
Noise/Hum/Vibration
Quick Check
Noise/Hum/Vibration 1. Verify that the vents on the bottom system are

• Buzzing noise free of dust and other obstructions that might
• Rattling noise inhibit proper airflow through the system. .
• Ticking noise 2. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor.
• Squeaking noise Determine whether an application or process is
issue.
3. Play sound sample at loud and soft volume
levels to determine if the noise is caused by the
speaker or the amplifier circuit. Jump to ‘Distorted
sound from built-in speaker’ symptom flow for
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mechanical 76

Deep Dive
1. Run Apple Hardware Test or Yes Check fan connection to

Apple Server Diagnostics. Was interconnect board and retest.
an error generated?
No Go to step 2.
2. Does noise sound like fan is Yes Reset SMC by disconnecting

running faster than expected? power cord for ~15 seconds
then retest. If issue continues
go to step 3.
No Go to step 5.
3. Does the noise change when Yes Suspect issue with optical
the optical drive is being drive or the media being
accessed or media is inserted used. Jump to ‘Optical Drive
or ejected? Noisy symptom flow for
No Go to step 4.
4. Mute the system volume. Verify Yes Go to step 5.

whether the issue still occurs.
No Suspect issue with speaker
or audio amplifier circuitry.
Go to ‘Distorted Sound
From Internal Speakers’
symptom flow for additional
information.
5. Open unit. Remove fan and Yes Fan reseated, blades rotate,
rotate the blades. Verify that fan noise gone.
blades spin smoothly without
interference from fan housing. No Replace affected fan. P04

System Runs Hot
Quick Check
System Runs Hot 1. Verify that the vents on the bottom are free of
• System feels very hot dust and other obstructions that might inhibit
• Fan not operating proper airflow through the system.
• Fan running fast 2. Verify that the computer is not exposed to
• System is noisy direct sunlight which may heat up the enclosure
making it feel hot to the touch.
3. Verify the computer is not running hotter than
expected for normal operation.
4. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor.
Determine whether an application or process is
issue.
5. Reset SMC by unplugging power cord for ~15
seconds.
Deep Dive
1. Run Apple Hardware Test or Yes Suspect possible fan or

Apple Server Diagnostics. Was sensor error. . Check fan
an error generated? cable connection to the
interconnect board.
No Go to step 2.
2. Does noise sound like one or Yes Fan running fast. Reset SMC
more fans running faster than by disconnecting power cord
expected? for ~15 seconds then retest. If
issue continues go to step 3.
No Go to step 3.

3. Remove fan and rotate the Yes Fan reseated, blades rotate,
blades. Verify that fan blades noise gone.
spin smoothly without
interference from fan housing No Replace affected fan. P06
and that the fan blades are all
intact.
Physical Damage
Quick Check
Physical Damage 1. Determine whether damage caused by user

• Stripped screw/head environment, accidental damage, or abuse. If
• Stripped screw boss applicable inform the user that Apple does not
warrant damage caused by accident, abuse,
• Dent or scratch to chassis
misuse, flood, fire, earthquake, or other external
causes. For more information refer to: http://
www.apple.com/legal/warranty

possible.

 Service Source
Take Apart

General Information
General Tools
The following tools are required to service the computer:
• ESD wriststrap and mat
• Tweezers
• Jeweler’s #0 Phillips screwdriver
• Jeweler’s #1 Phillips screwdriver
• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• Black stick (922-5065), or other nonconductive nylon or plastic tool
• Needlenose pliers
• Soft cloth (to protect removed parts from scratches)
• Screw tray
• Putty knife (922-6761),1.5 inch (38 mm) to open the top case
Refer to the following Apple Knowledge Base article to purchase tools:
kBase #500200: Hand Tools for Desktop and Portable Repairs
Reassembly Steps
When there are no replacement steps listed, replace parts in the exact reverse order of the
Removal procedure.
Screw Sizes
All screw sizes shown are approximate and represent the total length of the screw.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — General Information 81

Logic Board EMI Clips
1 Be careful not to damage the EMI clips on the underside of the logic board. Place the board on
the antistatic foam when the board is not in a system.
2 Important: Return the logic board to Apple service in the correct logic board packaging and
with the antistatic foam protecting the EMI clips (shown in second photo).
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — General Information 82

Top Housing
First Steps
• Shut down the
computer.
• Place the computer on
a clean, flat surface.
Tools
• Putty knife (922-6761)
• ESD mat and wrist
strap
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Top Housing 83

Removal
1 Turn the computer

over.
2 Insert the tool

(0.25 inch / 6.35
millimeters) into the
gap.
3 Pry the tool away

from the computer.
Note: You will hear
little cracking sounds
as the latches release
and the bottom
separates from the
top housing
4 Repeat on other side.
5 Using your fingers,

push the I/O panel
upward. The cracking
sounds will continue
as you push the
I/O panel off the
top housing; this is
normal.

Reassembly
1 Align rear I/O panel

with top housing.
2 Make sure the white

latches are tucked
inside bottom
housing as you press
the top and bottom
together.
3 Squeeze until there

are no visible gaps.

Top Housing, Server (Late 2009)
First Steps
• Shut down the
computer.
• Place the computer on
a clean, flat surface.
Note: This optical-less

top housing is for the
dual hard drive server
configuration only.
Tools
• Putty knife (922-6761)
• ESD mat and wrist
strap
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Top Housing, Server (Late 2009) 86
Removal
1 Turn the computer

over.
2 Insert the tool

(0.25 inch / 6.35
millimeters) into the
gap.
3 Pry the tool away

from the computer.
Note: You will hear
little cracking sounds
as the latches release
and the bottom
separates from the
top housing
4 Repeat on other side.
5 Using your fingers,

push the I/O panel
upward. The cracking
sounds will continue
as you push the
I/O panel off the
top housing; this is
normal.
Reassembly
1 Align rear I/O panel

with top housing.
2 Make sure the white

latches are tucked
inside bottom
housing as you press
the top and bottom
together.
3 Squeeze until there

are no visible gaps.
Internal Frame
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Internal Frame 89

Removal
Note: Depending on
the configuration, the
internal frame will
either have an optical
drive or a second
hard drive installed
on the internal frame.
The internal frame
removal procedure is
the same for both.
1 Locate 3 antennas on
internal frame.
2 Squeeze black posts

together and pull
AirPort antenna board
straight up and off
the post.

3 Pull the 2 other
antennas straight up
and off the spring
posts.
Important: Leave
antennas connected
to the AirPort/
Bluetooth card unless
you are replacing
the antennas or the
AirPort/Bluetooth
card.
4 With a black stick,

disconnect the audio
flexible cable from
interconnect board.

5 Remove 4 internal
frame screws, located
in each corner:
• 3 (922-7325)
• 1 longer screw, near

power on LED (922-
7324)
6 Lift internal frame up

and off bottom
housing.
Important: Leave
antennas connected
to the AirPort/
you are replacing
the antennas or the
AirPort/Bluetooth
card.

Reassembly
1 Replace the internal

frame.
2 Route the 2 antennas

(on the side) so they
are out of the way of
the internal frame.
3 Route the AirPort

antenna up through
opening in internal
frame.
4 Tuck antenna into

cable channel on
internal frame.

5 Check that the power
button cable is not
pinched by the
internal frame.

Antennas
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
Important: If one antenna

fails, all 3 antennas must
be replaced because they
are paired. Order kit 076-
1352 for Mac mini (Late
2009) configurations.
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Antennas 95

Removal
1 Squeeze black posts

together and pull
AirPort antenna board
straight up and off
the post.
2 Rotate the computer

180 degrees.

3. Pull each antenna
straight up and off
the spring posts.
4 Remove internal
frame.
Important: Leave
antennas connected
to the AirPort/
you are replacing
the antenna or the
AirPort/Bluetooth
card.

5 On the AirPort/
Bluetooth card,
carefully disconnect
• red antenna from J3
• gray antenna from J2
• blue antenna
(Bluetooth) from J4
• flexible AirPort/
Bluetooth cable
WARNING: Be careful
not to damage the
antenna connectors
as it may induce
antenna or AirPort/
Bluetooth card
replacement.
6 Lift antennas out of

computer.
Reassembly
1 Route the antennas

so they aren’t pinched
when the internal
frame is replaced.

2 Route antenna up
through the frame
and into cable
channel on the
internal frame.

Memory
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Memory 100

Removal
1 Press the latches on

the DIMM socket
outward.
2 The DIMM will pop up

slightly.
3 Remove the DIMM

from the slot.
Replacement Note:
Press DIMM into
socket and press
downward until
DIMM clicks into
place.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Memory 101

Audio Board
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Audio Board 102
Removal
1 Disconnect audio
flex cable from
interconnect board.
2 Remove internal
frame.
Note: It’s possible to
remove the audio
board without
removing the internal
frame, but for visual
reference it has been
removed.
3 Remove 1 screw 922-

7325.
4 With a black stick or
your finger, pull back
on the metal tab to
release the board
from the bracket.
5 Carefully remove the

audio board from I/O
ports.
Reassembly
1 Position audio board

ports under metal
tabs on the bottom
housing.
2 Pull back on the metal

tab and seat the
audio board into the
ports on the bottom
housing.
3 Test the alignment

by inserting a
headphone connector
into the headphone
jack.
AirPort/Bluetooth Combo Card
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Important: Leave
antennas connected to
the AirPort/Bluetooth card
unless you are replacing
the antennas or the
AirPort/Bluetooth card.
Tools
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort/Bluetooth Combo Card 106
Removal
1 Remove 3 screws 922-

6680.
2 Disconnect the
orange flexible
Airport/Bluetooth
cable.
3 Lift the AirPort/

Bluetooth card out
of the computer with
antennas attached.
Important: Leave
antennas connected
to the AirPort/
you are replacing
the antennas or the
AirPort/Bluetooth
card.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — AirPort/Bluetooth Combo Card 107
IR Board and Cable
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — IR Board and Cable 108
Removal

8820.
2 Note the IR cable

routing within the
internal frame before
you disconnect
the cable from the
interconnect board.
3 Remove the IR cable

from the cable
channel.
4 Disconnect IR cable
from J211 on the
interconnect board.
IR Board and Cable (Late 2009)
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — IR Board and Cable (Late 2009) 111
Removal

8820.
2 Note the IR cable

routing within the
internal frame before
you disconnect
the cable from the
interconnect board.
3 Remove the IR cable

from the cable
channel.
4 Disconnect IR cable
(brown, gray, and
black cable) from J211
on the interconnect
board.
Hard Drive Carrier (Late 2009)
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Note: This carrier is used

on the dual hard drive
configuration only.
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive Carrier (Late 2009) 114
Removal
1 Remove 6 screws; 4
from the carrier and 2
from the interconnect
board.
• (4) 922-8822
• (2) 922-8820
2 Disconnect the
hard drive from the
interconnect board.
Slide hard drive
carrier off the internal
frame.
3 If you are replacing

the carrier, remove 4
carrier screws and
transfer hard drive to
replacement carrier.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive Carrier (Late 2009) 115
Hard Drive, Lower
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Note: On the Mac

mini dual hard drive
configuration, this drive
is known as the “lower”
drive.
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive, Lower 116
Removal

8822.
2 Disconnect the hard

drive sensor cable
from J204 on the
interconnect board.
3 With a black stick, pry
hard drive from the
interconnect board
connector.
4 Carefully remove the

hard drive from the
internal frame.
Note: The hard drive

sensor cable remains
with the hard drive.
Hard Drive, Upper (Late 2009)
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
• Hard drive carrier
Note: On the Mac

mini dual hard drive
configuration, this drive
is known as the “upper”
drive.
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive, Upper (Late 2009) 119
Removal
1 Turn over the hard

drive carrier.
2 Remove 4 screws:
• 922-8822.
Note: The upper drive

does not have a temp
sensor cable like the lower
hard drive.
Reassembly
1 Slide hard drive

carrier into internal
frame.
2 Slide hard drive

connector into
interconnect board
connector.
3 Replace 6 screws.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Hard Drive, Upper (Late 2009) 120
Optical Drive
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive 121
Removal

6680.
2 Rotate the internal

frame 180 degrees.
Remove 2 more
screws 922-6680.
3 Rotate the internal
frame so the
interconnect board is
facing you. Remove 2
interconnect board
screws 922-6680.
• 2 (922-6680)1091
4 Remove the black

tape attaching from
the interconnect to
the optical drive.
5 Use a black stick to

pry the optical drive
from the interconnect
board connector.
Fan
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Fan 124

Removal
1 Remove 2 fan screws

922-8819.
2 Free fan tab from the

corner of the internal
frame.

3 Remove the fan cable
from the cable
channel.
4 Disconnect the
twisted (black, blue
and gray) fan cable
from connector J205
on the interconnect
board.
Replacement
Note: Make sure to
connect the fan. If
the fan connector
is disconnected, the
computer will quickly
flash the LED and
then shut down.

Interconnect Board
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Interconnect Board 127
Removal
1 Remove the black

tape (not shown)
covering the 3
connectors.
2 Disconnect 4 cables:
• IR (J211)
• speaker (J206)
• fan (J205)
• hard drive sensor
(J204)
3 Using Phillips #0
screwdriver, remove 2
screws 922-8820.
4. Pry the interconnect

board from the
connectors on the
optical and hard drive.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Interconnect Board 128
Interconnect Board (Late 2009)
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Note: This interconnect

board is used with
the dual hard drive
configuration only.
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Interconnect Board (Late 2009) 129
Removal
1 Remove black mylar

tape covering the
connectors.
2 Disconnect 4 cables:
• IR (J211)
• speaker (J206)
• fan (J205)
• hard drive sensor
(J204)
3 Remove 2 Phillips #0
screws 922-8820.
4. Pry the interconnect

board from the
connectors on the 2
hard drives.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Interconnect Board (Late 2009) 130
Battery
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Battery 131

Removal
1 Using your finger or

black stick, push the
battery inward.
2 Grab the battery as

it slips up and out of
the battery holder.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Battery 132

Speaker
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Speaker 133

Removal
1. Remove 4 shoulder
screws 922-6925.
Replacement Note:
It’s easier to replace
the 2 lower speaker
screws when the hard
drive is removed.
2 Free the speaker

cable from the cable
clip on the internal
frame.

3 Remove speaker cable
from the cable
channel.
4 Disconnect the 2-pin

speaker cable from
J206 on interconnect
board.

Logic Board
First Steps
Remove:
• Top housing
• Internal frame
Tools
• Torx T10 screwdriver
• Black stick
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Logic Board 136
Removal

the power button
cable. Lift the cable
vertically.

the power-on LED. Lift
the cable vertically.
3 Near the memory slot,
use a T10 screwdriver
to remove the
standoff 922-7434.
4 With a black stick, pry

up the logic board. As
you lift the logic
gently tilt the power-
on LED out of the
way.
5 Slide the board out of
the I/O ports.
Important: Be careful
not to damage the
EMI clips on the
underside of the
board.
6 To protect the EMI
clips, always place
the board on the
pink antistatic foam
when the board is not
in a system.
Reassembly
1 Before returning the

board to Apple,
remove:
• memory DIMMs
• AirPort/Bluetooth
combo card
• AirPort/Bluetooth
flexible cable
2 Important: Return the

logic board to Apple
with the antistatic
foam placed on the
underside of the
board to protect the
EMI clips.
Bottom Housing
First Steps
• Top housing
• Internal frame
• Audio board
• Logic Board
Tools
No tools are required for
this procedure.
With all other modules

removed or transferred,
the bottom housing is the
remaining assembly.
2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Bottom Housing 141
 Service Source
Views

Exploded View
Top Housing,
922-8812, w/optical slot
922-9116, w/o optical slot
Optical Drive
Super Drive, 8x
Hard Drive, w/sensor
Slot, SATA
661-5176, 2.5”, 160 GB
661-5243
661-5201, 2.5”, 320 GB
661-5293, 2.5”, 500 GB, Upper
661-5294, 2.5”, 500 GB, Lower
BlueTooth/AirPort Hard Drive Carrier

Antenna Kit 922-9144, dual hard drive
076-1352
Antenna Springs, Pkg. of 5

922-8969
Interconnect Board
922-8807, optical and hard drive
EMI Clip, Optical 922-9112, dual hard drive
922-8940
Fan
922-8804
Speaker Kit Audio Board

076-1328 Flex Cable
922-8809
SDRAM (not shown)

661-5287, 1 GB, DDR3, 1066
Battery 661-5288, 2 GB, DDR3, 1066
922-8802
IR Board/Cable
922-8805 Logic Board
922-9113 * 661-5290, 2.26 GHz
661-5291, 2.53 GHz
AirPort/Bluetooth 661-5389, 2.66 GHz
Card
Standoff
922-8816 Audio Board
922-8803
Internal Frame
922-8811
AirPort/BlueTooth AirPort/BlueTooth
Combo Card Flex Cable
661-4970 922-8810
B661-4970
J661-4970
KH661-4970
PA661-4970 Bottom Housing
z661-4970 922-8801
922-9114
2008-08-27 Mac mini (Late 2009) Exploded View 143

Screw Chart
Note: Screws are not to scale.
922-6680 #0 Phillips 922-8822 #1 Phillips 922-7325 #0 Phillips
- Optical drive (4) - Hard drive (4) - Logic board (3)
- Interconnect board (2) - Audio board (1)
- AirPort/Bluetooth card (3)

922-7324, 8mm #1 922-8816 Torx T10 922-8819 #0 Phillips
Phillips
- Logic board (1), near LED - Logic board standoff - Fan (2)
922-8820 #0 Phillips 922-6925 #1 Phillips 922-8969
- IR board (1) - Speaker (4) - Spring, antennas (1 each)
2008-08-27 Mac mini (Late 2009) Screw Chart 144

Internal Views
Front View
Speaker, optical drive, batery, IR board, power-on LED
Side View 1
AirPort antenna, optical drive, internal frame
2008-08-27 Mac mini (Late 2009) Internal Views 145

Side View 2
AirPort antenna, Bluetooth antenna, audio board, internal frame
Mac mini w/Optical

Mac mini Server w/Dual Hard Drives

Port View
A = Power-on button
B = AC inlet
C = Gigabit Ethernet
D = FireWire 800
E = Mini-DVI port
F = Mini DisplayPort
G = USB 2.0 ports
H = Kensington Lock
I = Audio line out
J = Audio line in

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 Apple Technician Guide

Mac mini (Late 2009)

© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

Top Housing, Server (Late 2009) 86

AirPort/Bluetooth Combo Card 106

Optical Drive 121

Bottom Housing 141

Apple Technician Guide introduced 20 October 2009

2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Basics — Manual Updates 7

© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

Features Late 2009 Configurations

For product configurations, refer to Applecare Tech Specs: http://support.apple.com/specs/

2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Basics — Overview 10

2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Basics — Overview 11

2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Basics — Overview 12

© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

Hardware vs. Software

For information on how to troubleshoot a software issue, refer to:

2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Apple Diagnostics 14

2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) General Troubleshooting — Block Diagram 15

Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)

To reset power management via the SMC chip:

Resetting the Parameter RAM (PRAM)

For more information:

HT1564—What is Safe Boot, Safe Mode? <http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564>

TS1884—Safe Boot take longer than normal startup <http://support.apple.com/kb/

Note: A compilation of Quick Check tables is available at:

Startup and Power

No Power, Dead Unit

Symptoms Quick Check

No Power, Dead Unit 1. Verify power source.

Unlikely cause: speakers

Check Result Action Code

1. Power ON system. Verify if Yes The symptom is powering

2. Disconnect AC power from Yes It is possible for the power

4. Remove drive internal frame Yes Go to Won’t Start Up P16

6. Disconnect LED, remove logic Yes Bottom Housing causing an X13

Symptoms Quick Check

Won’t Start Up 1. Isolate OS by starting up from original install

Check Result Action Code

1. Boot the computer to Apple Yes Run the extended tests

4. Disconnect the drive carrier Yes Go to Step 5

5. Attempt to boot the system Yes Go to Step 6.

6. Connect the interconnect Yes Go to step 7

7. Remove the hard drives (one at Yes Go to step 8

8. Install hard drive and optical Yes Possible connection issue.

Symptoms Quick Check

Intermittent Shutdown 1. Isolate OS by starting up from original Install

Check Result Action Code

1. Verify improper shutdown Yes Determine if user caused

3. Disconnect the hard drive Yes Go to step 4.

Does the computer continue to

4. Check temperature sensor and Yes Retest. Go to step 1 if problem

5. Replace or check affected Yes Retest. Go to step 1 if problem

Symptoms Quick Check

Kernel Panic, System Crashes 1. Isolate OS by starting up system from original

Check Result Action Code

2. Remove all peripheral devices Yes Add peripheral devices one at

4. Remove AirPort /Bluetooth card Yes Go to AirPort Card Kernel