Technical information

Your screen displays a right-angle bracket prompt (>) instead of the regular
Macintosh desktop.
Your computer has tried to launch a “debugging” application, but could not find one on your hard disk.
Debugging applications are programs that software developers use to locate and fix problems in
computer code. If you do not have a debugging application installed, your screen displays a right-angle
bracket prompt (>). To return to the desktop, press G and then press Return.
Your computer’s clock begins to keep time inaccurately
If your clock begins to keep time inaccurately, have an Apple-authorized service provider replace the
battery. The service provider will dispose of the battery according to the local environmental
guidelines. Consult the service and support information that came with your computer for instructions
on how to contact an Apple-authorized service provider or Apple for assistance.
s
Warning Do not attempt to replace the clock battery yourself. If your clock begins to lose accuracy,
have an Apple-authorized service provider replace the battery. The service provider will dispose of the
battery according to the local environmental guidelines. s
The computer makes unusual sounds.
m An application may need your attention. If an icon is blinking in the menu bar, open the menu,
choose the application whose icon is blinking (it may have a diamond by its name), and take the
necessary action.
m Open the Easy Access control panel (if it is installed on your computer) and check whether any
features are turned on.
m Select a different system sound in the Monitors & Sound control panel.
m If the sounds are regular or melodic, they may be caused by interference from electrical equipment.
Move the computer farther away from any such equipment.
m Make sure that the covers on the speaker grilles (to the left and right of the screen) are fastened.
See also “The Computer Makes an Unusual Sound at Startup” in the section “Problems Turning On or
Starting Up Your Computer,” earlier in this chapter.
Solutions
to Common
Problems
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