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 1 Infinite Loop Cupertino, CA 95014-2084 USA + 1 408 996 1010 www.apple.com Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S.
Mac mini (Late 2009) 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.
Wireless Input Device Loses Connection Uncategorized Symptoms 45 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 Optical Drive Noisy 59 Uncategorized Symptoms 61 Input/Output Devices 58 62 Apple Remote Inoperable 62 Audio: Built-in Speaker Has Distorted Sound 64
Removal 90 Reassembly 93 Antennas 95 Removal 96 Reassembly 98 Memory 100 Audio Board 102 Removal 103 Reassembly 105 AirPort/Bluetooth Combo Card IR Board and Cable 106 108 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) Battery Speaker 131 133 Logic Board 136 Removal 137 Reassembly 140 Bottom Housi
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
Apple Technician Guide Basics Mac mini (Late 2009) Mac mini (Late 2009) and Mac mini Server (Late 2009) © 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
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.
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.
Apple Technician Guide Troubleshooting Mac mini (Late 2009) Mac mini (Late 2009) and Mac mini Server (Late 2009) © 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
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.
Block Diagram Refer to this diagram to see how modules are interrelated.
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.
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).
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.
Deep Dive Unlikely cause: speakers Check Result Action 1. Power ON system. Verify if there is any indication that the system has powered up (fan rotation, hard drive or optical drive noise, backlight turns on). Yes The symptom is powering up. Jump to Won’t Start Up symptom flow. No Go to step 2. 2. Disconnect AC power from adapter for 1 minute, and reconnect. Does the system power on when power ON button is pressed?. Yes It is possible for the power adapter to trip.
Won’t Start Up Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Won’t Start Up • No startup chime • Error tones during startup. • Grey screen with fan noise, or other noise. • Will not progress beyond Apple logo or spinning gear. 1. 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. Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are available when booted from the Install disk. 2.
3. Remove the coin battery on the logic board, and leave out for approximately 1 minute. Then reinstall the battery. This will reset the logic board. Does the computer startup properly now? Yes Issue resolved by logic board reset. Measure DC voltage on the battery touching the battery with the red probe, and grounding with the black probe. If voltage is 2.7v or less, 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.
Intermittent Shutdown Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Intermittent Shutdown • Powers off during startup. • Powers off during desktop use. • Computer restarts spontaneously. • Powers off when waking from sleep. 1. 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. Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are available when booted from the Install disk. 2.
2. With known-good AC power cord and AC outlet, does the unit continue to shutdown? Yes Go to step 3. No Replace adapter 3. Disconnect the hard drive power cable from the hard drive and start the machine from the Install DVD, the same make and model computer in Target Disk Mode, or compatible known-good OS on an external drive.
Kernel Panic, System Crashes Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Kernel Panic, System Crashes • Kernel Panic on startup or desktop use. • System freeze during use. • System freeze upon wake from sleep. 1. Isolate OS by starting up system 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. Both AirPort and Bluetooth services are available when booted from the Install disk. 2.
3. Use known-good SDRAM in the system. Does the computer start without kernel panic now? 2009-11-03 Yes Install user’s SDRAM and test. If kernel panic repeats, replace SDRAM. Verify that the correct SDRAM is being used. No Go to step 4. 4. Remove AirPort /Bluetooth card and test. Does the computer start without kernel panic now? Yes Go to AirPort Card Kernel Panic symptom flow. No Go to step 5. 5.
No Video Unlikely cause: hard drive, optical drive, speakers, camera, microphone Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check No Video • No image. 1. Check display connections 2. Check connections for pin damage. 3. Reset SMC. 4. Go to Deep Dive. Deep Dive: No Video Check 2009-11-03 Result Action 1. Verify boot chime present and fans running when system powered ON. (Reset SMC and clear PRAM if necessary for proper boot up.) Yes Power ON self test OK. Boot sequence started. Go to step 2.
Corrupted Video Unlikely cause: Adapter, hard drive, optical drive, fan, or speaker. Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Corrupted Video • Text and graphics appear fuzzy • Image corrupted 1. Set System Preferences/Display LCD panel to native resolution. Non-native resolutions are 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.
3. Inspect display connector and display cables. Reseat. Does the issue persist? Yes Replace Logic board. Go to step 4. No Issue likely caused by poor connection. Return computer to user. 4. Verify whether issue is still present with replacement logic board installed. Yes Go to step 5. No Issue resolved with replacement logic board installed. Return system to customer. Yes Replace logic board, may be incompatible with the display. Go to step 4. No Issue resolved with replacement logic board.
Burnt Smell/Odor Unlikely cause: speakers, microphone, housing Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Burnt Smell/Odor • Burning smell • Unusual odor 1. Verify source of smell/odor is emanating from the system. 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.
3. Can the source of the odor be located using nose? 2009-11-03 Yes Replace affect module(s) and 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 Symptoms Quick Check Noise/Hum/Vibration • Buzzing noise • Rattling noise • Ticking noise • Squeaking 1. Verify that the vents on the bottom and back of the system are free of dust and other obstructions that might inhibit proper airflow through the system. 2. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor. Determine whether an application or process is consuming a high percentage of CPU bandwidth.
Deep Dive Check Result 1. Run Apple Hardware Test or Apple Server Diagnostics. Was an error generated? 2. Does noise sound like fan running faster than expected? 3. Does the noise change when the optical drive is being accessed or media is inserted or ejected? 4. Mute the system volume. Verify whether the issue still occurs. 5. Remove fan and rotate the blades. Verify that fan blades spin smoothly without interference from fan housing. 2009-11-03 Action Yes Suspect possible fan or sensor error.
6. Reinstall fan while carefully ensuring that the cable is routed properly and there’s no interference with the fan blades. After reassembling system verify that the noise issue is resolved. 7. Disconnect these major modules/parts (e.g: hard drive, optical drive, fan) one at a time then power ON the system. Determine if noise issue goes away when one of the modules is disconnected. 2009-11-03 Yes Noise issue resolved.
Uncategorized Symptoms Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Uncategorized Symptoms • Unable to locate appropriate symptom code. 1. Make sure system is plugged into a known-good outlet. 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 Check 1.
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 Symptoms Quick Check AirPort/Bluetooth Issues • Unable to join networks or pair devices • Card not available • Intermittent device or connection dropouts • Limited wireless range 1. Verify that AirPort or Bluetooth is turned ON and for AirPort issues make sure that a network is selected. 2.
Deep Dive Check 1. Open System Profiler. AirPort is listed under Network, while Bluetooth is listed under USB. Is AirPort/Bluetooth recognized? Result Action Yes Install all software updates for AirPort/Bluetooth. AirPort, go to step 3. Bluetooth, go to step 4 No Remove and reinstall the AirPort/Bluetooth card and retest. Examine the flexible AirPort/Bluetooth cable for damage, and reseat. If cable is damaged, go to step 7. Code M11 If still unrecognized, replace the AirPort/Bluetooth card.
2009-11-03 6. With the AirPort/Bluetooth card replaced and antenna cables inspected for damage and replaced if necessary, are the connection issues resolved? Yes Issue resolved. No Replace the logic board 7. Replace the wireless flex cable, and retest. Is Airport/Bluetooth recognized? Yes Issue resolved. 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 Symptoms Quick Check AirPort/Bluetooth Card Kernel Panic • Kernel Panic on startup • Kernel Panic or freezing while attempting to connect to Wi-Fi networks • Kernel Panic while transferring data on Wi-Fi networks 1.
Ethernet Port/Device Issue Unlikely cause: Adapter, hard drive, optical drive, fan Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Ethernet Port/Device Issue • No Ethernet device present • Unable to access network resources • Ethernet device shows no connection • Ethernet device unable to an IP address • Slow network performance 1. Check the ethernet cable for damage, try a known good Ethernet cable – CAT5 or better recommended for 100Mbps+ connections. 2.
3. Connect the computer to another Macintosh computer using CAT5 ethernet cable. Mac OS X 10.5 users see article . Yes Ethernet communication good. Go to step 4 No If same ethernet cable and computer connects to a known good computer of same make and model, replace logic board 4. Check for speed and duplex issues on the network. Open System Preference > Network; click the Advanced button, then the Ethernet tab.
Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair • Can’t get system to recognize the Bluetooth keyboard or mouse 1. Remove and reinstall the batteries for the device. 2. Check that device is powering on. 3. Use known-good batteries with the device. 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 Check 2009-11-03 Result Action 1.
2009-11-03 5. With the wireless mouse paired, does the mouse stay connected? Yes Issue resolved No Inspect and reseat the 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 paired, does the mouse stay connected? Yes Antenna issue. Issue resolved.
Wireless Input Device Loses Connection Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Wireless Input Device Loses Connection • Wireless keyboard, mouse, or other wireless input device loses connection. 1. Remove and reinstall the batteries for the device. 2. Check that device is powering on. 3. Use known-good batteries with the device. 4. Ensure other devices pair and keep connection without issue. If not, see AirPort/Bluetooth: Defective Wireless Device symptom. 5.
2009-11-03 5. Log into new Admin User account. With the device on, run the Bluetooth Setup Assistant. Can you successfully pair the device with the New User? Yes User-based issue. Troubleshoot software on User account. No repair needed. No Remove the following file: / Library/Preferences/com. apple.Bluetooth.plist Go to step 6 6. Restart the computer, With the device on, run the Bluetooth Setup Assistant.
Uncategorized Symptoms Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Uncategorized Symptoms • Unable to locate appropriate symptom code. 1. Verify System Preferences/Network settings are configured appropriately to support 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.
Mass Storage Hard Drive Not Recognized Unlikely cause: AC adapter, fan, speaker. Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Drive Not Recognized (H01) Drive No Boot (H02) • Flashing Question Mark • Boots to Grey Screen • Boots to Blue Screen 1. Use a known good mouse. A stuck mouse button will not allow boot. 2. Boot from Install DVD or external drive. Verify S.M.A.R.T. status of drive using Disk Utility. 3. Repair disk using Disk Utility. 4. Erase disk and reinstall Mac OS. 5.
2009-11-03 5. Inspect hard drive, interconnect board, and connectors for bent pins, or other damage to the cable. Yes Replace interconnect board. Go to step 8 No Go to step 6 6. Reseat interconnect board, hard drive and logic board connections and verify whether computer starts up Yes Go to step 8 No Replace interconnect board, go to step 8 7. Test with known good hard drive. Verify that system boots successfully and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors.
Hard Drive Read/Write Error Unlikely cause: LCD panel, power supply, fans, speakers, camera, microphone Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Drive Read/Write Error (H03) Drive Bad Sector/Defective (H05) Drive Formatting Issues (H07) • Cannot save documents • Read/write error message • Hang when accessing or saving data 1. Boot from Install DVD or external drive. Verify S.M.A.R.T. status of drive using Disk Utility. 2. Repair disk using Disk Utility. 3.
6. Test with known good hard drive. Verify that system boots successfully and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors. Yes Install user drive, go to step 8 No Interconnect board verified or replaced and known good Hard drive installed. Replace logic board. 7. Reboot computer. Verify that system boots successfully and that Disk utility ‘Verify’ function reports no errors. Yes Issue resolved. Return system to user. No Go to step 6 8. Reboot computer.
Deep Dive Check Action 1. Boot from Install DVD or external drive and run Disk Utility. Verify that user hard drive is available for Disk Utility to repair. Yes Go to step 2 No Go to H01 Drive not recognized/mount 2. Run Disk Utility ‘Repair Disk’ function and verify that it completes successfully. Yes Go to step 3 No Go to step 4 3. Re-start the computer. Verify whether the noise is still present. Yes Go to step 6 No Data error issue resolved by Disk Utility. Return system to user. 4.
2009-11-03 8. With hard drive removed and no media in the optical drive, boot from an external volume and determine if the noise is caused by media in the optical drive. Yes Go to J04 Optical Drive Noisy. No Go to step 9. 9. With replacement hard drive installed verify whether noise level is noticeably quieter than customer’s hard drive. Yes Customer hard drive noise level is similar to a known good one and does not require repair. No Replace customer’s hard drive. Return system to customer.
Uncategorized Symptom- Hard Drive Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Uncategorized Symptom • Unable to locate appropriate symptom 1. Start up the computer holding down the “D” key on the keyboard to see if Apple Hardware Test on 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.
Deep Dive-Uncategorized Symptoms Check 1. Verify whether an existing symptom chart applies to the issue reported by the customer. 2009-11-03 Result Action Yes Jump to appropriate symptom chart flow. No Document reported failure symptom and send feedback to smfeedback2@apple stating that a suitable symptom code could not be found.
Optical Drive Not Recognized (For systems with optical drives) Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Drive Not Recognized/Mount (J05) • Discs inject and eject, but do not appear in Finder 1. Use Apple System Profiler Serial-ATA section to see if the optical drive appears. 2. Apple System Profiler Serial-ATA section will show 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.
5. Connect original optical drive to known good interconnect board. Do both types of media reliably read now? 6. Test read compatible known good CD and DVD media (Install DVD). Verify media is recognized and reads reliably. Yes Interconnect board issue. Replace Interconnect board . Go to step 6 X03 No Replace optical drive. J03 Yes Issue resolved. No Replace optical drive.
2009-11-03 3. Connect known good optical drive to interconnect board. Verify that known good optical drive is listed in the System Profiler device tree. Yes Go to step 4. No Suspect interconnect board. Go to step 7 4. With known good optical drive installed, test for media inject/ eject. Verify drive accepts and ejects known good media. Yes Known good optical drive resolved inject/eject issue. Replace optical drive. No Go to step 7 5. Inspect optical drive slot during disc insert/ eject.
Optical Drive Read/Write Error Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Drive Read/Write Data Error (J03) • Errors when writing optical media. • Errors when reading optical media. • Hang when accessing or preparing to write data. 1. Test optical media in another drive of the same type in the same type of computer to rule out media issue. 2. Check with known good discs like the Install discs that came with the computer. 3.
5. Connect original optical drive to known good interconnect board. Do both types of media reliably read now? 6. Test write data to compatible CD and DVD media. Verify burned media is recognized and reads reliably. Yes Interconnect board issue. Replace interconnect board. Go to step 6 X03 No Replace optical drive. J03 Yes Issue resolved. No Replace optical drive.
3. Connect known good optical drive to Interconnect board. Do both types of media reliably read now? Yes Interconnect board connections on logic board good. Go to step 5 No Replace Interconnect board and test (X03). If issue persists, replace logic board (M19). Go to step 6 Yes Interconnect board issue. Replace interconnect board. Go to step 6 X03 No Replace optical drive. J03 5. Test write data to compatible CD and DVD media. Verify burned media is recognized and reads reliably.
Deep Dive Check 2009-11-03 Result Action 1. Optical drive should perform a single reset sequence. Is optical drive constantly seeking or cycling eject mechanism without an optical disc installed?? Yes Drive mechanism damaged. Replace optical drive. No Go to step 2 2. Verify media does not exceed maximum thickness specification
Uncategorized Symptoms Check 1. Verify whether existing symptom code applies to the issue reported by the user. 2009-11-03 Result Action Yes Jump to appropriate symptom code flow. No Document reported failure and send feedback to smfeedback2@apple.com stating that a suitable symptom code wasn’t found. Provide as much detail as possible.
Input/Output Devices Apple Remote Inoperable Unlikely cause: Adapter, fan, optical drive, hard drive Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Apple Remote Inoperable • Apple Remote doesn’t bring up Front Row • Apple Remote doesn’t control iTunes • Apple Remote doesn’t control computer volume 1. Make sure you’re using the Apple Remote within 30 ft of the computer, and have an unobstructed line-of-sight to the computer. 2.
4. Open the Apple System Profiler. Selecting USB, do you see “IR Receiver” listed? 2009-11-03 Yes IR Receiver reporting on USB bus. Check for lens block. Go 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 computer now respond to the Apple Remote? Yes Lens blocked. Issue resolved. No Lens damaged or inoperable. Replace the IR Receiver or top housing. X13 6.
Audio: Built-in Speaker Has Distorted Sound Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Audio: Built-in Speakers Have Distorted Sound • No audio from one or both speakers. • Audio from speakers distorted 1. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/ Output options. Verify that the sound output option is set to system’s internal speakers and that the balance control is set to the center position. 2. Obtain known good high quality sound file or use iTunes music store sound samples to evaluate sound quality.
4. Install known good speaker into location where distorted sound was heard. Verify that sound quality improves. Yes Speaker bad. Replace speaker and retest. M09 No Suspect speaker amplifier. Replace audio board. M09 Audio: Built-in Speaker Has No Audio Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Audio: Built-in Speakers Have No Audio • No audio from speaker. • Audio from speaker distorted 1. Launch System Preferences and select Sound/ Output options.
3. Verify whether customer reported audio issue has been resolved. 2009-11-03 Yes Issue no longer present. Return system to customer. No Go to step 4. 4. Boot system from Install DVD or another known good bootable volume. Verify whether issue still occurs. Yes Go to step 5. No Known good boot volume works OK. Troubleshoot for software issue. Isolate whether issue is application specific or whether possible operating system conflict.
FireWire Devices Not Recognized Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check FireWire Devices Not Recognized • FireWire external drive not recognized • FireWire printer not recognized 1. For external FireWire drives, make sure any external power source is plugged in and operating to isolate a power issue with the device. 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. 4.
2009-11-03 4. Is the FireWire device recognized with a known good FireWire cable on the user’s computer? Yes FireWire cable issue. Issue resolved. 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 hub, and having installed any software or firmware update for the device, is the FireWire device recognized now? Yes Device recognized.
USB Devices Not Recognized Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check USB Devices Not Recognized • USB wired keyboard/mouse not recognized • USB external drive not recognized • USB printer not recognized 1. For printers and external USB drives, make sure any external power source is plugged in and operating to isolate a power issue with the device. 2. The system has 5 USB ports on the rear of the computer. Make sure to try each port to isolate a particular port malfunction. 3.
3. Are known good mouse and keyboard recognized? 2009-11-03 Yes Test original mouse and keyboard. Replace if still not recognized. Go to step 5 No External USB ports not functioning. Replace logic board. 4. With no USB devices connected, restart the computer. Did Bluetooth Mouse Setup assistant launch after startup? Yes Bluetooth detected via Internal USB. Go to step 3 No Bluetooth not recognized via internal USB. Internal and external USB not functioning. Replace logic board. 5.
Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Wired Keyboard Does Not Function Properly • Some or all keys on the keyboard don’t work • Eject key or Caps Lock key doesn’t seem to work • Some keys don’t work as expected 1. The system has 5 USB ports on the rear of the computer. Make sure to try each port to isolate a particular port malfunction. 2. Test with a known good wired keyboard to isolate a failed peripheral issue. 3. Test the keyboard on another Mac.
5. With optical media in the drive, hold the Media Eject key. Does the disc eject normally and the eject symbol appear? Yes Media eject key delay. No repair necessary. No Go to Optical Drive Won’t Accept/Reject Media 6. Open System Preferences > Universal Access > Keyboard. Is “Slow Keys” enabled? Yes With “Slow Keys” on, you need to press a key for a longer period of time for it to be recognized. No Go to step 7 Yes With “Mouse Keys” on, you cannot use the Numeric Keypad to enter numbers.
Keyboard: Specific Keys Do Not Respond Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Keyboard: Specific Keys Do Not Respond • One or more keys do not respond when pressed • Key sticks • Keycap missing 1. If wireless keyboard is being used verify that it is properly paired with the system. Go to ‘Wireless Input Device Doesn’t Pair’ symptom flow to resolve pairing issues. 2. The caps lock key has a built-in delay to reduce accidental activation and must be held for approximately ½ second for it to be activated.
Deep Dive Check Result 1. Does the computer recognize the keyboard or mouse when plugged into the USB ports? Yes Test in all USB ports to ensure all USB ports working as 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 expected? Yes Go to step 3 No Go to Wired Keyboard Does Not Work Properly symptom 3.
Uncategorized Symptoms Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Uncategorized Symptoms • Unable to locate appropriate symptom code. 1. Verify that external I/O device (where applicable) works on another system. 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 Check Result 1. Verify whether existing symptom code applies to the issue reported by the user.
Mechanical Noise/Hum/Vibration Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Noise/Hum/Vibration • Buzzing noise • Rattling noise • Ticking noise • Squeaking noise 1. Verify that the vents on the bottom system are free of dust and other obstructions that might inhibit proper airflow through the system. . 2. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor. Determine whether an application or process is consuming a high percentage of CPU bandwidth.
Deep Dive Check 1. Run Apple Hardware Test or Apple Server Diagnostics. Was an error generated? 2. Does noise sound like fan is running faster than expected? 3. Does the noise change when the optical drive is being accessed or media is inserted or ejected? 4. Mute the system volume. Verify whether the issue still occurs. 5. Open unit. Remove fan and rotate the blades. Verify that fan blades spin smoothly without interference from fan housing.
System Runs Hot Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check System Runs Hot • System feels very hot • Fan not operating • Fan running fast • System is noisy 1. Verify that the vents on the bottom are free of dust and other obstructions that might inhibit proper airflow through the system. 2. Verify that the computer is not exposed to 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.
3. Remove fan and rotate the blades. Verify that fan blades spin smoothly without interference from fan housing and that the fan blades are all intact. Yes Fan reseated, blades rotate, noise gone. No Replace affected fan. P06 Physical Damage Quick Check Symptoms Quick Check Physical Damage • Stripped screw/head • Stripped screw boss • Dent or scratch to chassis 1. Determine whether damage caused by user environment, accidental damage, or abuse.
Service Source Take Apart Mac mini (Late 2009) Mac mini (Late 2009) and Mac mini Server (Late 2009) © 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
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.
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).
Top Housing First Steps • • Shut down the computer. Place the computer on a clean, flat surface.
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.
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 • • Phillips #0 screwdriver 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 (9227324) 6 Lift internal frame up and off bottom housing. Important: Leave antennas connected to the AirPort/ Bluetooth card unless 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 0761352 for Mac mini (Late 2009) configurations.
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/ Bluetooth card unless 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.
Audio Board First Steps Remove: • Top housing Tools • • Phillips #0 screwdriver 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 9227325.
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.
Removal 1 Remove 3 screws 9226680. 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/ Bluetooth card unless you are replacing the antennas or the AirPort/Bluetooth card.
IR Board and Cable First Steps Remove: • • Top housing Internal frame Tools • • Phillips #0 screwdriver Black stick 2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — IR Board and Cable 108
Removal 1 Remove 1 screw 9228820. 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 • • Phillips #0 screwdriver Black stick 2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — IR Board and Cable (Late 2009) 111
Removal 1 Remove 1 screw 9228820. 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.
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.
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.
Removal 1 Remove 4 screws 9228822. 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.
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.
Optical Drive First Steps Remove: • • Top housing Internal frame Tools • • Phillips #0 screwdriver Black stick 2009-11-03 Mac mini (Late 2009) Take Apart — Optical Drive 121
Removal 1 Remove 2 screws 9226680. 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 • • Phillips #0 screwdriver 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 • • Phillips #0 screwdriver 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.
Interconnect Board (Late 2009) First Steps Remove: • • Top housing Internal frame Note: This interconnect board is used with the dual hard drive configuration only.
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.
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.
Speaker First Steps Remove: • • Top housing Internal frame Tools • • Phillips #0 screwdriver 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 1 With a black stick, carefully disconnect the power button cable. Lift the cable vertically. 2 With a black stick, carefully disconnect 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 poweron 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 • • • 2 Before returning the board to Apple, remove: memory DIMMs AirPort/Bluetooth combo card AirPort/Bluetooth flexible cable 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.
Service Source Views Mac mini (Late 2009) Mac mini (Late 2009) and Mac mini Server (Late 2009) © 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Exploded View Top Housing, 922-8812, w/optical slot 922-9116, w/o optical slot Optical Drive Super Drive, 8x Slot, SATA 661-5243 BlueTooth/AirPort Antenna Kit 076-1352 Hard Drive, w/sensor 661-5176, 2.5”, 160 GB 661-5201, 2.5”, 320 GB 661-5293, 2.5”, 500 GB, Upper 661-5294, 2.5”, 500 GB, Lower Hard Drive Carrier 922-9144, dual hard drive Antenna Springs, Pkg.
Screw Chart Note: Screws are not to scale.
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 2008-08-27 Mac mini (Late 2009) Internal Views 146
Mac mini Server w/Dual Hard Drives 2008-08-27 Mac mini (Late 2009) Internal Views 147
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.
