Symptom Charts

The symptom charts included in this lesson will help you diagnose specific symptoms by following the guidelines set forth in the Apple General Troubleshooting Flowchart. Because cures are listed on the charts in the order of most likely solution to least likely, try the cures in the order presented. Verify whether or not the product continues to exhibit the symptom. If the symptom persists, try the next cure.

Power Adapter

The system was designed to use the Apple 65-Watt Portable Power Adapter that came with your computer. The previous 45 W power adapter for PowerBooks is plug compatible, but it may not provide sufficient power during some activities, and power may be drawn temporarily from the battery. You can identify the Apple 65 W power adapter by its markings.

Under low-battery or no-battery situations, the 45 W power adapter may not be able to provide enough power to properly support the system.

Startup

The Computer Will Not Power On (No Blower Movement, Hard Drive Spins Up, and Display Is Not Lit)

1.	Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC Card.
2.	Check that the battery has enough charge to start the computer by pressing the button next to the LEDs on the battery. At least one LED must light solid (not fiashing).
3.	Connect a known-good Apple 65-Watt Portable Power Adapter and power cord or plug to a known-good power outlet; make sure the DC plug is inserted firmly. The DC plug should light up; if not, replace the Sound/DC-in board.
4.	Try powering up without the battery installed (this works only with 65 W power adapter). If it boots, replace the battery connector cable.
5.	Reset the PMU using the procedure explained in “Resetting the PMU.”
6.	Press Caps Lock to see if its light comes on. If it does, hold down the power button for 6 seconds to shut down the computer, then restart.
7.	If the computer still doesn't start, verify the power button cable is connected properly to the top case fiex cable assembly and that the fiex cable is connected correctly to the logic board. If the power button is not functioning correctly or is damaged, replace the top case.
8.	Disconnect the keyboard completely. Inspect its connectors. Restart the computer with the keyboard disconnected.
9.	Remove any additional RAM that may have been added (in other words, restore RAM to its original minimum configuration).
10.	Try disconnecting the AirPort Extreme fiex connector from the logic board and start the computer. If it starts, shut it down and check the fiex cable connector and the connector on the logic board, and replace the damaged parts.
11.	Reseat the following fiex cables in turn, trying to start the computer after each procedure: Sound/DC-in Hard drive (will boot to flashing folder) Optical drive PC Card cage Trackpad Right USB Modem If the computer starts up, inspect the flex cable connector and its connector on the logic board for damage, and replace the damaged parts.
12.	Remove the AirPort Extreme Card.
13.	Try a known-good Sound/DC-in board.
14.	Replace the logic board.

Dialog Appears: “The Built-in Memory Test Has Detected an Error”

1.	Run Apple Service Diagnostic (ASD). NOTE If the failure is intermittent, run ASD in loop mode (check looping options under the Test Controls pane and select only the RAM test under the Select Tests pane) for an extended time to test the memory.
2.	If the test can't find the memory, or finds bad memory, inspect the modules to verify that it is of the proper type. The PowerBook G4 (15-inch 1.67/1.5GHz) uses PC2700 (also called DDR333) double data rate (DDR) synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM) small outline dual inline memory modules (SO-DIMMs) with a maximum height of 1.25-inch (30 mm). If improper memory is being used, replace it. Otherwise, try reseating the module and retest. If still reported as bad, replace it.
3.	Check the memory connector slot for damage (retention arms broken, connectors bent or missing, connector lifted from the logic board). If damage is detected, replace the logic board.

Blue Screen Appears (a Spinning Disc Cursor May Also Be Visible), Prohibitory Sign Appears, Restart Dialog Appears (Mac OS X 10.2 Kernel Panic Window), or Gray Screen During Startup

1.	Make sure all external devices are disconnected and any PC Card is ejected. If the kernel panic window goes away, troubleshoot the external device by reconnecting each device until the panic occurs.
2.	If there are two RAM modules installed in the expansion slots, remove the top module and restart. Does the symptom repeat? Yes: Replace bottom module with known-good memory. No: Replace top module with known-good memory.

Flashing Question Mark Appears at Startup

1.	Start up from the Software Install and Restore DVD that came with the computer by holding down the C key during restart.
2.	When the Installer opens, choose Open Disk Utility from the Installer menu.
3.	When the Disk Utility opens, all disk and volumes are listed on the left side. If you don't see the internal hard drive, the system is not recognizing it; go to the next step. Otherwise, select the First Aid pane and follow the instructions to verify and repair the hard disk, if needed. Restart the computer.
4.	If Disk Utility does not recognize the hard drive, check the hard drive fiex cable for damaged connectors (connector peeled off the fiex cable, for example), and replace the cable if necessary.
5.	Reseat the hard drive fiex cable. If still not recognized, replace the hard drive. NOTE If the computer is under warranty and data recovery is required, refer to Knowledge Base document 31077, “DriveSavers: Hard Drive Data Recovery & Warranty Implications.”
6.	Reinstall the system software using the software install and restore disc.

Computer Begins to Power Up (but Does Not Finish), the Blowers and Hard Drive Spin, Pressing Caps Lock Turns On LED, but There Is No Startup Chime or Video

1.	Reset the PMU using the procedure explained in “Resetting the PMU.”
2.	Check all cable and fiex connections to the logic board. Try restarting the computer.
3.	Replace the logic board.

System Shuts Down Intermittently

This issue can be a result of not using the 65 W power adapter with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW 800) or later computers. Confirm with the customer which adapter was in use when having this problem. The adapter can be identified by “65W” in the name and markings, and the metal securing-stud on the plug connector.

1.	Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC Card.
2.	Make sure a known-good, fully charged battery is fully inserted. Check that the battery latch is fully engaged and is not broken or getting caught before fully catching. Check the battery connection to the logic board.
3.	Make a visual inspection of the battery connector in the battery bay. Make sure all blades are visible and not bent. If damaged, replace the battery connector.
4.	Make sure that the computer is not overheating, the air vents are clear, and the computer is not used on a soft surface.
5.	Check that the blower cables are connected and the blowers are operational.
6.	Make sure all feet are still on the system bottom. If not, order a foot replacement kit.
7.	Check that the thermal material between the heat exchanger and logic board is in contact with both by unscrewing the logic board screws and gently pulling up on the left side of the board to verify resistance caused by adhesion from the thermal material. If the thermal material is not in contact with the heat exchanger and logic board, you must reinstall new thermal materials for the processor, control ASIC, and video chip.
8.	Remove the battery and connect a known-good 65 W power adapter and power cord or plug to a known-good power outlet; make sure the DC plug is inserted firmly. The DC plug should light up; if not, replace the Sound/DC-in board.
9.	Verify that the Sound/DC-in board cable is connected securely and the cable shows no signs of wear.
10.	Try a known-good Sound/DC-in board.
11.	Replace the logic board.

Computer Shuts Down Almost Immediately After Startup

1.	Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC Card.
2.	Make sure that a known-good battery is fully inserted. Check the battery charge and make sure that at least two LED charge indicators light; otherwise, connect the adapter. The adapter should light amber when plugged in. If not, replace the adapter.
3.	After charging for a while, if the battery does not seem to charge, or if it charges up but quickly discharges, replace the battery. Verify a known-good battery.
4.	Check the battery connection to the logic board, and check the wire attachment to connectors.
5.	If a known-good battery does not charge, replace the Sound/DC-in board.
6.	Replace the logic board.

Application Quits, Kernel Panic, or Other Booting Problems

1.	If a specific application repeatedly quits, verify that the application is compatible with the installed version of Mac OS X; if so, reinstall.
2.	Reset parameter random-access memory (PRAM). Hold down Command-Option-P-R during startup until you hear the startup sound twice. NOTE Warning: Resetting PRAM will permanently remove a RAM disk, if present, and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the settings in Date & Time preferences.
3.	Run Disk Utility from the Software Install and Restore DVD, then click Repair Disk in the First Aid pane.
4.	Perform a clean install of the system software with the Software Install and Restore disc that came with the computer.
5.	Reboot the system.
6.	Run ASD in loop mode (Control-L) for an extended time to test the memory. If the test finds bad memory, replace the modules one at a time and test until you've replaced all bad modules with known-good modules.
7.	Replace the logic board.

Error Beeps

The computer automatically performs a power-on self test (POST) when it is turned on after being fully shut down (not a restart). This section describes what to do if you hear beeps during the startup.

Computer Beeps Once at Startup

One beep means that no RAM is detected. There is no RAM on the logic board of the PowerBook G4 (15-inch 1.67/1.5GHz), so the computer will beep if no memory is installed in at least one of the two RAM slots.

Put the original RAM that came with the computer back in, or put in a known-good and compatible module, and restart. Does the symptom repeat?

No: Replace the memory modules.

Yes: Replace the logic board.

Computer Beeps Twice at Startup

Two beeps means that EDO memory is installed in a RAM slot. The PowerBook does not accept EDO memory.

Replace RAM module or modules with known-good and compatible RAM, then restart. Does the symptom repeat?

No: Replace the memory modules.

Yes: Replace the logic board.

Computer Beeps Three Times at Startup

Three beeps means that no RAM banks passed memory testing.

1.	If a RAM module is installed in the upper expansion slot, remove it and restart; otherwise, go to the next step. Does the symptom repeat? No: Replace the memory modules. Yes: Replace the RAM in the lower RAM slot with a known-good and compatible module, then restart. If the symptom still repeats, replace the logic board.
2.	If a RAM module is not installed in the upper expansion slot, replace RAM in the lower RAM slot with a known-good and compatible module, then restart. Does the symptom repeat? No: Replace the memory modules. Yes: Replace the logic board.

Computer Beeps Four Times at Startup

Four beeps indicates a bad checksum for the remainder of the boot ROM. The ROM (which is located on the logic board) is bad.

Replace RAM module or modules with known-good and compatible RAM, then restart. Does the symptom repeat?

No: Replace the memory modules.

Yes: Replace the logic board.

AirPort Extreme Card

AirPort Extreme Card Is Not Recognized

1.	Choose Software Update from the Apple menu to verify that the latest AirPort software is installed.
2.	Restart the computer.
3.	Check that AirPort is enabled in Network preferences.
4.	Check the AirPort Extreme Card fiex cable connection to the logic board.
5.	Remove and reinstall the AirPort software.
6.	Replace with a known-good AirPort Extreme Card.
7.	Replace the logic board.

Airport Connection Is Slow

1.	Move the computer closer to the base station or other AirPort device.
2.	Too many users accessing network at the same time can cause heavy network traffic. To improve network connection speed, consider adding additional AirPort Base Stations.
3.	Check for other changes in the environment that may cause interference with the AirPort signal.
4.	Choose Software Update from the Apple menu to verify that the latest AirPort software is installed.
5.	Restart the computer.
6.	Check the AirPort Extreme Card fiex cable connection to the logic board.
7.	Replace with a known-good AirPort Extreme Card.
8.	Check the AirPort Extreme antenna wire coming from the display panel for a nicked insulator or crimped wire. If bad, replace the diversity board and cable assembly.
9.	Replace the logic board.

Battery

Battery Will Not Pop Up

1.	Flip over the computer and turn the battery latch clockwise.
2.	If the battery does not pop up, use a small plastic fiathead tool to pry up the battery around the battery latch.
3.	Verify proper latch operation by exercising the latch. If it does not move smoothly or evenly, replace the bottom case.
4.	If the latch does operate correctly, verify that the customer is not installing the battery with excessive force or that the body of the battery has not been deformed around its perimeter. NOTE Warning: If the battery plastic housing has been damaged, or the two halves of the plastic housing have separated, the battery is unsafe for use. If there is no sign of abuse (dents, scratch marks), replace the battery under warranty.
5.	Try a known-good battery.
6.	Replace the bottom case.

Battery Will Not Charge

1.	Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC Card.
2.	Try a known-good power outlet.
3.	Try a known-good 65 W power adapter and power cord. Make sure the DC plug is inserted firmly. The DC plug should light up; if not, replace the Sound/DC-in board. If the power adapter light is green, turn over the computer and press the battery button. The battery lights should glow green and stay on if the power adapter is operating correctly. NOTE The Apple 65-Watt Portable Power Adapter is highly recommended for use with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW 800) or later computer. The adapters can be identified by “65W” in the name and markings, and the metal securing-stud on the plug connector. Although previous 45 W power adapters (refer to Knowledge Base document 88231, “PowerBook and iBook: Apple Power Adapter”) are plug compatible with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW 800) or later, they may not provide sufficient power to operate the system during some activities and may draw power from the battery.
4.	Try a known-good battery. If it charges, replace the battery. If doesn't charge, check the battery connector and its connection to the logic board.
5.	Replace the battery connector assembly.
6.	Reset the PMU using the procedure explained in “Resetting the PMU.”
7.	Make sure the Sound/DC-in cable is connected firmly. Look for damaged insulation or wires.
8.	Replace the Sound/DC-in power cable.
9.	Replace the Sound/DC-in board.
10.	Replace the logic board.

Battery Will Not Charge Completely

If the battery appears to stop charging between 95 and 99 percent, this is normal operation. Refer to Knowledge Base document 88344, “PowerBook G4, iBook battery does not show full charge in Mac OS X.”

Short Battery Life

Refer to Knowledge Base documents 86440, “PowerBook, iBook: Battery Life”; 88231, “PowerBook and iBook: Apple Power Adapter,” 50666, “Tips for maximizing your PowerBook and iBook battery charge,” and 86284, “Calibrating your computer's battery for best performance.”

There are three scenarios to consider.

If there is a system issue (not the battery):

1.	If you have the customer's power adapter, plug it into a known-good outlet and verify that it can charge the system. Also make sure it is the correct 65 W adapter.
2.	Plug a known-good 65 W adapter into a known-good outlet. Verify that the DC connector is fully seated into the computer.
3.	Check whether the customer's system is set up for heavy battery power use (AirPort on, optical media always in drive, Processor Performance set to Highest in Options pane of Energy Saver preferences, etc.).
4.	Test the computer with all third-party devices removed.
5.	Reset the PMU using the procedure explained in “Resetting the PMU.”

If the battery needs calibration, or it is nearing the end of its useful life:

• Calibration should be done when you first use the battery, and every few months after. It allows the battery to properly calculate how much power is left in the battery.

• The battery is a consumable part. You can charge and discharge it only so many cycles before it becomes depleted and can no longer hold a charge.

If the battery has a defect:

1.

Symptoms include, but are not limited to, a relatively new battery that: Will not charge at all Displays an “X” in the Battery menu extra icon Has a status light on its case that will not go out In the first two cases, the battery may need calibration—try this first. In addition, after troubleshooting at the system level, if the battery causes abrupt shutdowns or goes to sleep without warning, the battery can be considered severely degraded; follow the suggestions below.

2.

After recalibrating the battery, test it under the performance test specified in Knowledge Base document 86440, “PowerBook, iBook: Battery Life.” If the battery lasts less than 2 hours, it is considered to have severely degraded performance.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth Preferences Does Not Appear in System Preferences

1.	Choose Software Update from the Apple menu to verify that the latest Bluetooth software is installed.
2.	Check the wire connectors to the Sound/DC-in board and the Bluetooth card. Make sure the cable is not damaged and fully inserted.
3.	Replace the Bluetooth card.
4.	Replace the logic board.

Other Devices Do Not Recognize Bluetooth Card

1.	Open Bluetooth preferences and make sure that the Discoverable checkbox is selected in the Settings pane.
2.	Verify that the Bluetooth antenna is connected to the Bluetooth card.
3.	Replace with a known-good Bluetooth card.
4.	Replace the diversity board and cable assembly.
5.	Replace the logic board.

Display

No Display, or Dim Display, but Computer Appears to Operate Correctly

1.	Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC Card.
2.	Make sure the F1 key is not stuck down.
3.	Press F2 (with the fn key pressed and not pressed) to increase the screen brightness setting.
4.	Reboot the computer by pressing Command-Control-power, or press and hold the power button for 5 to 10 seconds to shut down the computer, then press the power button to restart. NOTE The Apple 65-Watt Portable Power Adapter is highly recommended for use with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW 800) or later computer. The adapters can be identified by “65W” in the name and markings, and the metal securing-stud on the plug connector. Although previous 45 W power adapters (refer to Knowledge Base document 88231, “PowerBook and iBook: Apple Power Adapter”) are plug compatible with the PowerBook G4 (15-inch FW 800) or later, they may not have sufficient power to operate the system during some activities and may draw power from the battery.
5.	Verify that the inverter cable and LVDS cable connections are seated properly and that the cables are not damaged.
6.	Replace the inverter board.
7.	Replace the diversity board and cable assembly.
8.	Replace the logic board.
9.	Replace the LCD panel.

Computer Appears to Work, but No Video on External Device Connected to the TV Out Port (S-Video Out Port)

The device must be connected to the S-video port while the PowerBook is sleeping or off for the device to be recognized.

1.	Verify that the monitor used in testing is known-good and is supported by this computer.
2.	Try different cables.
3.	Replace the logic board.

No Video on an External VGA Device Connected to the External Monitor (DVI) Port

1.	Verify that the monitor that is used in testing is known-good and is supported by this computer.
2.	Try another DVI-to-VGA adapter cable.
3.	Restart the computer and test again.
4.	Replace the logic board.

No Display or Dim Display, but Can Display External Video

1.	Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC Card.
2.	Try to adjust display brightness with the F1 and F2 keys on the keyboard.
3.	Open Displays preferences and check brightness. If adjusting the brightness works, replace the keyboard.
4.	Check the connection of the inverter cable to the main logic board.
5.	Check the inverter cable connection to the inverter board and the inverter to the LCD cable connection.
6.	Replace the inverter board.
7.	Replace the diversity board and the cable assembly.
8.	Replace the display panel.
9.	Replace the logic board.

Display Has Repetitive Patterns

1.	Check the LVDS connection on the logic board.
2.	Replace the logic board.

Display Shows Shifted Color Patterns

1.	Replace the LVDS cable.
2.	Replace the logic board.

Display Has Permanent Vertical or Horizontal Lines

1.	Replace the display panel.
2.	Replace the logic board.

Display Latch Does Not Work

When the display is being closed, a latch hook in the top of the display housing should be magnetically pulled down through the slot in the top case and secured by the latch mechanism. When the latch button is pushed, the hook should release and retract into the display housing.

1.	See “Latch Adjustment” in the Adjustments section of the service manual on the companion CD to verify the latch mechanism and latch hook operation, and make adjustments, if necessary.
2.	If the latch hook is broken, replace the display latch hook assembly.

Hard Drive

Hard Drive Will Not Initialize

1.	Start up from the Software Install and Restore disc that came with the computer (hold down the C key during restart).
2.	When the Installer opens, choose Open Disk Utility from the Installer menu.
3.	If Disk Utility recognizes the hard drive, format it in the Erase pane. If Disk Utility does not recognize the hard drive, reseat the hard drive fiex cable, or replace if needed.
4.	If still not recognized, replace the hard drive.
5.	Reinstall the system software using the Software Install and Restore disc.

Keyboard

No Response From Any Key on the Keyboard

1.	Remove any connected peripherals and eject any PC Card.
2.	Attach an external USB keyboard. If it doesn't work, go to step 6.
3.	Turn off the computer. Check the keyboard fiex cable connection to the trackpad, and the trackpad fiex cable connection to the main logic board (especially check the connectors for damage).
4.	Start up from the software install and restore disc that came with the computer (hold down the C key during restart, if possible) to verify that it is not a software problem.
5.	Replace the keyboard.
6.	Replace the top case.
7.	Replace the logic board.

No Keyboard Illumination

1.	Open Keyboard preferences and make sure the “Illuminate keyboard in low light conditions” checkbox is selected. Try using the computer in a dimly lit environment.
2.	Check the keyboard backlight cable connection to the trackpad. If it's bad, replace the top case.
3.	Replace the left and right ambient light sensors.
4.	Replace the logic board.

Keyboard Is Partially Illuminated

1.	Check the keyboard backlight cable connection to the trackpad assembly and the trackpad fiex cable connection to the logic board. If the connections look good, replace the keyboard.
2.	Replace the keyboard.

Microphone

Microphone Does Not Work

1.	Open Sound preferences and verify that the built-in microphone is selected in the Input pane.
2.	Check the signal level and level meter, and adjust the gain.
3.	Reset PRAM. Hold down Command-Option-P-R during startup until you hear the startup sound twice. NOTE Warning: Resetting PRAM will permanently remove a RAM disk, if present, and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the settings in Date & Time preferences.
4.	If there is no sound output from the internal speaker as well as the microphone not working, verify cable connections.
5.	Replace the speaker assembly (which contains the microphone).
6.	Replace the Sound/DC-in board fiex cable.
7.	Replace the Sound/DC-in board.
8.	Replace the logic board.

Modem

No Modem Dial Tone

1.	Check that the correct modem is selected in Network preferences.
2.	Try a known-good analog (not digital) telephone line.
3.	Try a known-good RJ-11 telephone cable.
4.	Verify that the RJ-11 telephone cable is not plugged into the RJ-45 Ethernet port.
5.	Inspect the RJ-11 connector and modem port for pin damage.
6.	Verify that the RJ-11 telephone cable is installed firmly in the modem port.
7.	Open System Profiler, then click Extensions. Check to see that the MotorolaSM56K and AppleI2SModem Family files are listed and loaded. If not, restart the system and check again. If still not visible, reinstall the system software.
8.	Open System Profiler, then click Modem. If System Profiler recognizes the modem, the modem is listed as “Jump.” If not, check the modem card connection.
9.	Check the RJ-11 wires to the modem board. If they are bad, replace the RJ-11 cable assembly.
10.	Check that the modem fiex cable is properly installed between the modem card and main logic board. Replace the cable if needed.
11.	Replace the modem card.
12.	Replace the logic board.

Modem Does Not Respond (Can Hear Dial Tone)

1.	Check that the correct modem is selected in Network preferences.
2.	Check that the modem application is configured properly.
3.	Open System Profiler, then click Extensions. Check to see that the MotorolaSM56K and AppleI2SModem Family files are listed and loaded. If not, restart the system and check again. If still not visible, reinstall the system software.
4.	Check that the modem fiex cable is properly installed between the modem card and main logic board. Replace the cable if needed.
5.	Replace the modem card.
6.	Replace the logic board.

Modem Intermittently Disconnects Or Low Performance

1.	Verify a known-good RJ-11 telephone cable (for example, the retaining clip is not broken off) and that it is installed firmly when used. If the telephone cable is bad, replace it.
2.	Ask the customer if the issue happens with only one particular phone line, but not another. The problem may be an issue with that particular phone line. Under bad line condition, try setting the modem script to start with a slower connect rate such as “Apple Internal 56K Modem (v.34).”
3.	If the customer indicates that the system disconnects under very high CPU loads such as burning DVDs and/or working with video-editing software, try connecting the modem without any applications running and see how the modem performs. Refer to Knowledge Base document 106642, “Mac OS X: Using Apple PPP Test Server,” to test the modem. If okay, ask the customer if the task of connecting the modem can be done separately or with fewer applications running simultaneously.
4.	Check the RJ-11 wires to the modem board. Replace the RJ-11 cable assembly if there are signs of damage.
5.	Check that the modem fiex cable is properly installed between the modem card and the main logic board. Replace the cable if needed.
6.	Replace the modem card.
7.	Replace the logic board.

Optical Drive

Inserting Discs Issue

1.	Verify that the disc is not warped and that it is a 12 cm circular disc.
2.	Check that a small disc or other foreign objects are not stuck inside. Remove the drive from the system to extract disc.
3.	Verify that the disc is pushed almost all the way into the slot.
4.	Check the optical drive fiex cable.
5.	Replace the optical drive.

Optical Drive Does Not Eject Disc

1.	Quit all applications to verify that the disc is not in use.
2.	Press and hold the Media Eject key at the top-right corner of keyboard. If that does not work, hold down the fn and Media Eject keys.
3.	Drag the disc icon to the Trash, or select it in the Finder and press Command-E.
4.	Choose Restart from Apple menu, then hold down the trackpad button as the computer boots.
5.	Reseat the optical drive mechanism. Make sure the drive is biased toward the back of the computer.
6.	Refer to the Take Apart instructions in the service manual for instructions on removing the stuck disc and replacing the optical drive.

Optical Disc Icon Does Not Appear on Finder Desktop, or a Dialog Appears to Initialize Disc

1.	Verify that the correct type of disc is being used for the type of drive (a CD-ROM or CD-RW drive reads CDs only; DVD-ROM, Combo, and SuperDrive devices read CDs and DVDs).
2.	Try cleaning the disc. If it is dirty or scratched, it may not mount.
3.	Try a different disc.
4.	Reseat the optical drive cable.
5.	Replace the optical drive cable.
6.	Replace the optical drive.

Difficulty Writing to Optical Media

There are two factors in the ability for the optical drive to write to media. First, there are varying qualities of blank optical media. Some media are made to such low specifications that the ability for the drive to write to it is marginal. There are variations in optical media even under the same brand. Some brands source their optical media from a variety of manufacturers, so there may be variations in the quality.

Second, an optical drive that supports writing to a CD-R/RW or DVD-R/RW disc requires a special writing algorithm for discs from different disc manufacturers. There are hundreds of disc manufacturers; it is impossible to implement writing algorithms for each one. Usually, drive manufacturers implement special writing algorithms for discs from major disc manufacturers. For discs that are not supported by the drive with special writing algorithms, the drive will use a generic writing algorithm to write the disc. In this case, the writability and readability may not be optimal.

1.	Verify that the correct type of disc is being used for the type of drive (a CD-ROM or CD-RW drive reads CDs only; DVD-ROM, Combo, and SuperDrive devices read CDs and DVDs).
2.	Try a different brand or speed of CD-R disc.
3.	Replace the optical drive fiex cable.
4.	Replace the optical drive.

PC Card

PC Card Cannot Be Inserted

1.	Make sure that the PC Card eject button is pressed in before attempting to insert a PC Card.
2.	Carefully raise the PC Card slot cover and check for a foreign object inside the slot.
3.	Make sure that the PC Card is right-side up (cards are keyed and cannot be inserted upside down).
4.	Verify that the PC Card is not warped or damaged in any way; if so, replace the card.
5.	Try a different PC Card.
6.	If the slot cover is preventing the card from being inserted, replace the top case.
7.	Replace the PC Card cage.

PC Card Does Not Mount on Finder Desktop

1.	Make sure the PC Card's drivers, if any, are installed.
2.	Try a known-good PC Card.
3.	Check the PC Card cage fiex cable connection to the logic board.
4.	Replace the PC Card cage.
5.	Replace the logic board.

Ports

USB Port Does Not Recognize Devices

1.	Choose Shut Down from the Apple menu, then press the power button to restart the computer.
2.	Choose Software Update from the Apple menu to verify that the latest software is installed.
3.	Try a known-good Apple USB keyboard or mouse to verify that the port is working properly. If the left port is bad, check the Sound/DC-in board fiex cable and connections. If the right port is bad, check the backup battery fiex cable and connections.
4.	If the USB fiex cables are fine, replace the Sound/DC-in board for the left USB port or the backup battery board for the right port.
5.	Use System Profiler to verify that the computer is recognizing the bus. If not, replace the logic board.

USB Device Not Recognized By Computer

If you are trying to use a serial device with a USB/serial adapter, check with the adapter's manufacturer for compatibility.

1.	Choose Shut Down from the Apple menu, then press the power button to restart the computer.
2.	Verify that the current driver for the device is installed.
3.	If using a USB camera, turn on the camera after initiating a download with the camera's application.
4.	Try the other USB port.
5.	Try a different USB device on the same port.
6.	Eliminate chain by plugging in only one peripheral.
7.	Try a known-good Apple USB keyboard or mouse to verify that the port is working properly. If the left port is bad, check the Sound/DC-in board fiex cable and connections. If the right port is bad, check the backup battery fiex cable and connections.
8.	If the USB fiex cables are fine, replace the Sound/DC-in board for the left USB port or the backup battery board for the right port.
9.	Replace the logic board.

FireWire Port Is Not Recognizing Devices

1.	Test the FireWire 400 and FireWire 800 ports by connecting to another computer using Target Disk Mode. MORE INFO Refer to Knowledge Base document 58583, “How to Use FireWire Target Disk Mode.” NOTE Warning: When in FireWire Target Disk Mode, use only one FireWire port at a time. Otherwise you risk corrupting the internal hard drive.
2.	Verify that third-party drivers are properly installed, if needed.
3.	Make sure the cables are firmly attached.
4.	Try a different cable.
5.	If the FireWire device is self-powered, make sure its power supply is connected and that the device's LED indicates that it is getting power.
6.	Replace the logic board.

Sound

No Sound, and External Device Is Chosen in Output Pane of Sound Preferences

1.	If there is nothing plugged into the headphone jack or USB ports, internal speakers should be chosen in the Output pane of Sound preferences.
2.	If not, and if nothing is plugged in, try plugging in headphones or external speakers. Restart the computer. Remove the device.
3.	Reset PRAM. Hold down Command-Option-P-R during startup until you hear the startup sound twice. NOTE Warning: Resetting PRAM will permanently remove a RAM disk, if present, and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the settings in Date & Time preferences.
4.	Check the sound board fiex cable to see if the cable is properly seated, the connection is good, and there is no cable damage.
5.	Replace the sound board.
6.	Replace the logic board.

No Sound From Speakers

1.	Choose Software Update from the Apple menu to verify that the latest audio update has been installed.
2.	Press the F3 key (with the fn key pressed and not pressed) to verify that the mute mode is not enabled.
3.	Press the F4 or F5 key (with the fn key pressed and not pressed) to check the volume setting.
4.	Verify that no external speakers or headphones are plugged in.
5.	In Sound preferences, confirm that there are no external speakers or headphones chosen in the Output pane.
6.	Choose Shut Down from the Apple menu, then press the power button to restart the computer.
7.	Reset PRAM. Hold down Command-Option-P-R during startup until you hear the startup sound twice. NOTE Warning: Resetting PRAM will permanently remove a RAM disk, if present, and all of its contents. You will also need to reset the settings in Date & Time preferences.
8.	Verify that the speaker cable is connected properly to the sound board.
9.	Check the speaker cable. Verify left and right cable connections.
10.	Plug in headphones or external speakers; if you hear audio, replace the speaker assembly.
11.	Replace the sound board fiex cable.
12.	Replace the sound board.
13.	Replace the logic board.

Distorted Sound From Speakers

1.	Verify the sound is correct with external speakers or headphones. If sound is correct, check speaker wire and connections.
2.	Check the balance setting in the Output pane of Sound preferences.
3.	Compare the same sound with two different units to make sure that the sound is actually distorted.
4.	Check speaker wire. If damaged, replace speaker assembly.
5.	Replace the sound board.
6.	Replace the sound board fiex cable.
7.	Replace the logic board.

Trackpad

Cursor Does Not Move When Using Trackpad

1.	Verify that no USB device is connected.
2.	Boot from the Software Install and Restore DVD to verify that it is not a software problem. If the trackpad works, restore the system software.
3.	Reset the PMU using the procedure explained in “Resetting the PMU.”
4.	Check the trackpad fiex cable connection to the logic board.
5.	Replace the top case.
6.	Replace the logic board.

The Cursor Intermittently Does Not Move or Moves Erratically

The user must touch with only one finger at a time and point directly down on the trackpad surface.

1.	With the computer off, use a non–static-inducing material to clean the trackpad surface.
2.	Completely shut down, then press the power button to start the computer.
3.	Reset the PMU using the procedure explained in “Resetting the PMU.”
4.	Try the unit on battery power. If the problem goes away, replace the power adapter.
5.	Place the Software Install and Restore DVD in the optical disc drive, press the start button, and hold down the C key. Check the cursor movement, to see if the problem is software.
6.	Check the trackpad fiex cable connection to the logic board.
7.	Replace the top case.
8.	Replace the logic board.

Miscellaneous Symptoms

Date and Time Reset Frequently

1.	Test the backup battery: a. Set Date & Time preferences. b. Choose Shut Down from the Apple menu. c. Remove the main battery and disconnect the power adapter for 10 minutes. d. Connect the power adapter, insert the battery, and power on the computer. If the date and time were lost, the backup battery may be dead or discharged. e. Remove the main battery from the unit and leave the PowerBook plugged in for at least 5 hours. NOTE If a discharged main battery is installed in the computer, recharging the backup battery may take up to 48 hours to completely charge. It is okay to use it while it is charging. f. If the date and time still reset, replace the backup battery cable.
2.	Replace backup battery board.
3.	Replace the logic board.

Sleep LED Does Not Come On When Lid Is Closed

1.	Put the computer to sleep by choosing Sleep from the Apple menu. If the sleep LED comes on, there is a problem with sensing the closed display. If the LED does not come on, skip to step 3.
2.	With the display housing removed, check the sleep magnet location on the LCD panel. If it is not positioned correctly, reposition it. If the magnet is missing, replace it with a new magnet.
3.	Check that the sleep LED is plugged into the logic board.
4.	Connect a USB mouse. Short the power-on pads on the logic board to boot the system, and use the mouse to choose Sleep from the Apple menu. Measure the voltage at the LED connector. If power is present, replace bottom case.
5.	Replace the logic board.