Resetting the SMC on a Mac

Common Signs or Symptoms:

  • Battery does not charge
  • System does not turn on
  • Fans run fast
  • Laptop gets too warm
  • Built-in camera does not function

Troubleshooting Steps:

The SMC (System Management Controller) is responsible for managing power on your Mac. Resetting it can resolve certain uncommon issues related to power or thermal management. SMC Reset steps vary, depending on the type of Mac.  See the section relevant to your particular type:

Mac with Apple Silicon

Make sure your Mac is plugged into power, then take one of these actions:

  • Restart: Choose Apple Menu, then > Restart
  • Shut Down: Choose Apple Menu, then > Shut Down

No other steps are necessary for Mac computers with Apple Silicon

Laptop Computer with the Apple T2 Chip

  1. Shut down your Mac
  2. On your built-in keyboard, press and hold all of the following keys.  Your Mac might turn on:
    • Control on the left side of the keyboard
    • Option (Alt) on the left side of the keyboard
    • Shift on the right side of the keyboard
  3. Keep holding all three keys for 7 seconds, then press and hold the power button as well.  If your Mac is on, it will turn off as you hold the keys.
  4. Keep holding all four keys for another 7 seconds, then release them.
  5. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac

Desktop Computer with the T2 chip

  1. Shut down your Mac, then unplug the power cord
  2. Wait 15 seconds, then plug the power cord back in.
  3. Wait 5 seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

Intel-based Mac Laptop

  1. Shut down your Mac
  2. On your built-in keyboard, press and hold all of these keys:
    • Shift on the left side of your keyboard
    • Control on the left side of your keyboard
    • Option (Alt) on the left side of your keyboard
  3. While holding all three keys, press and hold the power button as well
  4. Keep holding all four keys for 10 seconds
  5. Release all keys, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

Intel-based Mac Desktop

  1. Shut down your Mac, then unplug the power cord
  2. Wait 15 seconds, then plug the power cord back in.
  3. Wait 5 seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

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