Things to Know
If you are experiencing issues related to the following functions on your MacBook or iMac, you may need to reset the SMC (System Management Controller), this device acts like a small circuit breaker for your Mac and can be handy when addressing:
- Issues related to opening or closing your MacBook (Waking or Sleeping)
- Battery and Charging issues
- Power Button or Power to USB Ports
- Fan or cooling issues
- Ambient lighting or keyboard back lighting
It is important to always have your MacBook plugged in before continuing with the steps below.
How to Reset the SMC on a MacBook
1. Shut down (power down) your Mac.
2. Using the build-in keyboard, press and hold Control + Option + Right Shift, then press and hold the Power button at the same time for 10 seconds (One one thousand, Two one Thousand...).
3. Release all buttons.
4. Press and release the Power button to turn on your MacBook.
How to Reset the SMC on an iMac
1. Shut down (power down) your iMac.
2. Unplug the power cord.
3. Wait 15 seconds.
4. Plug the power cord back in.
5. Wait 5 seconds (One one thousand, Two one thousand...) then press the power button to turn on the iMac.