Hardware Diagnostics & Repair Flashcards

A Mac Pro fails to recognize a newly installed RAM DIMM. What should the technician verify first?

Answer: The DIMM is seated in a validated slot configuration per Apple's guide

Mac Pro RAM must be installed in specific slot configurations as documented by Apple; incorrect slot placement results in the DIMM not being recognized.

What does 'Three Beeps at Startup' indicate on an Intel-based Mac?

Answer: RAM failure or incompatibility

Three beeps at startup on an Intel Mac indicate a RAM failure, including bad RAM, incompatible RAM, or RAM not seated properly.

Which Apple process must be completed before returning a replaced part to Apple under the repair program?

Answer: Core return process through GSX

Technicians must complete the core return process in GSX (Global Service Exchange) to send replaced parts back to Apple and avoid being charged.

Which condition would prevent an ACMT technician from performing a repair without customer authorization?

Answer: Additional damage is discovered beyond the original reported issue

If additional damage is discovered, the technician must stop and obtain new customer authorization before proceeding to avoid unauthorized charges.

What is the purpose of System Management Controller (SMC) reset on Intel-based Macs?

Answer: To resolve issues related to power, fans, battery, and thermal management

Resetting the SMC resolves a range of hardware-related issues including abnormal fan behavior, power problems, and incorrect battery status on Intel Macs.

A MacBook's fans run at maximum speed constantly even when the CPU is idle. What is the most appropriate first step?

Answer: Reset the SMC

Constant full-speed fan operation is a classic symptom of an SMC issue, and resetting the SMC is the first recommended step before hardware replacement.