To reset the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) and SMC (system management controller) on your Macbook Pro, you can follow these steps:
1. Shut down your Mac completely by going to the Apple menu and selecting “Shut Down.”
2. Once your Mac is completely turned off, press and hold the Command (⌘), Option (⌥), P, and R keys on your keyboard.
3. While holding these keys, press the power button to turn on your Mac.
4. Keep holding the keys until you hear the startup sound for the second time, or if your Mac has a T2 security chip, until you see the Apple logo appear and disappear for the second time.
5. Release the keys and allow your Mac to continue starting up.
During this process, it’s important to note that your Mac’s monitor will not display anything, and you will not hear the startup sound until you release the keys. Holding the keys for at least 60 seconds ensures that your Mac completes the reset process correctly.
Now, let’s delve into the reasons why you might need to reset the NVRAM and SMC on your Macbook Pro and what these processes actually do.
The NVRAM, also known as PRAM (parameter random-access memory) on older Macs, stores certain settings that your Mac uses on a regular basis. These include display resolution, sound volume, startup disk selection, and time zone settings, among others. Resetting the NVRAM can help resolve issues related to these settings, such as incorrect display resolution or audio problems.
On the other hand, the SMC is responsible for managing various hardware-related functions on your Macbook Pro, such as power management, thermal management, battery charging, and keyboard backlighting. Resetting the SMC can help resolve issues related to these hardware functions, such as unexpected shutdowns, battery-related problems, or keyboard backlighting not working correctly.
In my personal experience, I’ve had to reset the NVRAM and SMC on my Macbook Pro a few times to troubleshoot certain issues. For example, I once encountered an issue where my Mac’s display resolution was stuck at a lower setting than usual. After resetting the NVRAM, the display resolution returned to normal, and the problem was resolved. Similarly, when I experienced unexpected shutdowns on my Mac, resetting the SMC helped resolve the issue and restored stable performance.
To summarize, resetting the NVRAM and SMC on your Macbook Pro can be a useful troubleshooting step for various hardware and software-related issues. By following the steps outlined above and holding the keys for at least 60 seconds, you can ensure that your Mac completes the reset process correctly. Remember that these resets will not delete any of your personal files or data, but they will reset certain settings back to their default values.