To reset the PRAM (Parameter Random Access Memory) or NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) on your Mac, you can follow these steps:
1. Power off your Mac completely. Make sure it is turned off before proceeding.
2. Locate the following keys on your keyboard: Command (⌘), Option (or Alt), P, and R.
3. Press and hold down the Command (⌘), Option, P, and R keys simultaneously.
4. While holding these keys, press the power button on your Mac to turn it on.
5. Keep holding the keys until you hear the startup sound for the second time. On older Macs, the startup chime will sound twice.
6. Once you hear the second startup sound or see the Apple logo appear and disappear for the second time, you can release the keys.
7. Your Mac will continue to boot up normally. At this point, the PRAM or NVRAM should be reset.
It’s important to note that the PRAM and NVRAM store certain system settings, such as display resolution, sound volume, startup disk selection, and time zone. By resetting them, you are essentially restoring these settings to their default values.
Here are a few additional points to keep in mind:
– Resetting the PRAM or NVRAM should not cause any data loss or affect your files, but it’s always a good idea to have a backup of your important data, just in case.
– If you’re experiencing specific issues with your Mac, such as display problems, sound issues, or startup disk selection problems, resetting the PRAM or NVRAM can sometimes help resolve these issues.
– In some cases, you may need to reset the PRAM or NVRAM multiple times before noticing any changes or improvements.
– If you have a Mac with the Apple Silicon M1 chip, the process of resetting the PRAM or NVRAM is slightly different. You can follow Apple’s official instructions for resetting NVRAM on Macs with Apple Silicon.
Resetting the PRAM or NVRAM is a simple troubleshooting step that can help resolve certain system issues on your Mac. It’s worth trying if you’re experiencing any problems, but always remember to backup your data and consult official documentation if you’re unsure about any steps.