Service Source Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Mac mini (Mid 2007) © 2007 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.
Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Mac mini (Mid 2007) Contents Take Apart General Information 7 What’s New 7 Tools 9 Modify the Putty Knife 10 Mac mini Serial Number Location 11 Power Supply Serial Number Location 12 Thermal Pad 13 Top Housing 14 Removal Procedure 16 Replacement Procedure 19 AirPort Antenna 21 Removal Procedure 22 Replacement Procedure 23 Internal Frame 27 Removal Procedure 28 Replacement Procedure 31 Bluetooth Antenna 35 Removal Procedures 36 Replacement Procedure 38 Bluetooth Board
Memory 45 Removal Procedure 46 Replacement Procedure 47 Audio Board 51 Removal Procedure 52 Replacement Procedure 54 AirPort Extreme Card 56 Removal Procedure 57 Replacement Procedure 59 Hard Drive Sensor Cable Removal Procedure 65 Replacement Procedure 66 64 IR Board and Cable 68 Removal Procedure 69 Replacement Procedure 71 Hard Drive 74 Removal Procedure 75 Replacement Procedure 76 Optical Drive 78 Removal Procedure 79 Replacement Procedure 81 Fan 83 Removal Procedure 84 Replacement
Removal Procedure 112 Replacement Procedure 113 Troubleshooting General Information 115 System Serial Number Location 115 Power Adapter Serial Number 116 Thermal Pad 117 Ports 118 AirPort and Bluetooth Antenna Repair Strategy 119 Technical Specs 119 Technical Specs 120 Graphics and Video Support 120 Compatible Apple Displays 121 Memory Specifications 122 LED Status 123 How to Clean Your Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) 123 Reset the SMC (System Management Controller) 124 How to Reset the SMC 124 Reset the SMC
v
Service Source Take Apart Mac mini (Early/late 2006) Mac mini (Mid 2007) © 2006 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.
General Information What’s New August 2007 • • • Intel Core 2 Duo processors in all configurations Logic Boards -- 1.83 GHz (661-4446) and 2.0 GHz (661-4447) Hard Drive -- 80 GB (661-4419), 120 GB (661-4420), 160 GB (661-44432) September 2006 • • Logic Boards -- 1.66 GHz (661-4136) and 1.83 GHz (661-4137) Hard Drive -- 160 GB hard drive (661-4104, CTO option only) April 2006 • • The “No Power” troubleshooting symptom was updated. Check and reseat all the internal connectors.
• • • • • • • • • • Audio Board is new in this model. It slides into the I/O port and has a flexible cable attached to it. The audio board connects to the interconnect board. Interconnect board has been revised. It’s the board that connects to the optical drive and the hard drive. The flex cable from the audio board, and the Bluetooth, speaker, IR, and fan cables connect to this board.
Tools The following tools are required to service the computer: • ESD wriststrap and mat • Tweezers • Jeweler’s #0 Phillips screwdriver • Jeweler’s #1 Phillips screwdriver • Phillips #2 screwdriver • Black stick (922-5065), or other nonconductive nylon or plastic tool • Needlenose pliers • Soft cloth (to protect removed parts from scratches) • Screw tray • Putty knife (922-6761),1.
Modify the Putty Knife 1. If you don’t order a modified putty knife (922-6761) from Apple Service, purchase a putty knife with a 1.5-inch (38 mm), flexible metal blade. 2. Using sandpaper (150 grit), file down the end of the putty knife (on one side) until it’s slightly beveled. Rub the edge of the putty knife back and forth for about 2 minutes on the sandpaper.
Mac mini Serial Number Location The product serial number and Ethernet ID are located on the bottom housing.
Power Supply Serial Number Location 1. Locate the power supply. 2. Look closely into the opening on the end of the power supply.
Thermal Pad The thermal pad is located on the bottom housing. A new thermal pad is included with the logic board and the bottom housing, and the pads can be ordered separately as a kit (part number 922-6749). Replace the pad when: • • The logic board or the bottom housing is replaced The pad is torn, withered, or damaged Important: Never use thermal paste in place of the thermal pad. You must replace the thermal pad with a new identical pad. Procedure 1.
Top Housing Tools The only tool required for this procedure is a modified putty knife (part number 922-6761) Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Top Housing 14
Preliminary Steps 1. Shut down the computer. Warning: Always shut down the computer before opening it to avoid damaging its internal components or the components you are installing. Do not open the computer or attempt to install items inside it while it is on. 2. Unplug all external cables from the computer except the power cord. 3. Touch the metal case to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Removal Procedure Note: The following procedure demonstrates the case-opening on the previous Mac mini model. The top housing removal procedure is the same for the Mac mini (Early 2006) computer. 1. Place the computer on a clean, flat surface. 2. Turn the computer over so the ports are facing you and the bottom of the computer (gray color) is facing up. 3. Note: To avoid scratching the case, use caution when using the putty knife. Hold the putty knife with the beveled edge facing the bottom housing.
4. Gently release the internal latches by prying the tool away from the computer. Note: You will hear little popping sounds as the latches release and the bottom separates from the top housing, creating a gap at the top of the I/O panel. 5. Repeat the procedure on the right side of the computer.
6. Push the I/O panel upward until the top housing is removed. The popping sounds will continue as you push the I/O panel; this is normal. 7. Set the top housing aside.
Replacement Procedure 1. Align the rear I/O panel with the top housing. Make sure all the white latches on the sides of the unit are aligned as shown in the photo below. 2. Squeeze the unit together as shown. You will hear popping and cracking noises as you squeeze the unit together. Proceed to the next step.
3. If the computer doesn’t go together, check the EMI tab alignment (outlined below) and try again. Check that the metal EMI tabs aren’t bent. 4. Work your hands around the unit squeezing the top and bottom until they snap together and there are no visible gaps.
AirPort Antenna Tools • Phillips #0 screwdriver Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • Internal frame Important: If you replace the AirPort antenna, you must replace the Bluetooth antenna at the same time and vice versa. The AirPort and Bluetooth antennas MUST be installed by pairing under the same manufacturer (for example: Tyco’s Airport antenna with Tyco’s Bluetooth antenna). Do not mix different vendors’ antennas or they may interfere with each other.
Removal Procedure 1. On the internal frame, locate the spring and black plastic posts that the AirPort antenna is attached to. With your fingers, squeeze the black posts to release the AirPort antenna. 2. With the internal frame removed, the AirPort Extreme card is visible on the logic board. Disconnect the AirPort antenna cable from the connector on the AirPort Extreme card. Note: do not to bend the antenna cable. 3. Remove the Bluetooth antenna.
Replacement Procedure 1. Replacement Note: If you have a failed AirPort antenna, you must replace the Bluetooth antenna at the same time. The AirPort and Bluetooth antennas MUST be installed by pairing under the same manufacturer (for example: Tyco’s Airport antenna with Tyco’s Bluetooth antenna). Do not mix with different vendors’ antennas or they may interfere with each other. 2. Securely connect the AirPort Extreme antenna to the AirPort Extreme card.
4. Lower the internal frame onto the bottom housing. 5.
6. Check the location of the AirPort antenna cable again. Position the antenna as shown on the internal frame. 7. Squeeze the black posts as you attach the AirPort antenna to the posts on the internal frame.
8. Replace the four screws on the internal frame; one screw in each corner, with the longer screw (922-7324) attaching in the bottom left corner, near the LED cable. 9. Replace the top housing.
Internal Frame Tools Tools required for this procedure: • Phillips #0 screwdriver • Tweezers Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove the top housing and disconnect the AirPort antenna.
Removal Procedure 1. Turn the Mac mini so the front of the computer is facing you (the speaker is facing you). With a tweezers, disconnect the hard drive sensor cable from the logic board. 2.
3. With a jeweler’s Phillips # 0 screwdriver remove four screws on the internal frame; one screw in each corner of the internal frame. The bottom left screw is longer. 4. Lift the internal frame straight up and off the bottom housing.
5. The following parts are connected to the internal frame (black plastic frame): • Bluetooth antenna • Bluetooth board • Hard drive • Optical drive • Fan • Speaker • Interconnect board • IR board • Hard drive sensor cable Refer to the individual take-apart procedures to remove or replace any of these parts.
Replacement Procedure 1. If you removed any service parts from the internal frame, replace them. 2. Check that the Bluetooth board cable and Bluetooth antenna are routed into the two cable channels (on the left) on the internal frame. Note the routing of the Bluetooth antenna cable (the thinner cable). It routes under the two connectors (on the right), tucks under the bottom right corner of the interconnect board and routes along the side of the internal frame, and is held in place by two tabs. 3.
4. Route the AirPort antenna cable up through the opening in the internal frame. 5. Check that the power button cable is not pinched by the internal frame.
6. Replace the four screws on the internal frame securing the longer screw (922-7324) in the bottom left corner, near the LED cable. 7. Connect the flexible cable on the audio board to the interconnect board.
8. Replace the AirPort Extreme antenna onto the spring/post. Make sure it’s securely connected. 9. Replace the top housing.
Bluetooth Antenna Tools • • Phillips #0 screwdriver is required for this procedure. Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic tool) Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • Disconnect the AirPort antenna Important: If you replace the Bluetooth antenna, you must replace the AirPort antenna at the same time and vice versa.
Removal Procedures 1. Disconnect the flexible cable going from the audio board to the interconnect board. 2. Disconnect the Bluetooth antenna from the Bluetooth board.
3. Grab the Bluetooth antenna board shield (shown on the right) by its edges and give a firm tug upward. Release the rest of the antenna cable from the side tabs and pull the antenna free. Important: Take care handling the Bluetooth antenna as a bent or warped antenna will affect Bluetooth connectivity. 4. Remove and replace the AirPort antenna. Important: Replace both the AirPort and Bluetooth antennas if one or the other antennas fail. The antennas must be paired with the same vendor.
Replacement Procedure 1. Mount the Bluetooth antenna shield on the internal frame. Gently press the antenna shield a few times to make sure the spring is spongy . 2. Route the antenna along the side of the internal frame, tucking the antenna into the black tabs. Route the Bluetooth antenna around the bottom edge of the interconnect board .
3. Continue routing the Bluetooth antenna cable (thinner cable) along the front of the interconnect board and into the “outside” cable slot (visible on the left side of the picture). Note: The Bluetooth board -to-interconnect board-cable (thicker cable) routes into the “inside” cable slot, (or behind the Bluetooth antenna cable) on the internal frame. ) 4. Route the Bluetooth antenna around the underside of the Bluetooth board. Connect the antenna to the board. .
5. Connect the flexible cable to the interconnect board. 6. Replace the AirPort antenna. Note: Make sure the AirPort and Bluetooth are the same vendor manufacturer. 7. Replace the top housing.
Bluetooth Board Tools • • Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic tool) Jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • AirPort antenna Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Bluetooth Board 41
Removal Procedure 1. Disconnect the Bluetooth antenna (circled) from the Bluetooth board. 2. Remove the one Phillip’s screw and disconnect the Bluetooth cable from the Bluetooth board. Lift the board off the internal frame. Important: Take care handling the Bluetooth antenna as a bent or warped antenna will affect Bluetooth connectivity.
Replacement Procedure 1. Route the Bluetooth cable (thicker cable) into the inside cable channel and the Bluetooth antenna into the outside cable channel. 2. Position the Bluetooth board on the internal frame. Note: The board tucks under a tiny lip (on the frame) near the top left corner of the board. Position the cables so they go under and around the edge of the board. Connect the Bluetooth cable, the antenna, and replace the screw on the Bluetooth board. 922-7322 .
3. Attach the AirPort antenna /shield to the posts on the internal frame. 4. Replace the top housing.
Memory Tools The only tool required for this procedure is a Jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver.
Removal Procedure 1. Press the metal latches outward to release the memory DIMMs.. 2. The DIMM will pop up slightly. Pull the DIMM from the slot on the logic board.
Replacement Procedure 1. Install the DIMM module into the slot on the logic board. 2. Line up the notch on the DIMM with the notch on the slot. Important: Press the DIMM into the slot until it clicks into place. 3. Press down on the sides and center of the DIMM so the metal latches grab the DIMM . 4. Lower the internal frame/drive module sub assembly onto the bottom housing. Align the gold fingers of the interconnect board with the matching connector on the logic board.
5. Route the AirPort antenna cable up through the opening in the internal frame. 6. Check that the power button cable is not pinched by the internal frame.
7. Replace the four screws on the internal frame. 8. Connect the flexible cable on the audio board to the interconnect board.
9. Replace the AirPort Extreme antenna onto the spring/post. Make sure it’s securely connected. 10. Replace the top housing.
Audio Board Tools • Jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • AirPort antenna Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Audio Board 51
Removal Procedure 1. Disconnect the flexible cable from the interconnect board. 2. Remove the internal frame to avoid damaging components on the audio board. 3. Place your finger under the audio board to support the board as you remove the screw. The audio board should lift out of the ports without much resistance.
4. Rotate the front of the board up from the tab, then pull the board up and out, keeping clear of the mounting standoff.
Replacement Procedure 1. Be sure that audio connectors are properly aligned and seated completely within the rectangular recesses of the audio frame. Ensure that they are fully seated. When they are seated, the board should rotate down into position on the standoff without resistance. , 2. Replace the audio board screw. Important: Support the underside of the audio board with your finger as you tighten the audio screw.
3. Replace the internal frame onto the bottom housing. 4. Replace the four screws that secure the internal frame to the bottom housing. The longer screw attaches to the bottom left corner, near the LED. 5. Connect the flexible cable to the interconnect board. 6. Connect the AirPort antenna to the internal frame. 7. Replace the top housing.
AirPort Extreme Card Tools • • Jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver Needlenose pliers Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • Internal frame Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart —AirPort Extreme Card 56
Removal Procedure 1. Disconnect the AirPort antenna cable from the connector on the AirPort Extreme card. Note: do not to bend the antenna cable. 2. With a jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver, remove the screw on the AirPort Extreme card.
3. The card will pop up when the screw is removed. Pull the card from the slot on the logic board. 4. If you are replacing the AirPort Extreme card, remove the plastic standoff and transfer the standoff to the replacement AirPort Extreme card.
Replacement Procedure 1. Install the AirPort Extreme card into the slot on the logic board. 2. Press the card down and replace the screw.
3. Attach the AirPort antenna to the AirPort Extreme card.. 4. Lower the internal frame/drive module sub assembly onto the bottom housing. Align the gold fingers of the interconnect board with the matching connector on the logic board.
5. Route the AirPort antenna cable up through the opening in the internal frame. 6. Check that the power button cable is not pinched by the internal frame.
7. Replace the four screws on the internal frame. Note: The longer screw attaches to the bottom left corner, near the LED. 8. Connect the flexible cable on the audio board to the interconnect board.
9. Replace the AirPort Extreme antenna onto the spring/post. Make sure it’s securely connected. 10. Replace the top housing.
Hard Drive Sensor Cable Tools • Black stick or other nonconductive tool, Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • AirPort antenna Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Optical Drive 64
Removal Procedure 1. Using a tweezers, disconnect the hard drive sensor cable from the logic board. 2. Remove the internal frame. 3. Remove the hard drive. 4. Remove the optical drive. 5. Free the sensor cable from the cable channel. Pull the hard drive sensor cable out of the internal frame.
Replacement Procedure 1. Tuck the sensor cable into the internal frame and route the cable into the channel and around the black pole on the internal frame (near the fan) . 2. Replace the optical drive. 3. Replace the hard drive. 4. Check the cable routing again before turning the frame over and attaching the internal frame to the bottom housing.
5. Replace the four internal frame screws. Note: The longer screw goes into the bottom left corner, near the LED connector. 6. Connect the sensor cable to the logic board with a pair of tweezers. 7. Replace the AirPort antenna and the top housing.
IR Board and Cable Tools • Jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • Disconnect the AirPort antenna • Disconnect the hard drive sensor from the logic board • Internal frame Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — IR Board 68
Removal Procedure 1. Using a jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver, remove the screw from the IR (infrared) board. 2. Note the cable routing from the front before you flip the internal frame over (toward you) and disconnect the cable from the interconnect board.
3. Remove the IR cable from the cable channel. 4. Disconnect the IR cable from the lower connector on the interconnect board.
Replacement Procedure 1. Connect the IR connector to the lower connector on the interconnect board and route the cable up into the cable channel on the internal frame. 2. Tuck the cables under the tabs near the interconnect board. Route the cable around the pole near the fan.
3. Flip the internal frame over and route the cable through the internal frame as shown below. Replace the screw on the IR board. 4. Replace the internal frame onto the bottom housing. Replace the four screws, with the longer screw attaching to the bottom left corner near the LED. 5. With a tweezers, connect the hard drive sensor cable (near the speaker) to the logic board. 6. Connect the Airport antenna to the internal frame. 7. Replace the top housing.
Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — IR Board 73
Hard Drive Tools • • Phillips #1 screwdriver Black stick or other nonconductive tool, Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • Internal frame • Disconnect the AirPort antenna Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Hard Drive 74
Removal Procedure 1. Flip the internal frame over to see the hard drive. Using a Phillip’s #1 screwdriver, remove the four hard drive screws. 2. With a black stick or other nonconductive tool, pry the hard drive off the connector on the interconnect board. Pull the hard drive in the direction of the speaker.
Replacement Procedure 1. With the circuit-side of the hard drive face up, slide the hard drive into the internal frame and under the two screw holes circled. Push the drive to the right and line up the hard drive pins with the interconnect board. Push the hard drive pins into the interconnect board connector. 2. Replace the four hard drive screws.
3. Make sure all the cables are tucked under the internal frame as shown. 4. Flip the internal frame over. 5. Replace the internal frame on the bottom housing. Replace the four internal frame screws. 6. Connect the AirPort antenna cable. 7. Replace the top housing.
Optical Drive Tools • • Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic tool) Jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • Internal frame Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Optical Drive 78
Removal Procedure 1. Using a jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver, remove the two optical drive screws on the side of the internal frame that has the Bluetooth antenna. Rotate the internal frame 180 degrees. 2. Remove the other two optical drive screws.
3. Using a jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver, remove the two screws on the interconnect board. 4. Holding the optical drive by the sides, use a black stick to pry the optical drive connector off the interconnect board. Remove the optical drive from the internal frame. 922-6680 .
Replacement Procedure 1. Hold the optical drive by its sides. Note: Never squeeze or handle the optical drive by the front or center; you could damage the optical drive. 2. Position the optical drive on the internal frame and connect the interconnect board to the optical drive connector. 3. Replace the two interconnect board screws.
4. Replace the optical drive screws on one side, then rotate the internal frame 180 degrees. 5. Replace the two remaining optical drive screws. 6. Lower internal frame onto the bottom housing. Replace the four internal frame screws. 7. Reconnect the AirPort antenna (if disconnected) to the black posts on the internal frame. 8. Replace the top housing.
Fan Tools The only tool required for this procedure is a jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver.
Removal Procedure 1. Remove the two fan screws with a jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver. 2. Free the fan from the internal frame (top left corner) and unhook the fan cable.
3. Disconnect the fan cable from the connector on the interconnect board. Replacement Note: If the fan connector is disconnected, the computer will quickly flash the LED and then shut off. 4. Lift the fan out of the internal frame.
Replacement Procedure 1. Tuck the fan under the internal frame and route the cable into the cable channel. 2. Replace the two fan screws with a jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver.
3. Connect the fan cable to the upper connector on the interconnect board and route the cable as shown below. Replacement Note: If the fan connector is disconnected, the computer will quickly flash the LED and then shut off. 4. Turn over the internal frame. 5. Replace the internal frame and four screws. 6. Connect the AirPort antenna to the internal frame. 7. Connect the hard drive sensor cable to the logic board. 8. Replace the top housing.
Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Fan 88
Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Fan 89
Interconnect Board Tools Required • • Jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver Black stick or nonconductive tool Preliminary Steps Before you begin remove • Top housing • Disconnect the AirPort antenna • Internal frame Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Interconnect Board 90
Removal Procedure 1. Disconnect the four cables (Bluetooth, IR, fan, and speaker) attached to the interconnect board 2. Using a jeweler’s Phillips #0 screwdriver, remove two screws on the interconnect board.
3. Remove the optical drive screws; two on each side of the internal frame. 4. With a black stick or other nonconductive tool, pry the interconnect board off the optical drive connector and hard drive pins.
Replacement Procedure 1. With the gold pins on the interconnect board facing down, press the interconnect board onto the hard drive and optical drive connectors. 2. Connect the IR cable (A), the fan cable (B), and the speaker cable (C) to the interconnect board.
3. Replace the optical drive screws. Rotate the optical drive 180 degrees. 4. Replace the remaining two optical screws. 5. Make sure the cables are connected and routed into the cable channels. 6. Replace the internal frame and four screws.
7. Connect the AirPort antenna. 8. Replace the top housing.
Battery Tools No tools are required for this procedure.
Removal Procedure Using your finger or black stick, push the battery in and up to release it from the battery holder.
Replacement Procedure 1. Push the battery into the battery holder. 2. Replace the internal frame and four screws. 3. Connect the AirPort antenna. 4. Replace the top housing.
Speaker Tools • • Jeweler’s Phillips #1 screwdriver Black stick or other nonconductive tool Preliminary Steps Before you begin, remove • Top housing • Internal frame Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Speaker 99
Removal Procedure 1. Unhook the metal speaker shield from the internal frame. Pull the shield to the left and set it aside. 2. Using a jeweler’s Phillips #1 screwdriver, remove four shoulder screws.
3. Free the speaker cable from the cable clip on the internal frame. 4. Remove the speaker cable from the cable channel.
5. Disconnect the speaker cable from the interconnect board. The speaker connector is the only connector on the other side of the interconnect board. 6. Remove the speaker from the internal frame.
Replacement Procedure 1. Position the speaker into the internal frame. Replace the four screws. 2. Route the speaker cable along the cable channel. Connect the 2-pin speaker cable to the 2pin connector on the hidden side (see the next photo) of interconnect board.
3. Tuck the speaker cable into the internal frame. Make sure the speaker connector is securely fastened to the interconnect board. 4. Turn the internal frame over so the optical drive is on top. 5. Lower the internal frame onto the bottom housing. 6. Replace the four internal frame screws. 7. Connect the AirPort antenna to the internal frame. 8. Replace the top housing.
Logic Board Tools • • • Jeweler’s Phillips #1 screwdriver Tweezers Black stick (or other nonconductive nylon or plastic tool) Preliminary Steps Before you begin remove • Top housing • Disconnect the AirPort antenna • Internal frame Part Location Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Take Apart — Logic Board 105
Removal Procedure 1. Disconnect the power button cable from the logic board. 2. Disconnect the hard drive sensor and the power on LED from the logic board as you remove the internal frame.
3. Using a Torx 10 screwdriver, remove the logic board standoff screw in the top left corner. 4. Gently, pry the power-on LED connector away from the logic board as you lift the logic board up.
5. Gently lift and then pull the board out of the I/O ports. 6.
Replacement Procedure 1. Replace the thermal pad. Note: Replace the thermal pad on the bottom housing whenever you replace the logic board or the bottom housing, or if the pad is torn, withered, or damaged. 2. Transfer the memory from the old board to the replacement board. 3. Insert the logic board into the bottom housing. Line up the ports on the board with the openings on the bottom housing.
4. Using a tweezers, connect power-on cable, the hard drive sensor, and the LED cable. 5. Replace the logic board standoff screw. 6. Replace the internal frame and screws. 7. Connect the AirPort antenna. 8. Replace the top housing.
Bottom Housing Tools No tools are required for this procedure.
Removal Procedure When the logic board is removed you are left with the bottom housing.
Replacement Procedure 1. Replace the thermal pad (pink square). Important: Replace the thermal pad on the bottom housing whenever you replace the logic board, the bottom housing, or if the pad is torn, withered, or damaged. 2. Replace the logic board. 3. Replace the internal frame. 4. Replace the top housing.
Service Source Troubleshooting Mac mini (Early/lLate 2006) Mac min (Mid 2007) © 2006 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.
General Information System Serial Number Location The product serial number and Ethernet ID are located on the bottom housing.
Power Adapter Serial Number Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Troubleshooting — General Information 116
Thermal Pad The thermal pad is located on the bottom housing. A new thermal pad is included with the logic board and the bottom housing, and the pads can be ordered separately as a kit (part number 922-7330). Replace the pad when: • The logic board or the bottom housing is replaced • The pad is torn, withered, or damaged Important: Never use thermal paste in place of the thermal pad. You must replace the thermal pad with a new identical pad. Procedure 1.
Ports The Mac mini ports (Early/Late 2006) are shown below. • One FireWire 400 port (8 watts) • Four USB 2.
AirPort and Bluetooth Antenna Repair Strategy If you replace the AirPort antenna, you must replace the Bluetooth antenna at the same time and vice versa. The AirPort and Bluetooth antennas MUST be installed by pairing under the same manufacturer (for example: Tyco’s Airport antenna with Tyco’s Bluetooth antenna). Do not mix different vendors’ antennas or they may interfere with each other. Order 922-7602 which contains a paired AirPort and Bluetooth antenna.
• • • Optional external Apple USB Modem Wireless mouse Built-in speaker Technical Specs Mac mini (Early 2006) • • • • • • • • • • • • 1.5 GHz Intel Core Solo or 1.
Compatible Apple Displays The Mac Mini (Early /Late 2006) has a DVI-I port that supports DVI-compatible Displays. You can also use the included DVI to VGA adapter (M8754G/A) to connect a VGA monitor—the computer supports analog resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 pixels. Using an optional DVI to Video adapter (M9267G/A), you can connect to televisions, projectors or VCRs that use S-video or composite connectors.
The following Apple displays are not compatible with a Mac mini: Displays That Are Not Compatible Display Name Marketing Part Numbers Display Connector type Compatible? Apple Cinema HD Display (30-inch DVI) M9179LL/A DVI NOT compatible Apple Cinema Display (22-inch) M7478LL/A DVI NOT compatible Refer to Knowledge Base article 300652 for updates to this table. Memory Specifications The Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) has two internal SO-DIMM RAM slots.
LED Status The Mac mini has a power light located on the front of the computer in the bottom right corner below the optical drive slot. The LED displays a steady light, no light, or pulses, depending on the computer’s status. Here’s what the Mac mini’s LED is telling you.
Reset the SMC (System Management Controller) How to Reset the SMC The SMC (System Management Controller) is a microcontroller chip on the logic board that controls all power functions for your computer. If your computer is experiencing any power issue, resetting the SMC may resolve it. The SMC controls several functions, including: • Telling the computer when to turn on, turn off, sleep, wake, idle, and so on. • Handling system resets from various commands. • Controlling the fans.
Reset the SMC with the Top Housing Removed You can also reset the SMC by directly pressing the SMC reset switch located on the logic board. Follow these steps to access the SMC reset switch on the logic board. 1. Unplug all cables from the computer. 2. Remove the top housing. 3. If necessary, remove the internal frame to access the battery. 4. Measure the voltage of the battery in the battery holder. The battery should measure 2.6V to 3.0V.
Symptom Charts How to Use the Symptom Charts The Symptom Charts included in this chapter will help you diagnose specific symptoms related to the product. Because cures are listed on the charts in the order of most likely solution, try the cures in the order presented. Verify whether or not the product continues to exhibit the symptom. If the symptom persists, try the next cure. Note: If you have replaced a module, reinstall the original module before you proceed to the next cure.
No Video Computer starts up, but no video on display, there is a startup chime, fans and drive spins up, and the power LED is on 1. Make sure that the monitor is turned on and has power. Make sure that the display’s power cord is plugged into a working wall outlet, and that it’s properly connected to the power adapter. (To check if the wall socket is working, plug in a lamp or other electrical device.) 2.
Display shows ghosting (signal reflection) 1. Verify monitor that is used in testing is known-good and is supported by this computer. 2. Verify that the cables are correctly installed and firmly seated. 3. Connect a known-good display (if you have an extra one available). If it solves the issue, replace your display. 4. Try and known-good DVI to VGA adapter. 5. Replace the adapter cable. 6. Replace the logic board.
AirPort AirPort Extreme card not recognized If the Mac mini does not recognize an AirPort Extreme card, the card may not be seated correctly or it is inoperable. 1. Reseat the AirPort Extreme card making sure it is firmly seated into the slot on the logic board. 2. Make sure the AirPort cable is connected to the AirPort card. 3. Reassemble the computer and test. If the AirPort Extreme card is still not recognized, test with a known good AirPort Extreme card.
Can’t Connect to the Internet over AirPort The Mac mini recognizes an AirPort Extreme Card installed, but cannot connect to the internet over AirPort. Important: If you replace the AirPort antenna, you must replace the Bluetooth antenna at the same time and vice versa. The AirPort and Bluetooth antennas MUST be installed by pairing under the same manufacturer (for example: Tyco’s Airport antenna with Tyco’s Bluetooth antenna). Do not mix different vendors’ antennas or they may interfere with each other.
BlueTooth The Mac mini does not recognize the Bluetooth board If the Mac mini does not recognize Bluetooth, the board may not be seated correctly or is inoperable. 1. Reseat the Bluetooth board (located near the AirPort antenna). 2. Check that the Bluetooth cable is securely connected to Bluetooth board and to the Interconnect board. 3. Check that the Bluetooth antenna is securely connected to the Bluetooth board.
4. Reassemble the computer and test. If the Bluetooth board is still not recognized, test with a known good Bluetooth board. If the known good board is recognized, replace the Bluetooth board. 5. Replace the logic board. The Mac mini recognizes a Bluetooth board, but cannot pair with wireless devices.
2. With the top housing removed, make sure that the Bluetooth antenna is not damaged or warped on the receiver end of the cable. Make sure that this end is properly seated to the internal frame of the Mac mini. 3. Check to make sure that the antenna cable and receptors are not damaged or hindered when installing the top housing 4. Replace the Bluetooth and AirPort antennas and test again. 5. If the issue persists, replace the Bluetooth board. 6. Replace the Bluetooth-to- interconnect board cable.
IR Sensor/Receiver Supported applications do not respond to input from the remote control. 1. Perform the checks above under “IR Remote” to verify that the Apple Remote is functioning correctly, and retest. Do supported applications now respond to input from the IR remote? Yes: Problem resolved. No: Go to the next step. 2. Verify that the IR Sensor can be seen in the Apple System Profiler. Open the Apple System Profiler and click on the “USB” section.
Battery The computer won’t keep date and time, the date and time reset when the computer is powered off or unplugged 1. Make sure the electrical outlet works by plugging in a different device, or plug the computer into a different outlet. 2. Check the power cord. Use a known good power cord. 3. Check the connection of the power cord on both ends. Make sure that the plug is securely plugged into both the electrical outlet and the back of the computer. 4.
Optical Drive The optical disc drive does not accept discs (mechanical failure) 1. Verify disc is not warped. 2. Try another known-good disc. 3. Reseat the optical drive to the interconnect board. 4. Replace optical drive. 5. Replace the interconnect board 6. Replace the logic board. The disc icon does not show up on the desktop, or a dialog box appears to initialize disc 1.
Hard Drive Hard drive fails to boot to the desktop 1. Boot from Mac mini Mac OS X Install DVD and see if the hard drive mounts on the desktop. 2. Run Apple Hardware Test (AHT), located on the install DVD. 3. Run Disk Utility and correct any directory and permissions issues. 4. Erase and reformat the drive. 5. Verify that the hard drive is firmly connected to the interconnect board. 6. Try a known-good hard drive. 7. Erase and reformat the original drive. 8.
System hangs during normal startup process 1. Boot from the Mac mini Mac OS X Install DVD that came with the computer and see if the hard drive mounts on the desktop. 2. Run Apple Hardware Test (AHT), located on the install DVD. 3. Run Disk Utility and correct any directory and permissions issues. 4. Verify that the hard drive is connected to the interconnect board. 5. Try a known-good hard drive. 6. Erase and reformat the original drive. 7. Try a known-good interconnect board. 8.
Keyboard No response from any key on the USB keyboard 1. Check that the mouse and keyboard are compliant. The Mac mini has two USB 2.0 ports, which can be used with any USB 1.1- or USB 2.0-compliant keyboard and mouse. 2. Remove any connected peripherals. 3. Boot from the Mac mini Mac OS X system DVD to verify that it is not a software problem. 4. Disconnect the keyboard connector and inspect connectors. 5. Replace the keyboard. 6. Replace the logic board.
Ports The FireWire or USB port is not recognizing devices 1. Completely shut down, then press the power button to start the computer. 2. Use Software Update in Mac OS X system preferences to verify that the latest software is installed. 3. Use Apple System Profile to verify that the computer is recognizing the bus. 4. For USB, test ports with a compliant keyboard or mouse. 5. For FireWire, test by connecting another computer in FireWire Target Disk Mode.
Sound Distorted sound from speakers 1. Check balance in System Preferences: Sound: Output. Verify sound is correct with external speakers/headphones. 2. Check to see if the sound is the same from the internal speaker vs. external speakers. 3. Check that speakers are inserted correctly, and check cables for damage. 4. Compare same sound with two different units to make sure that sound is actually distorted. 5. Remove the top housing and internal frame. 6.
Display Dim display, but computer appears to operate correctly 1. Check that the display is compatible with the Mac mini. Refer to Knowledge Base article 300652: Mac mini: compatible Apple displays. 2. Check the brightness level in Display pane of System preferences. 3. Make sure that the monitor is turned on and has power. Make sure that the display’s power cord is plugged into a working wall outlet, and that it’s properly connected to the power adapter.
Fan Failure 1. Remove the top housing and the internal frame. 2. Check fan cable connection to the interconnect board, and check cable for damage. 3. Check that the hard drive sensor cable is connected to the logic board. 4. Replace fan. 5. Replace the interconnect board. 6. Replace logic board.
Service Source Views Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) Mac mini (Mid 2007) © 2006 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.
Exploded View Top Housing 922-7332 Hard Drive 661-3883, 2.5", 60 GB 661-3884, 2.5”, 80 GB 661-3885, 2.5”, 100 GB 661-3886, 2.5”, 120 GB 661-4104, 2.5”, 160GB 661-4419, 80 GB 661-4420, 120 GB 661-4432, 160 GB 661-4419, 2.
Screw Chart Mac mini (Early/Late 2006) 922-6680 #0 Phillips Note: Screws are not to scale 922-6681 - Optical drive (4) - Interconnect board (2) - Audio board (1) - AirPort card (1) - Hard drive (4) 922-7324 922-7434 #1 Phillips #1 Phillips 922-7325 - Logic board (3) #1 Phillips 922-7323 - Logic board (1), near LED - Logic board standoff - Fan (2) 922-7322 922-6925 922-7334 #0 Phillips - IR board (1) - Bluetooth board (1) - Speaker (4) #1 Phillips #1 Phillips #0 Phillips - Spring, Ai
