Sidebar Sidebar
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

Can't Start MacBook Pro After Changing RAM

Oka

Oka

macrumors member
Original poster
May 4, 2013
77
5
MacBook Pro Mid 2012

I needed to upgrade the MacBook Pro from (2)2gb to (2)4gb RAM.
After installing he new RAM modules, the device will not start. I put back the old set, it started.
When I restarted the device with the old RAMs it will not start.
I replaced with the new RAMs, it started. The battery is 90% charged.

I noticed, about 75% of the times, if I remove and put back the RAM (either new or old), with the power cable connected, it will start but will NOT restart the second time.

I have also tried with single module in the lower bank, with single module, still the same issue.

What on earth would be causing this?

Thanks.
 
matram said:
Wrong spec RAM for your computer?

Compare detailed timing spec for old and new RAM.
Click to expand...
Thanks for your replay and a hood question. Got the RAM for a very reputable dealer. They have the serial of the computer, a picture of the original RAM with it's specs; they want to send me new set of RAMs. For now, my hesitation is, same situation now happens even when I put back the old RAMs.

Thanks again.
 
Do you have corrosion in the ram sockets? Can happen in high humidity areas or if your MacBook was "spilled" on before.
 
magbarn said:
Do you have corrosion in the ram sockets? Can happen in high humidity areas or if your MacBook was "spilled" on before.
Click to expand...
Would a spill be able to reach that deep down there? First time ever opening the cover since 2012. The device has never been taken outside since it was purchased; has always been indoors. Humidity is not much of an issue (Anchorage, Alaska and DO NOT live up the mountain).

Thanks for your thoughts!
 
Oka said:
Would a spill be able to reach that deep down there? First time ever opening the cover since 2012. The device has never been taken outside since it was purchased; has always been indoors. Humidity is not much of an issue (Anchorage, Alaska and DO NOT live up the mountain).

Thanks for your thoughts!
Click to expand...
Liquid has funny ways of reaching every nook and cranny unfortunately.
 
UPDATES

The last few times I tried to start the computer, it will not start regardless of which RAM (old or new).
I opened the back and found this. Pushed it in, it started. It started three times I powered it up.

Now, I removed this ribbon to make it sit in good enough but I can't get this ribbon to line up inside enough. If I can get it to line up in enough, I would just put a small strong duct tape on the ribbon an on the female receptacle to hold the ribbon in well. Or, I can melt a glue stick over where the ribbon enters the receptor. This ribbon is very delicate.

Can this ribbon be replaced without taking it to Apple Store?

This ribbon does not seem to have a visible wire (pin) at the end, but it works when well inserted.
What should I do?

Thanks.
 

Attachments

  • MacBookPoConnector.jpg
    MacBookPoConnector.jpg
    388.8 KB · Views: 119
Are you sure you have a 2012 MBP 15 unibody?
That looks like the keyboard cable connector on a 2012 MBP 13, not 15
Your logic board looks like a MBP 2012 13" not a 15" which has the connector underneath a metal cage

If you're having problems figuring the connector out, STOP right now and bring in to a professional who can handle it. It takes a very light touch to connect ribbon cable like that and you can easily destroy your computer by breaking the cable or worse, the connector on the logic board.

If you're still willing to try to do it yourself, see this guide and fast forward to step 11

My other concern is how the heck did that cable come out anyway? Was your macbook repaired previously?
 
  • Like
Reactions: chabig
You must log in or register to reply here.
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.
Top Bottom
Back