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cathyy

macrumors 6502a
Original poster
Apr 12, 2008
727
4
Okay I own an early 2008 Macbook Pro. I've never had any major problems until now. Anyway I put my computer to sleep earlier by closing the lid, but when I opened it, the monitor still showed a black screen. I waited a bit but nothing happened, and I turned off the whole thing.

When I tried to turn it on again, the machine makes the usual startup noise (hardware noise, NOT the bootup chimes), but the LCD remains black. There are no startup chimes. Also there's that white light indicator that tells you whether the Mac is sleeping or not...well, there's a faint white light on.

My battery is at full charge, and it's plugged in. I'm guessing there's a potential motherboard/GPU failure or possibly even LCD failure, but I'd like to get everyone's opinions first before bringing it into the Apple shop tomorrow morning.

In the event that there is a motherboard/GPU failure, is there a chance that I could be given a new Macbook Pro? There's a manufacturing defect with the LCD panel that's purely cosmetic and I was told that it warrants a replacement, but I haven't had the time to bring it in for it yet. Would the combined cost of a Motherboard + LCD replacement be enough to have them consider giving me a new Macbook Pro?

Lastly, yes, it's still under warranty.
 
To me it almost sounds like the graphics processing unit/logic board has failed.

You could try performing a Parameter RAM (or "PRAM") reset along with an System Management Controller (or "SMC") reset to see if the situation changes, however by your description I doubt it'll make a difference.

To reset the parameter RAM settings:
  1. Turn your computer off.
  2. Turn the computer back on.
  3. Immediately hold down Command-Option-P-R until you hear the computer chime twice, then release the keys.
To reset the System Management Controller on your computer (which has a removable battery):
  1. Shut down the computer.
  2. Disconnect the MagSafe power adapter from the computer, if it's connected.
  3. Remove the battery.
  4. Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds.
  5. Release the power button.
  6. Reconnect the battery and MagSafe power adapter.
  7. Press the power button to turn on the computer.

Failing that, I'd recommend taking the computer into an Apple Store or contacting AppleCare to arrange for repair.

Usually, they won't outright replace a computer unless there have been several failed repair attempts or it's more economical for them to do so. However, you could always suggest the idea to them based on the failure of the logic board and the LCD screen and see what they have to say, there's no harm done in doing so.

Best of luck and have a great day.
 
If it's the logic board and it's still under warranty Apple will replace that part, not the machine. After 4 parts have failed while still in warranty then they will replace the machine.

Best thing is to take it straight to an Apple store, they'll sort it out within a day or 2. :)
 
If it's the logic board and it's still under warranty Apple will replace that part, not the machine. After 4 parts have failed while still in warranty then they will replace the machine.

Best thing is to take it straight to an Apple store, they'll sort it out within a day or 2. :)

Technically I would have 4 failed parts. I've had a Wireless card and battery replacement before. Now I've got a faulty LCD and possibly a dead motherboard. I've also had my charger replaced before.
 
Technically I would have 4 failed parts. I've had a Wireless card and battery replacement before. Now I've got a faulty LCD and possibly a dead motherboard. I've also had my charger replaced before.

The LCD, wireless card and logic board would qualify but the battery and charger don't unforutantly, battery being a naturally degrading object and the charger being separate all together.

To be fair the guys in the apple stores are very understanding so mention it, you never know!
 
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