Macbook wont turn on (reward)

[DewGuy1999]

Original charger supplied with macbook was an official apple one. I snapped the head off accidentally, my fault not apples.

Second replacement charger was again an official apple one. This time it literally started coming apart after a couple of weeks. Was so expensive I decided to replace with an unofficial one so...

Borrowed my friend's unofficial one. Worked absolutely 100% perfect.

He needed it back the other week so I ordered the same one he had and I've had it for a week, again working fine.

From what it looks like, I can't believe I basically used my entire life savings on an apple mac (£650...was with a discount!!) when it's literally turned into a brick. I should have just bought a £300 laptop, it may not have been as good and may have gotten viruses every now and then, but at least it would have been cheaper and lasted longer.
IMHO, apple merks windows at every aspect of the computer. However, such a big fault that i've got (been reported by literally 100's) shouldn't be allowed to happen on such a grand scale, im really dissapointed.

If the second one "literally started coming apart after a couple of weeks" why didn't you contact Apple about it? Do you think that it falling apart after a couple of weeks is expected of an Apple product?

You know it's possible that the charger has something to do with this. Why do I say that, because Apple's MagSafe charger is a Patented device. The manufacture of MagSafe chargers are not licensed to any other company. Recently Apple sued a couple of companies for illegally producing these knockoffs. Since they're not licensed or manufactured by Apple it's impossible to tell from the fact that it "worked absolutely 100% perfect" that it was within Apple's specs or that it didn't cause damage to the logic board or the battery.

 

[Ninos]

Also, if this does work, please do not give me a reward. Give it to someone else. I help people on this site free. and will continue to do so.

Unfortunately it didn't. As I've posted before, the battery isn't dead. Thanks anyway

If the second one "literally started coming apart after a couple of weeks" why didn't you contact Apple about it? Do you think that it falling a apart after a couple of weeks is expected of an Apple product?

You know it's possible that the charger has something to do with this. Why do I say that, because Apple's MagSafe charger is a Patented device. The manufacture of MagSafe chargers are not licensed to any other company. Recently Apple sued a couple of companies for illegally producing these knockoffs. Since they're not licensed or manufactured by Apple it's impossible to tell from the fact that it "worked absolutely 100% perfect" that it was within Apple's specs or that it didn't cause damage to the logic board or the battery.

No, I don't think it's expected of an apple product. As I've mentioned previously in this thread, I do think apple products are high quality (however there are such common widespread problems, eg. my current problem, that aren't fixed, which I do class as a major apple neglection). In relation to this, apple products are well worth their price, but to spend all my savings on something then a problem such as this occurring again is a great shame.

Could the charger have given this problem? The day I was using it I hadn't had it on charge, and this morning when the problem arose, again I hadn't used the charger. My macbook has a long battery life. The problem just happened all of a sudden. Also, I've been using this charger for a good 12-18 months so I'm sure if it was the charger the damage would have happened a lot sooner rather than it did? Anyway, you're the expert and I'm not so I guess I'm wrong (this kinda sounds sarcastic but It's not).

 

[DewGuy1999]

Unfortunately it didn't. As I've posted before, the battery isn't dead. Thanks anyway



No, I don't think it's expected of an apple product. As I've mentioned previously in this thread, I do think apple products are high quality (however there are such common widespread problems, eg. my current problem, that aren't fixed, which I do class as a major apple neglection). In relation to this, apple products are well worth their price, but to spend all my savings on something then a problem such as this occurring again is a great shame.

Could the charger have given this problem? The day I was using it I hadn't had it on charge, and this morning when the problem arose, again I hadn't used the charger. My macbook has a long battery life. The problem just happened all of a sudden. Also, I've been using this charger for a good 12-18 months so I'm sure if it was the charger the damage would have happened a lot sooner rather than it did? Anyway, you're the expert and I'm not so I guess I'm wrong (this kinda sounds sarcastic but It's not).

No I'm not the expert. I'm just someone trying to help. Heck I don't even have a notebook computer, Mac or otherwise. I understand that you're distraught, but we're doing everything we can to help from this distance. As best as I can tell from here, you've got a power related problem. Maybe it's the logic board, maybe it's the battery, maybe it's the charger, maybe it's the power cables? I can't give you a definitive answer.

If this is your 3rd charger and you've been using it 12-18 months how old is the MacBook? Have you upgraded anything on it? Has it ever given you any problems in the past? When the power light on the MacBook is on can you hear the fans running? When the power light on the MacBook is on can you hear the hard drive working? If you type on the keyboard or click with the mouse do you get an error sound? If you leave the charger connected (even if the light doesn't come on) does the charge level on the battery increase?

 

[ouimetnick]

Did you reset the SMC and NVRAM?

NVRAM
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1379?viewlocale=en_US

SMC
http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3964

It may not fix the issue, but it doesn't hurt to try it.

 

[revelated]

I'm going out on a limb and say it's something electrical. If you got a knockoff charger it may have shorted something out internally.

Don't know if you already tried opening it or not. I'd be curious to know if you smelled anything burning inside as it may narrow things down.

Besides that, I agree that instead of PayPaling people here who are speculating, I would use that money and pay the support fee to Apple for their assistance. You'll at least get a definitive answer that way.

 

[flyfish29]

Also, I've had it anywhere between 1-2 years so I think my warranty is out...i'm not sure how long the warranty lasts.

Ok- so your MacBook is 1-2 years old....and you really don't know how old it is exactly.....hmmmm

Second replacement charger was again an official apple one. This time it literally started coming apart after a couple of weeks. Was so expensive I decided to replace with an unofficial one so...

Borrowed my friend's unofficial one. Worked absolutely 100% perfect.

He needed it back the other week so I ordered the same one he had and I've had it for a week, again working fine.

then you say you have had the third charger cord for a week...hmmm...

Also, I've been using this charger for a good 12-18 months so I'm sure if it was the charger the damage would have happened a lot sooner rather than it did?

...yet you say you have had the third battery charger cord for 12-18 months....hmmmm

first, I think you should have gotten a replacement directly from apple for the second cord which failed after a few weeks.

second- your facts above don't add up....hmmmm

However, such a big fault that i've got (been reported by literally 100's) shouldn't be allowed to happen on such a grand scale, im really dissapointed.

third- what "problem" is apple ignoring that is documented on the web 100's of times as you note???

 

[Ninos]

No I'm not the expert. I'm just someone trying to help. I understand that you're distraught, but we're doing everything we can to help from this distance.

Yes, I know and I know I havb't gotten anywhere but I really do appreciate your help thus far

If this is your 3rd charger and you've been using it 12-18 months how old is the MacBook? Have you upgraded anything on it? Has it ever given you any problems in the past? When the power light on the MacBook is on can you hear the fans running? When the power light on the MacBook is on can you hear the hard drive working? If you type on the keyboard or click with the mouse do you get an error sound? If you leave the charger connected (even if the light doesn't come on) does the charge level on the battery increase?

I'm sorry I've forgotten the term, but I've completely reinstalled the entire system about twice (wiping out everything and doing a fresh install). However, it was such a long time ago I can't really rmemeber why. I know one time was just as a quick way to remove clutter, second time may or may not have been a problem (as I said cannot remember).

Like I posted in the update, the power light is no longer on. *NO SOUND WHATSOEVER* are being made.

It's a good question about the battery increase i'm gonna try it now.

Did you reset the SMC and NVRAM?

NVRAM
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1379?viewlocale=en_US

SMC
http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3964

It may not fix the issue, but it doesn't hurt to try it.

Tried and didn't work thanks anyway mate

I'm going out on a limb and say it's something electrical. If you got a knockoff charger it may have shorted something out internally.

Don't know if you already tried opening it or not. I'd be curious to know if you smelled anything burning inside as it may narrow things down.

Besides that, I agree that instead of PayPaling people here who are speculating, I would use that money and pay the support fee to Apple for their assistance. You'll at least get a definitive answer that way.

Like I said I didn't think it was the charger as I've been using the same "knockoff" brand for a while now, however I really can't think of what else it could be so you may be right.

Like I said, there is no apple store for a good 100+ miles, that's why I'm offering to pay a technician on this board.

Ok- so your MacBook is 1-2 years old....and you really don't know how old it is exactly.....hmmmm

When did I say it was 1-2 years old?? I know for a fact i didnt get it this christmas (end of 2009), the christmas before (end of 2008), so I'm *thinking* it was the one before (end of 2007). Not 100% though.

then you say you have had the third charger cord for a week...hmmm...

Yes, I bought the 3rd charger around a week ago off the internet. And now I've had the problem...what's wrong with that?

...yet you say you have had the third battery charger cord for 12-18 months....hmmmm

Nope, I said I had the EXACT SAME MODEL AND BRAND charger that was my friends (charger #2), and it was so good that I bought the exact same one from the same site.

second- your facts above don't add up....hmmmm

Read my counter points above. Boy I tell ya, you gotta READ my posts properly. Jeez: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glasses

third- what "problem" is apple ignoring that is documented on the web 100's of times as you note???

hmmmmmmmmm I don't know....could it be the POWER issues??? Have you not read a single word on my posts? The problem apple is ignoring is that there is a big case of the apples turning into bricks, which is what I got.

I wouldn't be so sarcastic and I'm grateful for all help given, but you're not helping and I don't like being talked to like a prick.


***UPDATE TO NOTE: I've been using the battery checker button thing that is clickable on the back-side of the battery. It is now completely drained?? So somethings happening with my mac?? I can assure that there are no sounds (both from the speakers and physically), lights or anything indicating activity ***

PS: TO ALL THE PEOPLE THAT ARE GENUINELY TRYNA HELP ME, IT'S GREATLY APPRECIATED

I can also confirm that not only does the light not appear on the charger, but it isn't charging my battery either :S thanks

edit: so perhaps its a faulty charger that not only manage to break, but managed to break my mac?

If it was the charger, what could it have short circuited? Whats the possible damage, and whats the possible costs?

thanks

 

[DewGuy1999]

I can also confirm that not only does the light not appear on the charger, but it isn't charging my battery either :S thanks

Based on that statement, I'd say the battery is depleted and the charger is non-functional. There's nothing else that anyone on the net can tell you that will do anything at this point with a dead battery and a non-functional charger. You need to find another charger, either buy or borrow (preferably Apple brand) and see if you can get any improvement in your situation. Good Luck!

 

[Ninos]

Based on that statement, I'd say the battery is depleted and the charger is non-functional. There's nothing else that anyone on the net can tell you that will do anything at this point with a dead battery and a non-functional charger. You need to find another charger, either buy or borrow (preferably Apple brand) and see if you can get any improvement in your situation. Good Luck!

No, this is not true. When my macbook first went dead the charger button on the battery displayed 4 out of 5 circles (therefore 80% charge).

I had also used it the night before, and my memory also backs this up as if the charge was low, I would have put it on charge overnight, but I remember seeing it almost full and therefore leaving it. However, if the charger is plugged into the mains I can confirm that its drawing power in a non-haradous way. The charger is also working on my friends macbook.

The issue is NOT that the charger isn't working, it is carrying out it purpose fine (ie. charging the battery), however it *MAY* be that the charger is faulty. I really don't think so though, both me and my friends have been using the same brand of charger for 12-18 months problem-free.

 

[-Ryan-]

I disagree that it's something to do with the charger. The charger does sound dodgy though, so I'd stop using it if you get this fixed. Anyway, it sounds most likely a logic board or RAM issue. RAM is cheap and easy to replace; logic board, not cheap or easy.

Go here: http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1651

You'll be looking at the "black or white' option at the bottom. Follow the instructions, and take one module out at a time, then swap over and test. If the computer turns on and works, you've got a broken RAM module. You can replace these for under £25 each depending on the size. If this does not work, I'm sorry to say, but it sounds like your logic board is fried. May as well replace the computer at this stage.

 

[DewGuy1999]

No, this is not true. When my macbook first went dead the charger button on the battery displayed 4 out of 5 circles (therefore 80% charge).

I had also used it the night before, and my memory also backs this up as if the charge was low, I would have put it on charge overnight, but I remember seeing it almost full and therefore leaving it. However, if the charger is plugged into the mains I can confirm that its drawing power in a non-haradous way. The charger is also working on my friends macbook.

The issue is NOT that the charger isn't working, it is carrying out it purpose fine (ie. charging the battery), however it *MAY* be that the charger is faulty. I really don't think so though, both me and my friends have been using the same brand of charger for 12-18 months problem-free.

The only thing that I can think of at this point is to take the battery out of your MacBook, put it in your friend's MacBook and charge it to full (if it will hold a charge) using your charger then put it back in your MacBook and see if you can get it to boot. This will prove if the battery and charger work.

 

[Ninos]

I disagree that it's something to do with the charger. The charger does sound dodgy though, so I'd stop using it if you get this fixed. Anyway, it sounds most likely a logic board or RAM issue. RAM is cheap and easy to replace; logic board, not cheap or easy.

Go here: http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1651

You'll be looking at the "black or white' option at the bottom. Follow the instructions, and take one module out at a time, then swap over and test. If the computer turns on and works, you've got a broken RAM module. You can replace these for under £25 each depending on the size. If this does not work, I'm sorry to say, but it sounds like your logic board is fried. May as well replace the computer at this stage.

That's an *extremely* usefull post. Its close to 1am here, I don't feel like going out in the cold to the cold garage to get tools haha, so I'll PM you (and post an update in the thread) with what happens tommorow. And £25/50 for a fix (that's if they are the problem) is bloody good going. Thanks for this mate, I just hope it's not the logic board as the cheapest mac was £700 (£650 with student discount - I'm no longer a student). ty again

The only thing that I can think of at this point is to take the battery out of your MacBook, put it in your friend's MacBook and charge it to full (if it will hold a charge) using your charger then put it back in your MacBook and see if you can get it to boot. This will prove if the battery and charger work.

-.- like i've said, the battery was at full charge!! it isn't a battery problem...
I do appreciate you spending your time helping me, but I hate to repeat myself 1000 times, the battery did have full charge. And the charger still works as I've tested it. Sorry for being a bit of a dick earlier/now but I havn't got £700 for a new mac, nor have I got the option to lose the files on my mac. I'd rather lose the mac and keep the files (although I know I can take the HD out and somehow back it up/transfer files), so as you can understand i'm very irritated.

Anyway thanks everyone for their help, a few people have suggested it's either a case of the Logic Board or the RAM, and Ryan's given me very useful help so I guess I'll try everything regarding them in the morning and I'll post an update.

 

[ouimetnick]

When did I say it was 1-2 years old?? I know for a fact i didnt get it this christmas (end of 2009), the christmas before (end of 2008), so I'm *thinking* it was the one before (end of 2007). Not 100% though.

OP, so you got it for Christmas (December 2008), but it was the model from 2007? If it was brand new, its going to be made in 2008 buddy. Its probably a late 2008 Mac.

 

[Ninos]

OP, so you got it for Christmas (December 2008), but it was the model from 2007? If it was brand new, its going to be made in 2008 buddy. Its probably a late 2008 Mac.

Sorry mate I wasn't clear enough, I read what I put and it doesn't make much sense lol. I recon I got it 'bout Christmas 2007. So probably either a mid or late 2007 Mac

 

[ouimetnick]

Sorry mate I wasn't clear enough, I read what I put and it doesn't make much sense lol. I recon I got it 'bout Christmas 2007. So probably either a mid or late 2007 Mac

I think you should take the battery out, and make sure no power is going into the Mac. Press and hold the power button, and then just leave the Mac alone for a while. Then reseat the RAM sticks, and plug the computer into the wall with an Apple branded power adapter, and charge it up and see if it works.

 

[Ninos]

Yes, it looks like I will have to reseat the RAM things tommorow. I've got an article already, but I'll probably look at youtube for a video tutorial as well since I'm never any good with instructions/manuals haha

 

[ouimetnick]

Yes, it looks like I will have to reseat the RAM things tommorow. I've got an article already, but I'll probably look at youtube for a video tutorial as well since I'm never any good with instructions/manuals haha

Keep us (me) updated on how it works out.

 

[Ninos]

@-Ryan-

My understanding of what I gotta do is:
- Unscrew the L Bracket
- Remove the two RAM's (by using the lever)
- Swap the RAM's around
- Then check if it works

Is that correct? Just so I know what to do when I've resolved the following problem:

Okay, you're not gonna beleive it. Yes I'm a noob and I've failed again. Bacally, I've taken the two RAMs out, I'm about to swap them around but I can't seem to get them to slot back in properly When I put them back in they seem like they're slightly loose/not in properly, and to confirm this if I tilt the laptop at an angle then they slide out (meaning they're not in properly).

In the article it says push them in firmly, however I attempted doing this to one of them and it didn't feel right and I could tell there was gonna be a snapping noise if I tried any harder.

I'm hella pissed now cause I've just removed a load of parts and now can't put them back properly, making it even worse haha

What's the correct method for getting them back in? Thanks

Also, it looks like I've made progress and have found the problem. Out of the two RAMs:
1 - The one that was originally in the left looks a bit worn, and out of the 4 black chips (I think they're chips) the last two look a bit messed up. They got a bit of white **** all over, could be dust, not sure.
2 - The one that originally was in the right slot looks perfectly healthly, clean and new etc. If someone showed it to me I'd think it's new.

Now I'm not expert and it could be dust on the left one, but I'll upload a picture in about an hour (as soon as my phone has charged) to show you.

 

[Ninos]

Here's a picture of the image, Top is the good Ram, Bottom is the one I'm worried about. Apologies for the worst picture quality ever, but it's the best I can do.

Alternatively, click here if you're having problems viewing the image.

 

[logana]

That looks like liquid damage - has anything been spilt on the keyboard recently ?

Could explain everything.

The ram chips do need to be pushed in firmly - if you do not get white marks on your fingertips then you have not pushed hard enough.....

I would suggest you put the good-looking ram back in and try again.

 

[Jeffrosproto]

Do you have the notch in the ram (in the gold contact area) lined up with the one in the ram slot on your macbook? If so, you should be able to push them in until they snap into place (it may take quite a bit of force). If you can't see the slot itself, get a flashlight.

Also, I'm pretty sure it will boot with one stick of ram (in what slot, i'm not quite sure). I wouldn't put the stick on the bottom back in, it looks like something is on it (almost like corrosion).

 

[Ninos]

That looks like liquid damage - has anything been spilt on the keyboard recently ?

Could explain everything.

The ram chips do need to be pushed in firmly - if you do not get white marks on your fingertips then you have not pushed hard enough.....

I would suggest you put the good-looking ram back in and try again.

Not to my knowledge at all. I don't *think* anything was spilt on it, then again it could have been a fmaily member that had accidentally spilt something on it earlier in the day.

Okay, I was a bit worried to push in the chips too hard incase they broke, I've pushed them in firm enough.

What slot does the ram need to go in if I only put 1 in, left or right? I'll try left I guess

Do you have the notch in the ram (in the gold contact area) lined up with the one in the ram slot on your macbook? If so, you should be able to push them in until they snap into place (it may take quite a bit of force). If you can't see the slot itself, get a flashlight.

Also, I'm pretty sure it will boot with one stick of ram (in what slot, i'm not quite sure). I wouldn't put the stick on the bottom back in, it looks like something is on it (almost like corrosion).

Okay, I'll just put one in then. And like I said, yeah I pushed a bit firmer I was being a bit of a ***** didn't wanna break anything lol. Thanks for your help, I'll update with what happens in a short while

 

[Ninos]

Sorry to double post, but just thought I'd post an update.

The dodgey ram was removed, and I put the good one in the LEFT ram slot. Still nothing, still the same problem. I don't get it :'(

Perhaps the dodgey ram was found in the left slot, so maybe theres damage not only to the ram but also to the slot itself?

I'll switch it over to the right and see what happens. I'll edit this post with an update, thanks

 

[SPX]

FWIW, based on everything that you have shared in this thread, my bet is on the logic board.

 

[flyfish29]

Thanks to the mods for taking out the insult from the OP. It is not appreciated in this wonderful forum.

Ninos- if you look at YOUR post #21 in THIS thread you will see four questions/points I made earlier in the thread that YOU commented positively on. So until you got your feathers all ruffled up you thought I was contributing to the thread.

Also, when you make typos and your facts don't add up forum members are going to question you to get the facts straight and make comments that show we are confused! (and I am NOT the only one that has done this.)

I wish you all the luck solving your problem and only have one MORE thing to contribute to this thread- I agree with others that something is up with that second ram stick- Has it been really humid where you are? Humidity and computers don't mix well and that looks like moisture residue either from a spill or humidity. (And perhaps the pic is blurry due to being too close with your camera- step back and zoom in maybe to get a clear pic.

And I agree with others it is either a logic board or power issue....possibly from moisture.