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Mac mini (Late 2009) Symptom Charts — Mechanical 85
2010-08-03
System Runs Hot
Quick Check
Symptoms Quick Check
System Runs Hot
• System feels very hot
• Fan not operating
• Fan running fast
• System is noisy
1. Verify that the vents on the bottom are free of
dust and other obstructions that might inhibit
proper airow through the system.
2. Verify that the computer is not exposed to
direct sunlight which may heat up the enclosure
making it feel hot to the touch.
3. Verify the computer is not running hotter than
expected for normal operation.
4. Launch Applications/Utilities/Activity Monitor.
Determine whether an application or process is
consuming a high percentage of CPU bandwidth.
CPU intensive applications can cause the fans
to run fast in order to maintain the proper
internal system temperatures. If needed, quit the
application or restart the system to resolve the
issue.
5. Reset SMC by unplugging power cord for ~15
seconds.
Deep Dive
Check Result Action Code
1. Run latest available service
utilities for thermal sensor or
fan functional state. Was an
error generated?
Yes Suspect possible fan or
sensor error. Check fan
cable connection to the
interconnect board.
No Go to step 2.
2. Does noise sound like fan is
running faster than expected?
Yes Fan running fast. Reset SMC
by disconnecting power cord
for ~15 seconds then retest. If
issue continues go to step 3.
No Go to step 3.
3. Remove bottom cover,
disconnect AirPort antenna
and remove shield, disconnect
and remove fan and rotate
its blades. Verify that fan
blades spin smoothly without
interference from fan housing.
Yes Fan reseated, blades rotate.
No Replace aected fan. Go to
step 4.
X22