How do I reset the PRAM or NVRAM?

Your Mac stores certain settings like your screen resolution and startup disk location in special memory called PRAM on PowerPC Macs and NVRAM on Intel Macs. If you’re experiencing difficulty starting up your Mac, resetting the PRAM/NVRAM may help.

  • Shut down the Mac.
  • Locate these keys on the keyboard: Command, Option, P, and R.
  • Press the power button on your Mac.
  • Before the gray screen appears, hold down Command-Option-P-R simultaneously.
  • Keep holding those keys down until you hear the startup sound chime two or three times.

 FAQPRAM4.jpg



Published November 25, 2011 10:54 AM
Last modified on November 25, 2011 11:03 AM


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