1. technology and computing
2. hardware
3. computer
4. portable computer
5. laptop

Service Training
MacBook Air
Introduction
Getting Started
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
Welcome to the MacBook Air course.
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Reviewing this course will enable you to efficiently troubleshoot and service
MacBook Air computers.
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air computers present special challenges for service technicians.
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
In addition, we will offer guidance on best troubleshooting and repair practices.
We will review how you can best address these challenges.
Overview
Service Issues
Review
Target Audience
This course is intended for technicians who support and service Apple products.
Exercise Answer Key
Service Training
Contact Us
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Prerequisite Courses
Basic Computer Theory and Terms
Underlying Technologies
References
Diagnostics
Troubleshooting Theory
ESD Precautions
Hardware Tools
Technician Safety
Hardware Service Issues
Liquid Crystal Displays
Wireless Networking
Time Required
45 minutes
Course Objectives
Applicable to all models covered in this course:
Given an isolated hardware device issue and a possible resolution, use Apple documentation, approved tools, and service inventory to safely repair the
hardware device in 45 minutes.
Using Apple technical documentation as a reference, remove and then replace a specified component of a given supported product in the time allocated
for that repair procedure.
Given a hardware service repair and the correct Apple technical documentation for a specified supported product, identify the service and safety issues
for that product in 2 minutes.
Given a hardware service repair and the correct Apple technical documentation for a specified supported product, identify specialized tools/fixtures or
procedures required to service that product in 2 minutes.
Use hardware service diagnostics to thoroughly verify that a given hardware service repair was completed correctly in 5 minutes.
Reseat identified connectors to resolve a hardware issue on a given device before replacing any service parts on that device in 10 minutes.
Return to top
Next: MacBook Air Overview
Service Training
Introduction
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
MacBook Air
MacBook Air Overview
MacBook Air Models
Documentation
Ports
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air Models
The MacBook Air series was introduced in January of 2008. It provided a very light but powerful portable to the Apple model line.
The MacBook Air series consists of the following models:
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
Overview
Service Issues
Review
MacBook Air
MacBook Air (Late 2008)
MacBook Air (Mid 2009)
MacBook Air (MacBook Air (11-inch, Late 2010)
MacBook Air (13-inch, Late 2010)
Exercise Answer Key
Service Training
Documentation
There are three technician guides for the MacBook Air computers.
Contact Us
Manual/Tech Guide
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MacBook Air
MacBook Air (11-inch Late 2010)
MacBook Air (13-inch, Late 2010)
Models Covered
MacBook Air
MacBook Air (Late 2008)
MacBook Air (Mid 2009)
MacBook Air (11-inch Late 2010)
MacBook Air (13-inch, Late 2010)
Ports
MacBook Air computers have unique collections of I/O ports. These Apple Support articles explain how they differ from other Mac products:
HT2728 - "MacBook Air (Original), MacBook Air (Late 2008), MacBook Air (Mid 2009): External ports"
HT4425 - "MacBook Air (11-inch, Late 2010), MacBook Air (13-inch, Late 2010): External ports and connectors"
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Next: Course Exercise
Service Training
MacBook Air
Introduction
Course Exercise
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
Open this page separately and keep it open while you review the course.
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
Overview
Service Issues
Review
Exercise Answer Key
Service Training
Contact Us
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As you go through the course, answer each of the following exercise questions.
1. Sandra says her MacBook Air (Late 2010) box is missing a USB Ethernet Adapter. What should you tell her?
A. No adapter is necessary for this computer
B. No adapter is included in the box
2. How does the MacBook Air (Late 2010) trackpad behavior differ from that of the MacBook Air (Original) trackpad?
A. It has no differences
B. It supports fewer gestures
C. It supports more gestures
D. It adds some gestures and removes others
3. The MacBook Air (Late 2010) is not compatible with the Apple Remote because:
A. MacBook Air (Late 2010) is not equipped with an infrared (IR) port
B. MacBook Air (Late 2010) is not equipped with Bluetooth
C. Apple Remote devices only work with Mac OS X 10.4
D. MacBook Air is not compatible with Front Row
4. The MacBook Air (Late 2010) does not include a built-in optical drive. Instead of Mac OS X and bundled software installation CDs or DVDs, it
ships with:
A. Firewire hard drive labeled "Mac OS X Reinstall"
B. Firewire hard drive labeled "Software Reinstall Drive"
C. USB flash drive labeled "Mac OS X Reinstall"
D. USB flash drive labeled "Software Reinstall Drive"
5. To help discover liquid damage to the computer, MacBook Air (Late 2010) includes several spill sensors called:
A. Liquid Damage Indicators (LDI)
B. Liquid Interference Indicators (LII)
C. Liquid Detection Indicator (LDI)
D. Liquid Contact Indicators (LCI)
E. Liquid Spill Indicator (LSI)
6. Which System Preferences pane contains the four-finger gesture settings for the MacBook Air (Late 2008-Late 2010)?
A. Keyboard & Mouse
B. Trackpad
C. Gesture
D. Touch
7. The _____ screwdriver is used to remove the bottom case screws from the MacBook Air (Late 2010).
A. Torx-8
B. Torx-6
C. Security Torx
D. Pentalobe
E. Hexagon
8. Internal components are interchangeable between the original MacBook Air and MacBook Air (Late 2008).
A. True
B. False
9. Tessa has a MacBook Air (Mid 2009) with a 128 GB Solid State Drive. She asks why the capacity is about 113 GB. What should you tell Tessa?
A. Your hard disk may have directory damage.
B. This is a known issue. The drive will need to be replaced.
C. This is a symptom of accidental damage and is not covered under warranty.
D. This is normal because SSD drives have a lower formatted capacity than traditional drives.
10. The System Management Controller (SMC) controls power functions on the MacBook Air (Late 2010). Reset the SMC by shutting down the
computer, connecting the power adapter and on the left side of the built-in keyboard:
A. Hold down Shift-Control-Option, then press power key once
B. Hold down Shift-Control-S, then press power key once
C. Hold down Shift-Control-Command for 10 seconds
D. Hold down Shift-Control-Escape for 10 seconds
Apple Support Page Exercise
Access the current MacBook Air Support page and answer the following questions:
1. How do you perform a remote install of Mac OS X onto a MacBook Air?
2. Can you share DVD or CD content between a MacBook Air and another Mac?
Back to top
Next: MacBook Air (2008-2009) Overview
Service Training
MacBook Air
Introduction
MacBook Air (2008-2009) Overview
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
Comparison Table: MacBook Air (2008-2009)
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Comparison Table: MacBook Air (2008-2009)
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
Overview
Service Issues
Configurations
Marketing
Number
MacBook Air
(Late 2008)
MacBook Air (Original)
MacBook Air
(Mid 2009)
Best
Better
Best
Better
Best
MB003xx/A
MB543xx/A
MB940xx/A
MC233xx/A
MC234xx/A
1.86 GHz
2.13 GHz
Processor Type
(CPU)
Intel Core 2 Duo
1.6 GHz (optional
1.86 GHz available
CTO)
Processor
Speed
1.6 GHz (optional 1.8
GHz available CTO)
Service Training
Front Bus
Speed
800 MHz
1066 MHz
Contact Us
On-Chip L2
Cache
Two cores share 4 MB.
Two cores share 6 MB.
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System Memory
2 GB DDR2 soldered on
MLB (not upgradeable)
2 GB soldered on MLB (not upgradeable)
PC3 8500 DDR3 1066 MHz
Review
Exercise Answer Key
Maximum
Memory
1.86 GHz
2 GB
Graphics
Controller
Integrated Intel GMA
X3100
(GM965 Express
chipset)
Integrated NVIDIA GeForce 9400M (MCP79)
Graphics
Memory
144 MB system memory
(up to 160 MB as
needed)
Minimum 256 MB shared with system memory
Display Size
13.3 inches
Native
Resolution
1280 x 800
Display Type
Hard Drive
LED Backlight
80 GB PATA 4200 rpm
(optional 64 GB PATA
Solid-state Drive
available CTO)
Optical Drive
Ethernet
120GB
Serial ATA
4200 rpm
128GB
Solid-state
Drive
Optional external USB SuperDrive available CTO
Apple USB Ethernet Adapter (included)
Built-in AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi (802.11n); built-in Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
Built-in iSight camera;
micro-DVI output port
with support for DVI,
VGA, S-video, and
composite video (DVI
and VGA adapters
included, others sold
separately)
USB Ports
Built-in iSight camera; Mini DisplayPort output port with support for DVI, VGA, and
dual-link DVI (adapters sold separately)
One USB 2.0 port
FireWire Ports
None
Audio (In)
Built-in omnidirectional microphone, no input/audio line in
Audio (Out)
Trackpad
128GB
Solid-state
Drive
None (optional Apple USB Ethernet Adapter CTO)
Wireless
Video
120GB
Serial ATA
4200 rpm
Built-in monospeaker; audio output /headphone out
Multi-Touch (two-finger
gestures)
Size
Multi-Touch (four-finger gestures)
Height: 0.16 - 0.76 in. (0.4 - 1.94 cm)
Width: x 12.8 in. (32.5 cm)
Depth: x 8.94 in. (22.7 cm)
Weight
3.0 lbs.
(1.36 kg)
Color (Finish)
Aluminum
Back to top
Next: Troubleshooting Issues
Service Training
Introduction
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air
Troubleshooting Issues: MacBook Air (2008-2009)
Troubleshooting Overview
Restoration Sidesteps Installation Lockout
Migration Issues
MacBook Air 45W MagSafe power adapter compatibility
MacBook Air (Late 2008) SuperDrive Usage Tips
Firmware Password Tips
About the battery diagnostic
Headphone jack interference
Processor throttling
Hard Disc Drive and Solid State Drive Capacities
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
Overview
Service Issues
Review
Exercise Answer Key
Troubleshooting Overview
The following are service issues that are documented in more depth in the MacBook Air and MacBook Air (Late 2008) service manual and on Apple's
MacBook Air (Late 2008) product support page.
Please note that the issues for the MacBook Air (Mid 2009) model are the same.
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Restoration Sidesteps Installation Lockout
Summary: Installation lockout doesn't prevent restoring hard disk images.
Symptom: Schools and business customers might install Mac OS X on a supported computer and then restore that image on unsupported computers.
Because the installation lockout occurs only during installation, customers may still install incompatible operating systems to hard drives.
Solution: Probe to verify whether the customer installed the OS from a disk image or an optical disc. Refer these customers to their departments
responsible for installing software. Educate customers who are responsible for their own installations about which OS versions work with certain
computers.
Migration Issues
Summary: Migration fails or computers do not appear during migration.
Symptom: When migrating data over a network, you may not see remote computers, or migration may not complete.
Solution: In addition to normal network troubleshooting, make sure that the computers from which you're migrating have at least Mac OS X 10.4.11 or
Mac OS X 10.5.5 AND that you have installed the "Migration and CD/DVD Sharing update" or "DVD or CD Sharing Setup" installed.
These articles provide more details on migration.
HT2288 - "MacBook Air: How to use Migration Assistant"
HT1896 - "MacBook Air: Migration tips and tricks"
MacBook Air 45W MagSafe power adapter compatibility
Summary: The MacBook Air 45W MagSafe Power Adapter is specially designed to work with MacBook Air (Original) and MacBook Air (Late 2008).
It has a low-profile, right-angled MagSafe connector to fit in the slim area under the bottom case while the unit is resting on a hard, flat surface. Although
a 60W or 85W MagSafe adapter from a MacBook or MacBook Pro can provide adequate power to operate and charge the MacBook Air (Original) and
MacBook Air (Late 2008), these adapters are not recommended because the connector does not share the same design to stay seated properly in the
MacBook Air (Original) and MacBook Air (Late 2008) MagSafe port. The images below compare these two connectors' shapes.
MacBook Air 45W MagSafe
Connector
MacBook 60W and MacBook Pro
85W MagSafe Connector
Likewise, don’t use the MacBook Air 45W MagSafe Power Adapter to operate or charge existing MacBook and MacBook Pro computers that require the
60W or 85W MagSafe Power Adapter. Although the MacBook Air 45W MagSafe Power Adapter provides adequate power to operate and charge
MacBook Air, it does not provide adequate power to operate or charge existing MacBook and MacBook Pro computers that require the 60W or 85W
MagSafe Power Adapter.
Symptom: MacBook Air (Original) or MacBook Air (Late 2008) users who try to use a 60W or 85W MagSafe power adapter may complain that the
connector doesn't fit properly underneath the MacBook Air (Original) or MacBook Air (Late 2008) when sitting on a flat surface. Or MacBook or
MacBook Pro users who use a MacBook Air 45W MagSafe power adapter may complain that this adapter doesn't work at all with these computers.
Solution: Apple portable users should always use the proper power adapter intended for use with each product.
These articles provide useful information on power adapters.
HT2346 - "Intel-Based Apple Portables: Identifying the right power adapter and power cord--US"
TS1713 - "Apple Portables: Troubleshooting MagSafe adapters"
MacBook Air (Late 2008) SuperDrive Usage Tips
Summary: The MacBook Air (Late 2008) external SuperDrive must be connected directly to the USB port on MacBook Air (Late 2008). This accessory
will not function through a USB hub. Also, this drive must be used in an upright position (aluminum surface facing upwards) only, and may not function
properly if placed on its side or upside down.
Symptom: Customers may complain that they cannot use MacBook Air SuperDrive through a USB hub, or they may complain that the drive does not
work properly (or at all) while it is placed on its side or upside down.
Solution: Be sure to connect MacBook Air external SuperDrive directly to the USB port on MacBook Air (Original) or MacBook Air (Late 2008) and be
sure to always operate this drive in an upright position.
Review this article for more details:
TS2042 - "Troubleshooting the MacBook Air SuperDrive"
Firmware Password Tips
Summary: When the original MacBook Air was introduced in January 2008, there was no practical way (other than replacing the logic board) to the
remove firmware password if the firmware password was forgotten. This is because MacBook Air RAM memory is not removable from the logic board,
and removing or adding memory is a key step in the procedure to clear the firmware password.
Symptom: Customers may set a firmware password on their MacBook Air (Original) or MacBook Air (Late 2008) and then forget this password. This
may prevent anyone from performing any service- and support-related tasks such as booting to an external USB hard drive or optical drive, verbose boot,
single-user mode boot, etc. while the firmware password is in place.
Solution: For MacBook Air (Late 2008), a procedure has been developed to allow service technicians to reset the password. More information can be
found in the Apple support article TS2391 "MacBook Air (Late 2008): Recovering a lost EFI firmware password". The following are the detailed steps
for AASP technicians:
IMPORTANT: Do not perform Main Logic Board (MLB) replacement for this issue on MacBook Air (Late 2008).
Service procedure for resetting the EFI firmware password on MacBook Air (Late 2008)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Shut down the MacBook Air and remove the MagSafe adapter, if connected.
Carefully unscrew and remove the bottom case.
Unplug the main battery.
Replace the bottom case temporarily to provide a solid base for the MacBook Air. Note: It is not necessary to screw all of the screws back in yet.
Attach a MacBook Air SuperDrive for use as the startup disk and use the DVD media that came with the MacBook Air.
Attach the MagSafe adapter to the MacBook Air.
Start the MacBook Air, while holding down the Option key to access the Boot Picker.
Press and hold the power button to shutdown the MacBook Air.
Start the MacBook Air, while holding down the Option key to access the Boot Picker.
Boot Picker will now allow a different startup volume to be chosen without the EFI firmware password. Choose the MacBook Air (Late 2008) DVD
and continue booting.
Reset the EFI password using the password reset application, located on the Utilities menu.
Shut down the computer then remove the MagSafe power adapter.
Re-assemble the computer with the battery cable re-inserted. Ensure that the bottom case and screws are re-assembled correctly.
Start the MacBook Air and set the current date and time using the Date & Time System Preference pane.
Note: The loss of connected battery power which occurs in step 3 may cause the current date and time settings to be lost.
About the battery diagnostic
Summary: Service technicians can use the MacBook Air (Late 2008)'s sleep indicator light (SIL) for troubleshooting certain issues. In addition to its
other functions, the sleep indicator light provides diagnostic information including battery health. The sleep indicator is located along the front edge on
the right side, just left of the IR window.
Symptom: MacBook Air (Late 2008)'s sleep indicator light flashes 5 times at power on and the pattern repeats after a brief pause.
Important: It is important to note that the "Safe Sleep" function may be unable to recover unsaved data if the MacBook Air (Late 2008)'s power is
interrupted while in this state.
Solution: If the MacBook Air (Late 2008)'s sleep indicator light flashes 5 times at power on and the pattern repeats after a brief pause, the computer's
battery may require service. If the power adaptor is present and connected to a working power source, the MacBook Air (Late 2008) will continue to start
up normally; however, the battery should be serviced by Apple (or an AASP) at your earliest convenience. This 5-flash pattern may also occur when
waking the computer from sleep if the power adaptor is connected and the battery requires service. This is intended to let you know that the MacBook Air
(Late 2008)'s battery requires service but will still accommodate continued operation until it can be serviced by Apple or an AASP.
Along with this new diagnostic indicator for the battery, users may also see a new on-screen indicator. There is a new menu bar battery icon that may
appear on MacBook Air (Late 2008): a battery with a triangle and exclamation point inside it, as shown below.
This means the battery is not performing to specifications, and may have a fault condition such as low capacity. It will remind the user to have the battery
replaced as soon as convenient.
You can find more information on the battery diagnostic here.
HT2130 - "MacBook Air: About the battery diagnostic"
Headphone jack interference
Summary: Some third-party audio products, such as headphones, may not plug into the MacBook Air (Late 2008) headphone jack because part of the
connector does not fit within the port hatch.
Symptom: In some instances, the audio plug may appear to fit, but the audio quality is intermittent or poor when used with MacBook Air (Late 2008).
Solution: Use a third-party headphone adapter to extend the audio connection outside of the port hatch. This enables a complete connector seating and
electrical connection. Adapters are available at the Apple Store.
Review this article for more details.
TS1955 - "MacBook Air: Headphone jack and third-party audio product compatibility"
Processor throttling
Summary: As MacBook Air (Late 2008) gets warm, the CPU automatically slows down to compensate for excess heat generated, which may have a
significant impact on gaming and other graphics performance, since graphics are integrated.
Symptom: MacBook Air (Late 2008) users may notice this impact on performance when running high-end graphics applications or games, and mistake it
for a service issue.
Solution: This is not a service issue; it is expected behavior and is part of the thermal management system in MacBook Air (Late 2008). MacBook Air
(Late 2008) was not designed as a graphics workstation or high-end gaming computer.
Hard Disc Drive and Solid State Drive Capacities
Symptoms: Some MacBook Air computers may show hard disk drive (HDD) and Solid State Drive (SSD) capacity below expected levels. When using
the MacBook Air for the first time, customers may see a disk full error message or an HDD/SSD capacity that is lower than normal.
Resolution
To correct the issue follow the steps below.
Warning: Be sure to create an external backup of any data on your hard drive prior to following these instructions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Start up using the MacBook Air Install Discs.
Go to Disk Utility and erase the HDD/SSD, in Mac OS Extended (Journaled) format.
Once the drive is erased, use the MacBook Air Install Discs to reinstall the Macbook Air software.
This solution resolves the issue permanently so there is no need for repair.
For more information, consult these articles.
TS2056 - "MacBook Air: How to correct an HDD or SSD that shows lower than expected capacity"
TS2419 - "How Mac OS X reports drive capacity"
Back to top
Next: Repair Issues
Service Training
Introduction
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
Overview
Service Issues
Review
Exercise Answer Key
Service Training
MacBook Air
Repair Issues: MacBook Air (2008-2009)
Repair Issues Overview
No DIY parts
Parts Compatibility
CAUTION! Disconnect Internal Main Battery Before Working Inside!
Use extreme care when working inside
Repair Issues Overview
Here are some cautions to consider before working inside MacBook Air (2008-2009) computers. As a reminder, for more information and additional tips
and procedures, please consult technician guides.
No DIY parts
Summary: As a reminder, there are NO DIY parts in this product. RAM, HD, and main battery are all internal and not user-replaceable nor upgradeable.
Tips:
Technicians must handle the battery with care when replacing it as its enclosure is not designed to withstand being dropped or exposed to air.
Contact Us
If Apple Hardware Test or Apple Service Diagnostic memory tests fail, the only solution is to replace the logic board. This is because RAM is not
separately replaceable since it's soldered to the logic board.
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The hard drive is very small (1.8") and has a very fragile cable connected to it.
Parts Compatibility
Summary: Some internal components are not interchangeable between the original MacBook Air and MacBook Air (Late 2008). It is important to be
aware of this when servicing either model.
Tips: The following parts are not interchangeable with MacBook Air (original):
The hard/solid state drive and its flex cable cannot be interchanged because PATA and SATA have different number of signal lines.
The I/O hatch changed from micro-DVI to Mini DisplayPort.
The main logic board and its heat sink are arranged differently with connectors in different locations. So, for example, the mass storage device from one
model cannot be connected to the logic board of the other model.
Although, both MacBook Air audio boards seem to be interchangeable, the signaling from the OS driver is different. The result of mixing the audio
boards across models is there is no audio out, even though in System Profiler you can see the board information.
CAUTION! Disconnect Internal Main Battery Before Working Inside!
Summary: Technicians must remember to first disconnect the internal main battery before doing any work inside MacBook Air (Late 2008). Because
this battery is internal and connected to the logic board via cable, the battery must be disconnected by its connector before performing any service
procedure whatsoever. Failure to do so is likely to result in irreparable damage to expensive components such as the logic board and/or LVDS cable.
Tip: Always disconnect the battery as the very next step after bottom case removal.
Use extreme care when working inside
Summary: Patience, finesse, and a soft touch are crucial when servicing MacBook Air (Late 2008). Extreme care must be taken when working inside
this unit, due to extremely small parts and very fragile components and cables. With the product’s thin enclosure height, the placement of parts and
wiring is more critical than ever before.
Tips:
It’s always a good idea to keep your work area very clean, and it’s especially true with this product, to avoid scratches and other cosmetic damage.
You will need #000 Philips screwdriver to work inside this unit. That’s a size smaller than what is used in current products.
The bottom case screws are inserted at an angle. When reinstalling these screws make sure you have inserted them at that appropriate angle. Before
turning the screw into the boss, make sure the threads are properly aligned. Use the screwdriver to seat the screw at the correct angle, and then turn the
screw backward (counterclockwise) until you feel the the threads ‘click’ into place. Otherwise, you can damage the screw boss which is part of the top
case.
During assembly and disassembly, note cable routing & reassemble in the same manner (hint: take photos with a digital camera to note cable and
component positions). Verify that cables do not route over components when they should route into lower positions or channels. Verify that cables are
not strained or applying pressure onto other components. Some internal cables are extremely fragile and could break easily, especially the microphone
cable next to the hard drive frame, the LVDS cable, and the hard drive cable. Because of new, environmentally friendly Halogen-free materials, cables
may tend to be stiffer and less pliable and thus require careful handling to avoid damage.
MacBook Air (Late 2008) display clamshell removal / replacement requires the use of a servicing fixture (which is available as a tool in GSX) to
properly align the display clamshell's clutches and hinges with the top case. This new fixture is wedge-shaped and can accommodate different-sized
notebook displays, although you can still use the existing foam display service fixture that was available for the original MacBook Air if you have one.
Existing Foam Service Fixture for MacBook Air
(Original) Display Assembly
922-8538
New Foam Service Fixture for MacBook Air Display
Assembly
922-8779
Return to top
Next: MacBook Air (Late 2010) Overview
Service Training
MacBook Air
Introduction
MacBook Air (Late 2010) Overview
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
Comparison Table: MacBook Air (2010)
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Comparison Table: MacBook Air (Late 2010)
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
Overview
Service Issues
Review
Exercise Answer Key
Service Training
Contact Us
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MacBook Air
(11-inch, Late 2010)
Configurations
Marketing
Number
MacBook Air
(13-inch, Late 2010)
Better
Best
Better
Best
MC505LL/A
MC506LL/A
MC503LL/A
MC504LL/A
Processor Type
(CPU)
Intel Core 2 Duo
Processor
Speed
1.4 GHz
1.86 GHz
Front Bus
Speed
800MHz
1066MHz
3MB Shared
6MB Shared
On-Chip L2
Cache
System Memory
2GB of 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM onboard
Maximum
Memory
4 GB
Graphics
Controller
NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics processor
Graphics
Memory
256MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory
Display Size
11.6 inches
13.3 inches
Native
Resolution
1366 x 768
1440 x 900
Display Type
Storage
Optical Drive
Ethernet
Wireless
Video
USB Ports
LED Backlight
128GB
Flash storage
64GB
Flash storage
Trackpad
Size
Weight
Color (Finish)
256GB
Flash storage
Optional external USB MacBook Air SuperDrive (sold separately)
Apple USB Ethernet Adapter (sold separately)
Built-in AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi (802.11n); built-in Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
FaceTime camera; Mini DisplayPort output port with support for DVI, VGA, dual-link DVI, and HDMI (requires
adapters, sold separately)
Two USB 2.0 ports (up to 480 Mbps)
SD card slot
Two USB 2.0 ports (up to 480 Mbps)
FireWire Ports
Audio
128GB
Flash storage
None
Stereo speakers, omnidirectional microphone, headphone minijack
Multi-Touch trackpad for precise cursor control; supports inertial scrolling, pinch, rotate, swipe, three-finger
swipe, four-finger swipe, tap, double-tap, and drag capabilities
Height: 0.11-0.68 inch (0.3-1.7 cm)
Width: 11.8 inches (29.95 cm)
Depth: 7.56 inches (19.2 cm))
Height: 0.11-0.68 inch (0.3-1.7 cm)
Width: 12.8 inches (32.5 cm)
Depth: 8.94 inches (22.7 cm)
2.3 pounds
(1.06 kg)
2.9 pounds
(1.32 kg)
Aluminum
Back to top
Next: Service Issues
Service Training
Introduction
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
MacBook Air
Service Issues: MacBook Air (2010) Models
Service Issues Overview
Resetting the System Management Controller
Front Row
Standby Mode
Sleep Status Tips
Software Reinstall Drive
Liquid Contact Indicators
Logic Board Handling
Bottom Case
Pentalobe Screwdriver
Use Extreme Case When Working Inside
Display and Camera Connection
Overview
Service Issues
Review
Service Issues Overview
Here are some cautions to consider before working inside MacBook Air (11 and 13-inch, Late 2010).
Exercise Answer Key
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Resetting the System Management Controller
The System Management Controller (SMC) controls power functions on the MacBook Air (Late 2010). This includes charging, fans, and other powered
features such as items on the USB bus, including the built-in iSight and external USB ports.
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To reset the System Management Controller (SMC) on the MacBook Air (Late 2010), do the following:
Service Training
1. If the computer is on, choose Shut Down from the Apple menu to turn it off.
2. Connect the power adapter to the computer and a working power source.
3. On the left side of the computer's built-in keyboard, press Shift-Control-Option and the power button once.
Note: It is very important to use the Shift-Control-Option keys on LEFT side of the keyboard.
4. When the LED on the MagSafe connector is orange/amber, and you reset the SMC, the LED changes to green for a few seconds, indicating you
correctly reset the SMC.
5. Wait five seconds and press the power button to start the computer.
Front Row
The MacBook Air (Late 2010) does not include an infrared (IR) port, and is not compatible with IR-based Apple Remote devices. To enter and exit Front
Row, press Command-Esc (Escape) on the keyboard and navigate the menus using the arrow keys, and the Return and Esc keys. You can also use the
Remote app on iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch.
If a customer reports that the the MacBook Air (Late 2010) becomes unresponsive when he or she uses Front Row, ask the customer to press CommandOption-Esc to force Front Row to quit. If this does not resolve the issue, ask the customer to hold down the power button on the keyboard to force the
computer to shut down.
Standby Mode
MacBook Air (Late 2010) introduces a sleep state called Standby mode. This state replaces the "safe sleep" state previous portable computers used. If the
computer is in a normal CPU sleep state for over one hour, the RAM contents copy to the computer's solid-state drive, and the computer enters an even
lower power state. This happens even if the battery has enough charge to normally power the computer.
Compared to safe sleep, Standby mode has the following advantages:
The computer can remain in this state for up to 30 days without losing its RAM contents.
Exiting Standby mode takes approximately three seconds; exiting safe sleep takes longer.
Because exiting Standby mode happens quickly, a progress bar is unnecessary.
Standby mode happens after an hour of normal CPU sleep, even if the battery has a substantial charge, which conserves more battery power when you're
not using the computer.
Preventing Standby mode
Apple designed this sleep state for portable computers that are unplugged or in transit. In the following situations, the computer enters normal CPU sleep,
but does not transition to Standby mode:
The computer's lid is open.
The computer is connected to AC power using a MagSafe adapter.
The computer has USB devices connected.
The computer has external displays connected.
The computer has a built-in SD card slot, and an SD card is in the slot.
Exiting Standby mode
To make the computer exit Standby mode, ensure it has power (such as from a charged battery or a MagSafe AC connection). Then, do one of the
following:
Press the power button.
Press a key on the keyboard.
Press (do not tap) the built-in trackpad.
Open the computer's lid.
Because the computer's Bluetooth circuitry is off during Standby mode, pressing a button or key on a paired Bluetooth mouse or keyboard does not wake
the computer from Standby mode. Press a built-in button or key on the computer instead.
More information can be found in the Apple Support article: HT4392 - "MacBook Air (Late 2010): About standby mode"
Sleep Status Tips
This computer does not have a sleep indicator light. To troubleshoot without one, follow these tips:
Connect a USB device that has a power-on or activity indicator light. As power is restored to the USB bus and the computer wakes from sleep, the
indicator light turns on.
Press the Caps Lock key cap multiple times to wake the computer from sleep.
Open the display and press an alphanumeric key to wake the computer from sleep.
A computer that has been asleep for an extended period can consume the remaining charge of the battery. Restore power to the computer with a knowngood power adapter, and check that the MagSafe indicator light shows an in-progress battery charge. The computer boots from a hibernation file and
starts from where it left off.
Resetting the SMC instantly shuts down some computer side effects:
- If the computer is in sleep mode, it will reboot from a hibernation file.
- If the computer is booted to Mac OS during SMC reset, data from open applications can be lost.
- If the computer is already shut down, there will be no side effects.
Look for the MagSafe indicator light to momentarily transition from off to green as the SMC is reset and reestablishes communication with the power
adapter, then change from green to orange if battery needs a charge.
Software Reinstall Drive
The MacBook Air (Late 2010) does not include a built-in optical drive. To make it easier to reinstall Mac OS X and other bundled software, the
MacBook Air (Late 2010) includes a USB flash drive labeled "Software Reinstall Drive." This drive is included instead of installation CDs or DVDs.
When you insert the flash drive, ensure it aligns with the bottom of the port and the Apple logo is facing up. Do not insert the drive into the SD card slot.
The flash drive comes in the product box, and includes all bundled software. To reinstall software that comes with the MacBook Air (Late 2010), insert
the Software Reinstall Drive into one of the computer's USB ports and double-click the installer icon you want to use.
You can also hold down the "C" key at startup to tell the MacBook Air (Late 2010) to start up from the Software Reinstall Drive. Alternatively, hold
down the Option key at startup to select any connected startup volume, including the reinstallation flash drive.
The Software Reinstall Drive also includes Apple Hardware Test (AHT) for this Mac model. To use AHT, connect the drive to the computer and hold
down the "D" key at startup, just as you do with a CD- or DVD-based installation disc on other Mac computers.
Customers might contact Apple, believing that the installation CD or DVD for this computer is missing. Explain the software-installation process, and
have the customer look in the product box for the Software Reinstall Drive. The drive is very small—approximately 1.5 cm by 1 cm—so customers might
easily overlook it.
Additional Information About the Software Reinstall Drive
The drive is read-only. You cannot use it to store other software or to save Windows support software as part of the Boot Camp installation process.
The drive is designed for use only with the MacBook Air (Late 2010). You cannot use the software installers to install Mac OS X, iLife, or iWork on
other computers.
Starting a computer other than the MacBook Air (Late 2010) from the drive disables all Mac OS X installer options except for Time Machine Restore,
available from the Utilities menu.
The version of Apple Hardware Test on this drive is designed only for the MacBook Air (Late 2010).
Liquid Contact Indicators
To help discover liquid damage to the computer, MacBook Air (Late 2010) includes several spill sensors called liquid contact indicators (LCI). The
sensors are only visible when the bottom case and most of the modules have been removed. Normally represented by small white dots, the LCIs turn red
when they have come in contact with liquid, such as an accidental spill.
Note: Service technicians should refer to the MacBook Air (Late 2010) Apple Technician Guide, and Apple support article HT3400, "About liquid
submersion indicators (LSI) on portable and desktop computers".
The illustration below shows the general location of the LCIs in this computer. For LCIs that are not readily visible with the bottom case removed, check
the same area under cables or on the other side of modules.
Location of Liquid Contact Indicators: MacBook Air (11-inch, Late 2010)
LCI Indicators on Top Case:
Location of Liquid Contact Indicators: MacBook Air (13-inch, Late 2010)
LCI Indicators on Top Case:
LCI Indicators on Underside of Battery Module:
Logic Board Handling
The logic board is one of the most sensitive parts of the computer. Handling this with care is important. Some things you should remember about the
logic board:
Never flex the logic board.
Handle the logic boards by the edges.
Connectors should be disconnected and connected with care; refer the Apple Technician Guide if you are unsure how to disconnect/connect a cable.
In order to remove/replace a logic board there are ten (10) cables that must be removed.
When replacing the logic board you should follow the screw replacement order in the Apple Technician Guide.
When replacing a logic board DO NOT transfer the heat sink. All logic boards will come with a heat sink pre-installed.
Use Kapton tape to install the keyboard flex cable. Remove the Kapton tape once the cable has been secured.
Bottom Case
The bottom case requires care when you remove or replace. Use a soft cloth to prevent scratching or other cosmetic damage. Some things you should
remember about the bottom case:
Use a protective cloth when working on the bottom case to prevent scratching.
Replace all screws in the order shown in the Apple Technician Guide.
Attach the protective battery cover immediately after removing the bottom cover. (Do this before removing the battery and disconnecting battery cable.)
Pentalobe Screwdriver
The pentalobe screwdriver is used to remove the bottom case from the unit. This screwdriver is required, do not attempt to remove the bottom case with
any other tool. Special screws are used to secure the bottom case. Failure to use the Pentalobe screwdriver could result in stripped screws and a damaged
unit.
Use Extreme Care When Working Inside
Patience, finesse, and a soft touch are crucial when servicing MacBook Air (Late 2010). Extreme care must be taken when working inside this unit, due
to extremely small parts and very fragile components and cables. With the product’s thin enclosure height, the placement of parts and wiring is more
critical than ever before.
Tips:
It’s always a good idea to keep your work area very clean, and it’s especially true with this product, to avoid scratches and other cosmetic damage.
During assembly and disassembly, note cable routing & reassemble in the same manner (hint: take photos with a digital camera to note cable and
component positions). Verify that cables do not route over components when they should route into lower positions or channels.
Verify that cables are not strained or applying pressure onto other components. Some internal cables are extremely fragile and could break easily.
Because of new, environmentally friendly Halogen-free materials, cables may tend to be stiffer and less pliable and thus require careful handling to avoid
damage.
Display and Camera Connection
Tips for Display Cable
Gently flip metal bale to unlock connector
Pull cable, not locking bar
Fully install cable; make sure no gold traces are visible
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Service Training
MacBook Air
Introduction
Course Exercise Answer Key
Getting Started
MacBook Air Overview
Course Exercise
Compare your answers to those shown here. Correct answers are in bold.
MacBook Air
(2008-2009)
Overview
Troubleshooting Issues
Repair Issues
MacBook Air
(Late 2010)
Overview
Service Issues
Review
Exercise Answer Key
Service Training
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1. Sandra says her MacBook Air (Late 2010) box is missing a USB Ethernet Adapter. What should you tell her?
A. No adapter is necessary for this computer.
B. No adapter is included in the box.
2. How does the MacBook Air (Late 2010) trackpad behavior differ from that of the MacBook Air (Original) trackpad?
A. It has no differences.
B. It supports fewer gestures.
C. It supports more gestures.
D. It adds some gestures and removes others.
3. The MacBook Air (Late 2010) is not compatible with the Apple Remote because:
A. MacBook Air (Late 2010) is not equipped with an infrared (IR) port
B. MacBook Air (Late 2010) is not equipped with Bluetooth
C. Apple Remote devices only work with Mac OS X 10.4
D. MacBook Air is not compatible with Front Row
4. The MacBook Air (Late 2010) does not include a built-in optical drive. Instead of Mac OS X and bundled software installation CDs or DVDs, it
ships with:
A. Firewire hard drive labeled "Mac OS X Reinstall"
B. Firewire hard drive labeled "Software Reinstall Drive"
C. USB flash drive labeled "Mac OS X Reinstall"
D. USB flash drive labeled "Software Reinstall Drive"
5. To help discover liquid damage to the computer, MacBook Air (Late 2010) includes several spill sensors called:
A. Liquid Damage Indicators (LDI)
B. Liquid Interference Indicators (LII)
C. Liquid Detection Indicator (LDI)
D. Liquid Contact Indicators (LCI)
E. Liquid Spill Indicator (LSI)
6. Which System Preferences pane contains the four-finger gesture settings for the MacBook Air (Late 2008-Late 2010)?
A. Keyboard & Mouse
B. Trackpad
C. Gesture
D. Touch
7. The _____ screwdriver is used to remove the bottom case screws from the MacBook Air (Late 2010).
A. Torx-8
B. Torx-6
C. Security Torx
D. Pentalobe
E. Hexagon
8. Internal components are interchangeable between the original MacBook Air and MacBook Air (Late 2008).
A. True
B. False
9. Tessa has a MacBook Air (Mid 2009) with a 128 GB Solid State Drive. She asks why the capacity is about 113 GB. What should you tell Tessa?
A. Your hard disk may have directory damage.
B. This is a known issue. The drive will need to be replaced.
C. This is a symptom of accidental damage and is not covered under warranty.
D. This is normal because SSD drives have a lower formatted capacity than traditional drives.
10. The System Management Controller (SMC) controls power functions on the MacBook Air (Late 2010). Reset the SMC by shutting down the
computer, connecting the power adapter and on the left side of the built-in keyboard:
A. Hold down Shift-Control-Option, then press power key once
B. Hold down Shift-Control-S, then press power key once
C. Hold down Shift-Control-Command for 10 seconds
D. Hold down Shift-Control-Escape for 10 seconds
Apple Support Page Exercise
Access the current MacBook Air Support page and answer the following questions:
1. How do you perform a remote install of Mac OS X onto a MacBook Air?
1. Insert the Mac OS X or Mac OS X Server Install Disc into the optical disc drive of the other computer.
2. If the other computer is a Mac, open /Applications/Utilities/Remote Install Mac OS X. On Windows, choose "Remote Install Mac OS
X" from the Install Assistant.
3. Read the introduction and click Continue.
4. Choose the install disc you want to use, and click Continue.
5. Choose a network connection: AirPort, if you are using an AirPort network, or Ethernet, if the other computer is on an Ethernet
network and you have an optional Apple USB Ethernet Adapter connecting your MacBook Air to the same network. Click Continue.
6. Restart your MacBook Air and hold down the Option key as it starts up, until you see a list of available startup disks.
7. Click Continue in Remote Install Mac OS X.
8. If you chose AirPort as your network in step 5, on your MacBook Air choose your AirPort network from the pop-up list.
If the network is secure, you are prompted for a password. You can enter a private network name by choosing the ellipsis (...) and
typing the name.
9. If you chose AirPort as your network in step 5, when you see the AirPort status icon indicating signal strength, click Continue in
Remote Install Mac OS X.
2. Can you share DVD or CD content between a MacBook Air and another Mac?
Yes. You can do so by using Remote Disc.
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This concludes the MacBook Air course.