Poor WiFI antenna in my MBP Intel Core 2 Duo

So my son has the lower cost MacBook, and I have the fancy MBP.
Neither of us is having any problems with our systems.
We're visiting my folks in their over-55 condo complex, and as usual I turn my computer on hoping to find an open wireless somewhere out there in the ethers. I can find one but it's encrypted so I can't get in. my son proclaims that he just turned his computer on and has 2 open linksys networks, one of which he just logged into. So here we are sitting next to each other, he's got 4 bars on a linksys wifi somewhere out there, and I've got nothing. Obviously, his antenna is better than mine. Any idea why, or how to switch mine?
Steve

This may be related to the thread "MacBook Pro (Late 2008) Wireless Issues" and you might want to post this there. Also, as moderators have pointed out, on top of posting here for possible solutions, get a ticket in with AppleCare because it is Apple's metric for finding problems. The more people call into AppleCare with issues, the higher of a priority it becomes.

Similar Messages

MBP - Intel Core 2 Duo (2008) - Scalding hot, Fans at 6000rpm

Hi all,
I've been searching for months now for an answer to this dilemma, but I can't seem to find anything that's fixed the problem. I would love to avoid bringing this thing in if possible.
My specs: MBP Intel Core-2 Duo 2.33mHz, 3GB RAM, running OSX 10.7.5 - This thing has been with me for a while and has really stood the test of time thus far.
For the past few years, this thing has just run scalding hot temperatures (around 135-140 F), with fan speeds usually up at about 6000rpms. So it's super hot, super loud - with, according to my sytem monitor, only 5-8% of the CPU resources being used. All it takes is a single application, be it a web browser or anything that even engages the CPU to get it up to those levels. Closing everything rarely leads to it cooling off and quieting down.
I'm fully up-to-date with firmware. I recently swapped the HD to a 500GB seagate and thought that had solved the problem, but it started back up a few days later.
Could this be a heat sink problem?
Literally ANY help would be so tremendously appreciated.
Thanks so much!

Well, it's possible there is a hardware problem such as a loose or disconnected temperature sensor. You may wish to try running the hardware diagnostics to see if they provide any useful information:
Using Apple Hardware Test
Intel-based Macs- Using Apple Hardware Test
Intel-based Macs- Starting up into Apple Hardware Test
If nothing pops up then take it in for service. Do not continue to use it with this problem present or you may damage it further.

Disk Warrior 4.2 on Mini Intel Core 2 Duo with OS 10.6 won't boot...

Disk Warrior 4.2 works on my MBP Intel Core 2 Duo, but not on my
Mac Mini Intel Core 2 Duo. I did the DW update to 4.2 and inserted it into my MBP... worked fine. Did the same on my Mac Mini (both have 10.6 OS) and all it would do is give me the start up chime (holding C down of course) over and over and over. When I would finally let up on the C, it would boot into 10.6, showing the DW disk on the desktop.
Any ideas? I've repaired permissions on the Mini and tried again... same result. Thanks....

The DiskWarrior folks state that the 4.2 update disc that you make will only start the same computers that the original disc that you bought from them was able to start.
If your DW update disc does meet those requirements on your Mini, then you may have to try remaking a new update disc, perhaps using a different brand of DVD/CD media.

Mbp 2.53ghz intel core 2 duo over heat

my mbp is over 70c I installed SMcFanControl and the fan is ruynning about 3,500rpm
which the normal temp on MBP 2.53ghz intel core 2 duo???
the status on Istat about the fan say: Fan Exhaust?
Help please
greetings

I have mixed feelings on that subject. The downside is more wear and tear on the fans and lower battery life. The upside is that, and perhaps more important, it does dissipate more heat.
I simply take the position that the Apple engineers know what they are dealing with and have designed the cooling system such that additional modifications are not necessary. However I have on occasions placed my MBP on large aluminum plates to act as large heat sinks when using the MBP for lengthy periods of time where much heat is generated, such as watching video.
General rule: If you can keep it cooler, so much the better.
Ciao.

More space for MBP 2.33 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo

Hello,
I´ve a MBP 15"/2.33 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo/4 GB 667 Mhz Ram/ Mac OSX 10.5.6, with a 120 GB hard drive. I use external drives and I´ve lots of stuff outside, but a bigger drive would be better.
Is it possible to change for a bigger hard drive?
If so, how big? Brand suggestion?
Thank you very much.
Regards.
L.

Hi Neuroanatomist (or any other Mac Friend), a little help ,-) please.
I just bought this 320 GB/5400 rpm Fujitsu drive for my MBP 15" 2.33.
The local TB Apple store gave me a period of 72 hours to replace the drive...I can´t wait so much time without working. So I must do the drive replacement myself. Is there a tutorial (text, pictures, video?) to help open the MBP, replace the drive and get my computer from Time machine?
Thanks very much for your help.
Regards.
Luis
ps. I´ve 6 precision screwdrivers from 1.0 mm to 3,8 mm.

RAM upgrade for MBP 2.2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo

I have a MBP 2.2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo currently with 2 GB of RAM and with all the work I do on it I would like to upgrade to 4 GB. Purchasing the RAM through Apple is out of the question because it so expensive.
I would like to know what is the best brand to buy and on what website.. Is an upgrade to 4 GB possible for my MBP? It looks like I have my "Bank 0/DIMM0" filled with 1 GB DDR2 SDRAM 667 MHz and my "Bank 1/DIMM1" filled with the same thing. Does this mean that both of my RAM slots are full AND if I want to upgrade my RAM I'll have to purchase 2 sets of 2 GB RAM? Please help as I am new to all of the tech stuff...
Another side note... I've noticed that some discussions have stated that some MBP are only upgradable to 3 GB of RAM, but I'm pretty sure that I can upgrade mine to 4 GB of RAM. Can anyone shed any light on this?
Your help is much appreciated...

yes, both of your RAM slots are full, so to get 4GB you will have to get 2 2GB sticks. Having the same model I can safely assure you that it will recognize all 4GB of the new Ram.
as for brands, there have been many I have seen recommended on this board, but one name seems to pop up consistently is Kensington, I picked up my ram from the store I bought my laptop at, so I couldn't recommend a site, sorry

MBP 15" intel core 2 duo keeps crashing with distorted screen

Why does my macbook pro 15" intel core 2 duo keep on freezing or crashing with a distorted screen?
It doesn't seem to give any pattern when it randomly crashes. According to the hardware test, there's no problem.
But after doing the full hardware test everything seems ok again for a few days then crashes again with a distorted screen. Has anyone else out there experienced this as well? Help please!

Like i said in the first post, i already did the SMC reset. This is very strange because sometimes the macbook can stay up with no problems for a very long time, like 24 horas staright and nothing happens. Than i put two 720p videos that have a 30 minutes duration and nothing happen also. The fans worked like **** but it keep together. So i don't know. Does the graphic card have a so random behaviour like that? I can't find the scenario that triggers that black bars and freeze it happens from time to time.
Can somebody help me? At least to find out what triggers tha behaviour.

17" 2.6Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo MacBook Pro, Poor Wireless Performance.

I have a (brand new refurb) 17" 2.6Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo MacBook Pro. The wireless drops down to null every minute. My old G4 Powerbook works better connection wise. Could there be a problem with the strength capability of the MacBook Pro?

This will fit:
http://store.apple.com/us/product/MA458LL/A/rechargeable-battery-17-inch-macbook -pro?fnode=5a
Ciao.

MacBook Pro, OS 10.6.8/2.8 GHz/Intel Core 2 Duo/with 4 G memory and would like to hook up an external monitor.

I have a MacBook Pro, OS 10.6.8/2.8 GHz/Intel Core 2 Duo/with 4 G memory and would like to add an external monitor. I have the usual ports; 2 USBs, Ethernet, as well as a couple small ports that I do not know what they are for... sorry . First of all, is it possible to add a monitor or TV screen for a larger screen when using? Secondly, if this can be done, what do I need to buy?
Thanks so much!

Yes, it should be possible. I think every MacBook Pro ever sold has some kind of port for an external monitor. You would have to nail down which kind of port your MBP has and where on your MBP it is located.
Can you find the little "getting started" pamphlet, manual, or PDF that came with it? It should name the connectors.
My guess? If the only ports you have besides USB and Ethernet are smaller than those, you could have a Mini DisplayPort.

HT1338 Can I update my Mini 2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo /4 GB 667 MHz DDR2?

My Mini -- 2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo /4 GB 667 MHz DDR2 —is "mid 2007".
What happens if I try to install Mtn Lion?
Because there is a lot of buggy stuff about 10.7.x. For instance,
Wifi does not maintain a steady connection when using a non-airport wireless router (maddening when it goes "looking for Networks" when there is a steady signal coming from the modem. This is consistently a buzz-kill when streaming virtually any video, and consistently happens w/ netfix.
No, it's not the wifi router. Non-Apple equip has rock steady wifi signal and smooth, HD streaming.
Hardwired w/ Cat5, streaming video is no problem--and yes, I have trashed and reloaded Airport Utility, which definitely appears to be the culprit.
Itunes does all kinds of wonky things w/ smart playlists, etc/. etc.
Bluetooth has a mind of it's own--forgetting it's already paired to an Apple keyboard and trackpad when I power up another Mac within 20 feet.
DVD Player is so eratic I have given up and gone to VLC altogether--not quite as elegant an interface, but at least it's consistent AND alows me to jump over the junk promos studios insist I can't skip when played on DVD Player
In short —All the usual loose ends the software update never gets around to addressing, but that typically an upgrade will fix.
Theoretically, Mtn. Lion will only work on 2009 and later Mini's, but aside from buggy OS, (and, uh, eratic breaks in wifi signal) this mini works fine as a media center.
So what happens if I try to upgrade?
Is there perhaps a firmware update or a work around?
Yes, I am aware the unit is 5 years old, but I am strongly opposed to being strong-armed into buying new equip because of Apple's ever increasing tendency to eliminate legacy compatibillity. Sure it's good for Apple, but terrible for both the environment and people like me on a fixed income in this economy. Why toss a perfectly functional unit just to make the richest corporation in the world (or 2nd, whatever) richer?
Thanks

Many thanks for your prompt reponse. I expected as much, but thought the question worth asking.
Must admit it escapes why Mtn Lion should not be more broadly accessible, except for the blatant greed factor, which is growing increasingly tiresome.
I bought my 1st PowerBook in the late 80's for close to $3,000 and was a loyal evangelist for decades—both purchasing and recommending many, many Macs, until I started to buy a new MacBook Pro last year and encountered all that thunderbolt/HDMI baloney. Then I started taking a harder look at whether Apple was genuinely attemtping to meet loyal user's needs, or simply exploiting the strength of the brand by non-legacy compatibility to drive increased sales.
Looking around a tad after I posted, the erratic wifi problem appears to be endemic--not just minis and not just 10.7.
I've gone through all the fixes, but Lion stubbornly persists in giving the flakest wif around--which is my main reason for wanting to try Mtn. Lion. The rest of the new, uh, "features" definitely strike me as onanistic tweaking added gimmicks in the OS for tweaker's sake--no significant gain in usability.
Remember when stability was the Apple OS's chief virtue? Ah, those were the days!
Now I am waiting for the Kool-Aid quaffers to start wising up before I can begin shorting the grossly over-valued stock. The iPhone is losing ground fast. Arrogant development and marketing strategies the likes of which driving Apple these days never last forever. Remember as well when Microsoft caused fear and trembling with it's heedless hegemony? Or how about IBM? Or AOL? Technology has a way of dealing with hubris.
Best wishes for all, &c.

IMac CPU3.06 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 8GB, Extremely slow and repeatedly "out of Memory" since migration from Mountain Lion to Mavericks

Dear Apple Support Community.
As mentioned by a number of users reporting the same problem, my 2009 iMac CPU3.06 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 8GB RAM, has become extremely slow and repeatedly "out of Memory" since it was migrated from Mountain Lion to Mavericks (OS 10.9 then OS 10.9.1).
I have already run CleanMyMac, deleted 5GB of useless stuffs, which did not translate into any improvement. Following the advices collected in other Apple Support Community threads, I have applied EtreCheck the outcome of which is provided below.
For information, I have also upgraded my 2011 MacBook CPU2.3 GHz Core i7, 8GB which became only a bit slower than before, sometimes freezing which it almost never did before. However, I am used to the fact that Mac get usually slower and more prompt fo freeze after upgrading to a more recent OS.
Both my 2009 iMac and my 2011 MacBook have F-Secure installed. So the problem with the 2009 IMac is unlikly to be due to the presence of F-Secure. Interestingly, the few abnormalities found by Etrecheck were exacly identical before I ran CleanMyMac. There are two more findings (mentioned below) since I ran CleanMyMac on the 2009 iMac, which again didn't improve the problem.
So please find below the details of the EtreCheck experience and some additional measurements made with iStat while running EtreCheck:
Hardware Information:
iMac (24-inch, Early 2009)
iMac - model: iMac9,1
1 3.06 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo CPU: 2 cores
8 GB RAM
Video Information:
ATI Radeon HD 4850 - VRAM: 512 MB
Audio Plug-ins:
BluetoothAudioPlugIn: Version: 1.0 - SDK 10.9
AirPlay: Version: 1.9 - SDK 10.9
AppleAVBAudio: Version: 2.0.0 - SDK 10.9
iSightAudio: Version: 7.7.3 - SDK 10.9
System Software:
OS X 10.9.1 (13B42) - Uptime: 0 days 2:40:57
Disk Information:
WDC WD1001FALS-40K1B0 disk0 : (1 TB)
EFI (disk0s1) <not mounted>: 209.7 MB
XooS5 HD (disk0s2) /: 999.35 GB (189.85 GB free)
Recovery HD (disk0s3) <not mounted>: 650 MB
OPTIARC DVD RW AD-5670S
USB Information:
Apple Inc. Built-in iSight
Canon CanoScan
Apple Computer, Inc. IR Receiver
Apple Inc. BRCM2046 Hub
Apple Inc. Bluetooth USB Host Controller
FireWire Information:
WD My Passport 071D 800mbit - 800mbit max
EFI (disk1s1) <not mounted>: 209.7 MB
disk1s2 (disk1s2) <not mounted>: 2 TB
Boot OS X (disk1s3) <not mounted>: 134.2 MB
Thunderbolt Information:
Kernel Extensions:
com.f-secure.kext.fsauth          (1.0.0d1)
Problem System Launch Daemons:
[failed] com.apple.wdhelper.plist [REMARK: this abnormality appeared only after running CleanMyMac. It does not appear on my 2011 MacBook]
Problem System Launch Agents:
Launch Daemons:
[loaded] com.adobe.fpsaud.plist
[invalid] com.bjango.istatlocaldaemon.plist [REMARK: this abnormality pre-existed to running CleanMyMac. It appears also on my 2011 MacBook]
[loaded] com.f-secure.fsavd.dbhelper.plist
[loaded] com.f-secure.fsavd.plist
[loaded] com.f-secure.fsmac.firewall.plist
[loaded] com.f-secure.fsmac.fsupdated_guts2.plist
[loaded] com.f-secure.fsmac.licensetool.plist
[loaded] com.macpaw.CleanMyMac2.Agent.plist
Launch Agents:
[loaded] com.babylon.activation.plist
[loaded] com.bjango.istatlocal.plist
[loaded] com.f-secure.relauncher.plist
[loaded] com.f-secure.trasher.plist
User Launch Agents:
[loaded] com.adobe.ARM.[...].plist
[loaded] com.google.keystone.agent.plist
[loaded] com.macpaw.CleanMyMac2Helper.diskSpaceWatcher.plist
[loaded] com.macpaw.CleanMyMac2Helper.scheduledScan.plist
[loaded] com.macpaw.CleanMyMac2Helper.trashWatcher.plist
User Login Items:
iTunesHelper
Dropbox
F-Secure Anti-Virus for MAC
3rd Party Preference Panes:
Flash Player
Internet Plug-ins::
FlashPlayer-10.6: Version: 11.9.900.170 - SDK 10.6
Default Browser: Version: 537 - SDK 10.9
AdobePDFViewerNPAPI: Version: 11.0.04 - SDK 10.6
AdobePDFViewer: Version: 11.0.04 - SDK 10.6
DivXBrowserPlugin: Version: 2.1
Flash Player: Version: 11.9.900.170 - SDK 10.6
OfficeLiveBrowserPlugin: Version: 12.2.8
Google Earth Web Plug-in: Version: 6.1
QuickTime Plugin: Version: 7.7.3
iPhotoPhotocast: Version: 7.0
User Internet Plug-ins::
Picasa: Version: 1.0
Bad Fonts:
None
Old applications:
None
Time Machine:
Skip System Files: NO
Mobile backups: OFF
Auto backup: YES
Volumes being backed up:
XooS5 HD: Disk size: 930.71 GB Disk used: 753.90 GB
Destinations:
XooS5 TM [Local] (Last used)
Total size: 2
Total number of backups: 32
Oldest backup: 2013-09-15 01:11:39 +0000
Last backup: 2013-12-07 12:48:45 +0000
Size of backup disk: Too small. Backup size 2 < (Disk used 753.90 GB X 3)
Time Machine details may not be accurate. All volumes being backed up may not be listed.
REMARK: The above finding is unlikely to be accurate. In fact, my Time Machine is supported by a 2TB WD My Passport Studio external HD connected with a Firewire 800. As mentionned, only 754GB of the 2000GB are used.
Top Processes by CPU:
5%          backupd
5%          Mail
5%          WindowServer
3%          Finder
3%          Dropbox
Top Processes by Memory:
1.60 GB          mds_stores REMARK: this item was marked in red in the outcome of EtreCheck, so I assume there is something wrong there
82 MB          Finder
74 MB          Mail
49 MB          softwareupdated
49 MB          Dropbox
Virtual Memory Statistics:
97 MB          Free RAM
1.21 GB          Active RAM
1.19 GB          Inactive RAM
1.21 GB          Wired RAM
1.83 GB          Page-ins
36 MB          Page-outs
Please find now some additional measurements collected with iStat while running EtreCheck:
Practically:
The iMac can work slowly with only one software e.g. either Mail or Safari or Firefox, but still the below "out of Memory" message occurs about every 3 minutes.
Aperture has becomre to slow to be useable
If trying to write a mail (with Mail) while Safari or Firefox is open, then the "out of Memory" message occurs about every 20 seconds so I need to check on "Resume" several times per minute.
Conclusions
From the above, unless anyone in the Apple Support Community proves to be able to identify a specific problem leading to a way to find a cure, I tend to conclude that Mavericks is not suitable for computers operating with a Core 2 Duo CPU even with a 8GB of RAM.
Unless I missed something, I did not see any warning from Apple Computer Inc. informing their customers they should refrain from upgrading Core 2 Duo Computers.
The only solution I see so far is to downgrade from Mavericks to Mountain Lion. And the Apple Support Community would confirm that it is the only solution, I would appreciate to get your guidance on how to proceed.
Intended action plan
Migrate the above 2009 iMac to a 2014 Mac Mini Server operating on Mavericks to ensure that no data may be lost while downgrading to Montain Lion.
Provided the above downgrading operation is successful, assign this 2009 iMac to partial retirement e.g. Mail, Skype, iTunes and DVD player.
In advance, I would like to thank the Apple Community for helping me either i) finding a cure to the problem, ii) or confirming that Mavericks cannot operate properly on Core 2 Duo computers, iii) and in such a case, guiding me on how to downgrade to Mountain Lion.
Yours sincerely
Core

... what anti-virus would you recommend using?
Use what is already included with OS X. It already includes everything it needs to protect itself from viruses and malware. Keep it that way with software updates from Apple.
A much better question is "how should I protect my Mac":
Never install any product that claims to "speed up", "clean up", "optimize", or "accelerate" your Mac. Without exception, they will do the opposite.
Never install pirated or "cracked" software, software obtained from dubious websites, or other questionable sources. Illegally obtained software is almost certain to contain malware.
Don’t supply your password in response to a popup window requesting it, unless you know what it is and the reason your credentials are required.
Don’t open email attachments from email addresses that you do not recognize, or click links contained in an email:
Most of these are scams that direct you to fraudulent sites that attempt to convince you to disclose personal information.
Such "phishing" attempts are the 21st century equivalent of a social exploit that has existed since the dawn of civilization. Don’t fall for it.
Apple will never ask you to reveal personal information in an email. If you receive an unexpected email from Apple saying your account will be closed unless you take immediate action, just ignore it. If your iTunes or App Store account becomes disabled for valid reasons, you will know when you try to buy something or log in to this support site, and are unable to.
Don’t install browser extensions unless you understand their purpose. Go to the Safari menu > Preferences > Extensions. If you see any extensions that you do not recognize or understand, simply click the Uninstall button and they will be gone.
Don’t install Java unless you are certain that you need it:
Java, a non-Apple product, is a potential vector for malware. If you are required to use Java, be mindful of that possibility.
Disable Java in Safari > Preferences > Security.
Despite its name JavaScript is unrelated to Java. No malware can infect your Mac through JavaScript. It’s OK to leave it enabled.
Block browser popups: Safari menu > Preferences > Security > and check "Block popup windows":
Popup windows are useful and required for some websites, but popups have devolved to become a common means to deliver targeted advertising that you probably do not want.
Popups themselves cannot infect your Mac, but many contain resource-hungry code that will slow down Internet browsing.
If you ever see a popup indicating it detected registry errors, that your Mac is infected with some ick, or that you won some prize, it is 100% fraudulent. Ignore it.
Ignore hyperventilating popular media outlets that thrive by promoting fear and discord with entertainment products arrogantly presented as "news". Learn what real threats actually exist and how to arm yourself against them:
The most serious threat to your data security is phishing. To date, most of these attempts have been pathetic and are easily recognized, but that is likely to change in the future as criminals become more clever.
OS X viruses do not exist, but intentionally malicious or poorly written code, created by either nefarious or inept individuals, is nothing new.
Never install something without first knowing what it is, what it does, how it works, and how to get rid of it when you don’t want it any more.
If you elect to use "anti-virus" software, familiarize yourself with its limitations and potential to cause adverse effects, and apply the principle immediately preceding this one.
Most such utilities will only slow down and destabilize your Mac while they look for viruses that do not exist, conveying no benefit whatsoever - other than to make you "feel good" about security, when you should actually be exercising sound judgment, derived from accurate knowledge, based on verifiable facts.
Do install updates from Apple as they become available. No one knows more about Macs and how to protect them than the company that builds them.
Summary: Use common sense and caution when you use your Mac, just like you would in any social context. There is no product, utility, or magic talisman that can protect you from all the evils of mankind.

I have a MacBook Pro 13inch 2.4GHz (Intel Core 2 Duo, 4Gb RAM, 250Gb HDD, NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics, SD card slot, up to 10 hour battery life)bought in October 2010 in the UK. The charger has stopped working. Which model and voltage do I need please?

I have a MacBook Pro 13inch 2.4GHz (Intel Core 2 Duo, 4Gb RAM, 250Gb HDD, NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics, SD card slot, up to 10 hour battery life) bought in October 2010. The charger has been playing up for a while now - the light going out but coming back on when I move the cable a bit - faulty connection it seems. It has now stopped working at all.
Apple UK charge a whopping £65 for a replacement - and the reviews are AWFUL for it!
I need to know which one I need - 45w, 60w and 80w are listed - can someone tell me please? If I'm going to pay this price I want to make sure I get the right one!
Also, is a genuine Apple one available on Amazon UK, does anyone know please?
Any help will be much appreciated.
Meanwhile my battery is going down.....

Thanks for that wjosten. Much appreciated.
I've read here on Apple's site that the 85W version will work, as you say, and that it would run cooler with a 13" Macbook - I have a 13" MBP of course but assume this would be the same with mine. I wonder if running cooler is a good thing (it sounds as if it is) and it would be better for me to get the 85W version than the 60W one?
Then I have to decide whether to pay the (extortionate as it seems to me, though I may be wrong) £65 from Apple (bearing in mind the rotten reviews here of the Apple product), or risk a cheaper alternative from Amazon UK, at around £20 (also with various rotten reviews)... Any suggestions? Please? :-)

Macbook Pro Mid 2009 Processor 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, Memory 2 GB 1067 MHz DDR3. iOS 10.10.1 (14B25). My mac is running slow and have ran EtreCheck. Please help me fix my mac. Thanks!

Macbook Pro Mid 2009 Processor 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, Memory 2 GB 1067 MHz DDR3. iOS 10.10.1 (14B25). My mac is running slow and have ran EtreCheck. Please help me fix my mac. Thanks!
Problem description:
My mac has been very slow lately. Any suggestions?
EtreCheck version: 2.1.2 (105)
Report generated December 14, 2014 at 8:15:29 PM PST
Hardware Information: ℹ️
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009) (Verified)
MacBook Pro - model: MacBookPro5,5
1 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo CPU: 2-core
2 GB RAM Upgradeable
BANK 0/DIMM0
1 GB DDR3 1067 MHz ok
BANK 1/DIMM0
1 GB DDR3 1067 MHz ok
Bluetooth: Old - Handoff/Airdrop2 not supported
Wireless: en1: 802.11 a/b/g/n
Video Information: ℹ️
NVIDIA GeForce 9400M - VRAM: 256 MB
Color LCD 1280 x 800
System Software: ℹ️
OS X 10.10.1 (14B25) - Uptime: 0:54:52
Disk Information: ℹ️
Hitachi HTS545016B9SA02 disk0 : (160.04 GB)
S.M.A.R.T. Status: Verified
EFI (disk0s1) <not mounted> : 210 MB
MacHD (disk0s2) / : 159.05 GB (49.15 GB free)
Recovery HD (disk0s3) <not mounted> [Recovery]: 650 MB
HL-DT-ST DVDRW GS23N
USB Information: ℹ️
Apple Inc. Built-in iSight
Apple Internal Memory Card Reader
Apple Inc. BRCM2046 Hub
Apple Inc. Bluetooth USB Host Controller
Apple Inc. Apple Internal Keyboard / Trackpad
Apple Computer, Inc. IR Receiver
Gatekeeper: ℹ️
Mac App Store and identified developers
Startup Items: ℹ️
DVD3EnablerService: Path: /Library/StartupItems/DVD3EnablerService
Startup items are obsolete in OS X Yosemite
Problem System Launch Agents: ℹ️
[failed] com.apple.AirPlayUIAgent.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.CallHistoryPluginHelper.plist
[failed] com.apple.coreservices.appleid.authentication.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.icloud.fmfd.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.secd.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.security.cloudkeychainproxy.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.telephonyutilities.callservicesd.plist [Details]
Problem System Launch Daemons: ℹ️
[failed] com.apple.ctkd.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.icloud.findmydeviced.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.ifdreader.plist
[failed] com.apple.nehelper.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.softwareupdate_download_service.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.wdhelper.plist [Details]
[failed] com.apple.xpc.smd.plist [Details]
Launch Agents: ℹ️
[loaded] com.google.keystone.agent.plist [Support]
[invalid?] com.oracle.java.Java-Updater.plist [Support]
[not loaded] com.teamviewer.teamviewer.plist [Support]
[not loaded] com.teamviewer.teamviewer_desktop.plist [Support]
Launch Daemons: ℹ️
[running] com.adobe.ARM.[...].plist [Support]
[loaded] com.adobe.fpsaud.plist [Support]
[loaded] com.google.keystone.daemon.plist [Support]
[invalid?] com.oracle.java.Helper-Tool.plist [Support]
[not loaded] com.teamviewer.teamviewer_service.plist [Support]
User Launch Agents: ℹ️
[loaded] com.adobe.ARM.[...].plist [Support]
[invalid?] com.nds.pcshow.plist [Support]
[invalid?] com.nds.pcshow.uninstall.plist [Support]
User Login Items: ℹ️
None
Internet Plug-ins: ℹ️
WidevineMediaOptimizer: Version: 6.0.0.12757 - SDK 10.7 [Support]
FlashPlayer-10.6: Version: 16.0.0.235 - SDK 10.6 [Support]
QuickTime Plugin: Version: 7.7.3
AdobePDFViewerNPAPI: Version: 11.0.10 - SDK 10.6 [Support]
AdobePDFViewer: Version: 11.0.10 - SDK 10.6 [Support]
Flash Player: Version: 16.0.0.235 - SDK 10.6 [Support]
Default Browser: Version: 600 - SDK 10.10
Silverlight: Version: 5.1.30514.0 - SDK 10.6 [Support]
iPhotoPhotocast: Version: 7.0
3rd Party Preference Panes: ℹ️
Flash Player [Support]
Time Machine: ℹ️
Mobile backups: OFF
Auto backup: NO - Auto backup turned off
Volumes being backed up:
MacHD: Disk size: 159.05 GB Disk used: 109.90 GB
Destinations:
KINGSTON [Local]
Total size: 30.88 GB
Total number of backups: 0
Oldest backup: -
Last backup: -
Size of backup disk: Too small
Backup size 30.88 GB < (Disk used 109.90 GB X 3)
Top Processes by CPU: ℹ️
      6% WindowServer
      0% AppleSpell
      0% SystemUIServer
      0% powerd
      0% Google Chrome
Top Processes by Memory: ℹ️
131 MB softwareupdated
112 MB Google Chrome
41 MB Finder
34 MB Google Chrome Helper
32 MB WindowServer
Virtual Memory Information: ℹ️
51 MB Free RAM
587 MB Active RAM
551 MB Inactive RAM
350 MB Wired RAM
10.96 GB Page-ins
865 MB Page-outs
Diagnostics Information: ℹ️
Dec 14, 2014, 07:37:58 PM Install Adobe Flash Player_2014-12-14-193758_[redacted].crash
Dec 14, 2014, 07:21:27 PM Self test - passed

Please describe the problem in as much relevant detail as possible. The "etrecheck" fad hasn't made that step any less necessary. The usual results of posting etrecheck output on this site without a full description of the problem are very poor.
The many "failed" warnings that etrecheck sometimes spews mean nothing. Those warnings are not a reason to reinstall the OS, or to do anything else at all. They should be ignored.
The better your description of the problem, the better the chance of a solution.
For example, if the computer is slow, which specific actions are slow? Is it slow all the time, or only sometimes? What changes did you make, if any, just before it became slow? Have you seen any alerts or error messages? Have you done anything to try to fix it? Most importantly, do you have a current backup of all data? If the answer to the last question is "no," back up now. Ask if you need guidance. Do nothing else until you have a backup.

Late 2006, 24" iMac, 2.16 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, Screen Tearing, nVidia 7300

Late 2006, 24" iMac, 2.16 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, Screen Tearing, nVidia GeForce 7300 GT
I've been suffering with screen tearing, strange screen artifacts, etc. followed by totally unresponsive freezing machine. This problem has been happening to varying degrees for about 9 months.
Initially, I was able to mitigate the problem with smcFanControl. Adjusting the fan speeds up helped keep the machine cool and prevent most of the problems. Recently, we had a spell of hot weather and the fans just couldn't keep up. If you're using smcFanControl, the only fan speed that will really make a difference is the CPU. The HDD and ODD fans are no where near where you need to be.
Also, I noticed the machine was LOADED with dust when I took it apart, including the heat sink fins for the graphics card. If you have time you may want to try a thorough cleaning with compressed air before replacing the card. You just need to get through step 11 below to access what needs to be cleaned.
Based on reading here and elsewhere, I decided to replace the graphics card. To give back to the community, I wanted to layout the procedure here.
Where to buy the card.
I had a tough time finding the right card. I did exhaustive web searches using every combination of Nvidia 7300 GT, etc. You really need to search by the Apple part number. The Apple part number for the 7300 is 661-4179, for the 7600 is 661-4180. I found it at We Love Macs and at dv warehouse. I paid $248 for the 7600 card. BE CAREFUL buying a "refurbished" card. At We Love Macs, "refurbished" means "pulled from a working machine." Could be a machine with as much mileage as yours and prone to the same failures as yours.
The card is an MXM style card (generally used in laptops), with a giant heat sink and heat pipe assembly. The card can be separated from the heat assembly. If I had time, I would have tried a generic, cheaper, MXM style card.
Dispelling some myths.
People here and elsewhere have said that no Intel iMac graphics card can be replaced, that they're wedded to the logic board. The one on this model can be replaced, I've done it. Also, some have said you can't put a 256MB, 7600 GT in a machine that originally had a 128MB, 7300 GT. Also, not true. That's what I did to my machine and it is working fine.
So here's the step-by-step on my take apart and replacement. This is just one user helping out others, PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK. This takes about 1 1/2 hours to take apart and 2 to put back together.
1) Install the iStat widget and monitor the temperatures for a few days and record the temperatures (to be able to verify that you've completed the repair correctly later)
2) Make a complete backup of any internal drives and make sure the backup will be bootable (use Carbon Copy Cloner)
3) Use static safeguards, like an anti-static wrist strap.
4) Get a pen a stack of paper envelopes to separate and label the pieces you remove.
5) You'll need a #2 Phillips and #6, 8, 10 Torx. Most of the screws at T-8. There are 8 T-8s holding in the LCD. They are about 1 1/4" down. You'll need a long, skinny T-8 to get to them.
6) Unplug the machine and place it on it's back on a large white sheet of paper.
7) Remove RAM door, #2 Phillips x 2.
8) Remove RAM.
9) Remove 4 T-8s along bottom.
10) Remove large rectangular plastic bezel surrounding the whole machine, tilt up being careful not to stress iSight cables. You'll need to stretch it around the RAM ejection tabs.
11) Detach two iSight cables.
12) Peel up black stickers at lower corners of speakers.
13) Remove LCD screws, T-8 x 8. You'll probably drop a few, they're pretty easy to retrieve.
14) Remove two retaining screws on right hand LCD cable. T-6 x2 Unplug cable.
15) Remove LCD inverter cable, left.
Start unplugging everything connected to the logic board.
16) Unplug cable coming from right speaker. Note cable routing, it is the only one that's a little tricky. Also, note that the left one plugs in on the right and the right one plugs in on the left.
17) Remove right speaker. T-10 Note: left and right speaker screws are different lengths.
18) Unplug ODD blower cable.
19) Unplug ODD temp cable and lift up tape.
20) Unplug HDD blower cable.
21) Unplug the HDD temp cable.
22) Unplug the camera & mic cable.
23) Unscrew the clamp securing the airport card (has two antenna cables going to it, labeled PCIE), T-6 x 2
24) Unplug SATA cable.
25) Unplug Power cable, thick black plastic harness, socket.
26) Unplug ambient temp cable.
27) Unscrew the bluetooth card, T-6 x2.
28) Unplug CPU blower cable.
29) Unplug power button cable, 2 conductor, tiny cable, bottom left.
30) Unscrew left speaker, T-10, unplug from logic board, but just leave dangling, no need to remove cable completely.
31) Remove logic board screws. Be careful to segregate them, they have different lengths and different thread pitches and thread types. Some are machine threads going into metal, some are coarse threads going into plastic.
31a) Heat sink frame to case T-8 x 2
31b) Logic board to case T-8 x 3
31c) Screws at heat sink from arrows T-8 x 3
31d) Logic board at bottom near RAM slot T-8 x 2
32) Unplug ODD ribbon cable, be extremely careful. Release plastic tabs on each side to remove. Be sure it is fully and evenly seated when you put it back later.
33) Remove logic board with attached graphics card.
34) Unplug graphics card heat sink sensor cable at logic board end.
35) Remove graphics card screws 2 x T-6
36) Remove single screw from small L-bracket on heat sink 1 x T-6
Replace graphics card.
Reverse steps, put everything back together. Be careful not to pinch any cables when you put the logic board back in. When you put the LCD back in, if you can't get the screws to stick to the driver, use some glue stick from your kid's art supplies.
Test everything. You've disconnected every cable in the system.
I torture tested the machine with a space heater on it, 5 different videos of different formats playing at the same time. No problems.
I took a lot of pictures inside the machine. As soon as I figure out a good place to post them, I'll try to add a link here.
Good luck

Greetings!
I know this is in response to your post from over 2 years ago, but I was searching on Apple's site for the max RAM I can upgrade our refurbed iMac too and it brought up this post.
Oddly enough, I've been experiencing the same screen issues and locking up on our iMac as well. I was concerned it was a bad memory module, but now I'm thinking it's the same issue you found.
Because I bought this some 2+ years ago refurbed from Apple, I'm not surprised that could be the actual problem.
I've pulled this thing apart once to replace the hard-drive which crashed about a year ago, so I'm not totally new at opening it up, but this process you mention sounds pretty intense...just wanted to get your second take on it based on what I've done thus far.
Thanks again for posting this...it was an eye-opener as to what might actually be causing our issues with our trusted Mac!
Joshua

Upgrade MacBook Pro4,1 2.5 GH2 Intel Core 2 Duo

As a novice, I am trying to find out if I can upgrade my memory and gain speed. I have a 2.5 GH2 Intel Core 2 Duo processor and memory of 2GB 667MHz /ddr2/Sdram
Any suggestions?

The MBP 4,1 can use up to 6GB of RAM (one 4GB & one 2GB module), although Apple only supports 4GB (two 2GB modules). Your computer's performance will improve somewhat if you actually need more RAM for your work than you have now. If the 2GB you have now are sufficient for your needs, adding more won't speed anything up. If you're going to upgrade to Lion, you'll almost certainly want more.

Poor WiFI antenna in my MBP Intel Core 2 Duo

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