How To: SMC Reset

OK... I'm off to a slow start. I intended to start this much sooner and here we are on version 10.6.2 already. Here's a tip I needed to use myself this past week and I think it's a great task to perform when you have encountered a problem that causes unusual and/or erratic system behavior. Sometimes, resetting the SMC is the only way to resolve what's ailing your Mac. There are a few different ways to accomplish this basic task and it very much depends on the type of Mac you're using.

For MacBooks with removable batteries:

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Disconnect the MagSafe power adapter from the computer, if it's connected.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds.
5. Release the power button.
6. Reconnect the battery and MagSafe power adapter.
7. Press the power button to turn on the computer.

For MacBooks with non-removable batteries:

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Plug in the MagSafe power adapter to a power source, connecting it to the Mac if its not already connected.
3. On the built-in keyboard, press the (left side) Shift-Control-Option keys and the power button at the same time.
4. Hold for 3 seconds and release all the keys and the power button at the same time.
5. Press the power button to turn on the computer.

For Mac Pro, Intel-based iMacs, Mac Minis, and Xserve

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Unplug the computer's power cord.
3. Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds.
4. Release the power button.
5. Attach the computers power cable.
6. Press the power button to turn on the computer.