Mac: screen remains black - this may be the reason
If the Mac doesn't start and the screen stays black, you don't have to despair. We'll show you what you can do to get your Mac up and running again.
Mac screen remains black: disconnect iMac from the mains
If the screen on your iMac remains black and nothing happens when you press the power button for a longer time, you can reset the System Management Controller:
- Disconnect the power cable from your iMac and wait at least 15 seconds.
- Then plug it back in and wait a few seconds before turning it on.
Resetting the NVRAM + PRAM
If your Mac's screen stays black, try solving the NVRAM and PRAM reset problem.
- You can reset NVRAM by switching off your Mac and then pressing Command + Alt + P + R simultaneously after switching on again. Keep the buttons pressed until you hear the start tone twice.
Tip with black screen: Start with system DVD
To check if it is a software error, start up your Mac using the system DVD.
- Insert your system DVD and press the C key when starting. Then select the hardware test in the menu.
- Alternatively, you can go directly to the hardware test by pressing the D key when starting.
Black Mac screen: backlight defect
Broken backlighting could be the cause of the black screen.
- You can check this by holding the display against the light. If you see any weak picture on the display, it is defective. To do this, you need to go to the AppleStore and discuss the problem or how to fix it there.
So that your data is still safe in such a case, we show you the 3 best tips for backup with the Mac Time Machine.