The System Management Controller is a crucial software component of your Mac. It controls various important hardware parts of your device. And, that includes the lights, cooling fan, and power supply among other things. Like most other components, the SMC might encounter problems under various circumstances. So, you should know some effective solutions to SMC-related issues.
Mac users can usually fix their SMC-related problems all by themselves. You need not rush to the nearest service center right away. Instead, you must try out the solutions mentioned below to fix SMC related issues in MacBook Pro & Air.
What are SMC-Related Issues on Your Mac?
You might encounter a wide range of issues related to your Mac’s SMC. So, SMC-related issues come in several different forms. Resetting the SMC is the most effective way to fix them. But, you might not want to take that step right away.
Here are SMC-related issues on Mac devices and some possible solutions for them:
Fast and Loud Cooling Fans
Your laptop’s cooling fans would work harder when the device is performing heavy tasks. So, it is not unusual for you to be faster and louder in such situations. However, you should not find them working that way all the time. If you do, then it might be an SMC-related problem.
Close as many programs on your device as possible, especially the ones consuming more resources. Then, check whether the fans are working fast and loud. If they are, then resetting the SMC might be the only option left.
Unable to Connect to WiFi
WiFi connection issues have a wide range of causes. And, that includes an error in the router or the connection. So, you might get a solution by restarting your router or reconnecting to its network. If that does not work, you can also try updating your network drivers. Also, ensure you are using the right password for the network.
Are there too many devices connected to the WiFi network? Removing some of them might fix the WiFi connection issues on your MacBook. You probably need to reset the SMC for a solution if all other methods fail.
Frequent Overheating
Does your MacBook Pro or Air heat up too often? You must consider closing some heavy tasks that you might be running on. Alternatively, you can simply close as many programs as possible. If the device remains hot, it might have viruses and malware. So, install a good antivirus app and run a scan with it.
The overheating you are experiencing might also indicate a heat source near your Mac. In that case, you must place the device away from heat sources and direct sunlight. If this does not help your device remain cool, you might have to reset the SMC. However, before doing that, you must look for more signs of SMC-related issues.
Slow Performance
Your MacBook might slow down when the startup disk has insufficient space. So, you should find out whether that is the case. If it is not, you must close some programs to reduce the workload on the processor. Reducing the number of files on your desktop might also fix slow performance effectively. Deleting some apps and files, you do not need can also speed up your MacBook.
Does your device remain slow even after trying all the aforementioned solutions? There is at least one more fix left to try– resetting the SMC. So, you must consider doing that next.
Malfunctioning Lights
SMC also controls the lights, among other hardware components. So, any issues with the lights might also have something to do with the SMC. This applies to the indicator lights as well as the backlight if your device has one.
Do you find any of them malfunctioning? You can try out various solutions for that, including restraining your MacBook.
If nothing else fixes the malfunctioning lights, you might need professional assistance. However, resetting the SMC can usually offer you a quicker solution.
How to Reset SMC on Your MacBook Pro and Air?
Have you failed to get a solution? Then, resetting the SMC might work unless the affected hardware component is damaged. The procedure for resetting the SMC depends on the MacBook model you are running. In the case of MacBook Pro and Air, the steps are the same.
Restart the Laptop and Check on the Issue
You must restart your laptop first if you have not tried that yet. After all, it might fix the hardware issues you have been facing. In this case, you need to turn off your MacBook for a minute. Then, turn it back on with the usual method to check on the problem. If this step is ineffective, you must proceed to reset the SMC.
Reset the SMC
You cannot make any changes to the SMC unless resetting it to default. And, resetting it can help you fix many hardware problems. Turn off your MacBook Air or Pro first if you want to reset the SMC. Press and hold down the left Control, left Option, and right Shift keys. After holding them down, you must also hold down the Power button.
Hold down the four keys until your MacBook turns on. Then, release them and wait for at least 30 seconds before performing a restart. Check whether any hardware issues persist once you are done. If any of them remain, you might need to approach a service center for a solution.
Get Regular Servicing For Your MacBook
Hardware issues are not uncommon for MacBook models, and you must deal with such problems as soon as possible. Now, that will help you to reduce any repairing costs or avoid the need for replacement parts. Getting your MacBook serviced regularly can help you a lot with that. So, you must reach out to the nearest servicing center once in a while.
