Mac Modular Desktops Troubleshooting Input/Output Issues
Troubleshooting USB-A, USB-C, Thunderbolt, and HDMI issues
Troubleshooting SD card issues
Troubleshooting USB-A, USB-C, Thunderbolt, and HDMI issues
Identify issues
USB-A device isn’t recognized or isn’t powered when connected to the computer’s USB-A ports
USB-C device isn’t recognized or isn’t powered when connected to the computer’s USB-C ports
Thunderbolt device or display isn’t recognized when connected to the computer’s USB-C ports
HDMI display isn’t recognized or doesn’t display an image when connected to the computer’s HDMI port
Try quick troubleshooting steps
Ensure that you are not exceeding the specified maximum number of supported external USB-A, USB-C, Thunderbolt, or HDMI devices or displays for this model. Refer to Identify the ports on your Mac, Connect a display to your Mac, and the following support articles for more information about connecting external displays.
Inspect all ports and enclosure openings on the computer for any signs of deformation, damage, or debris that may be blocking the connection.
Clean the computer. If you find any debris in these ports, gently clean each connector using a small, non-metallic, soft-bristled brush. Ensure that the brush is clean and dry. Gently brush out lint or debris. Use just enough bristles to fit inside the connector. Twist the bristles to loosen and lift out debris. Brush debris away from the connector to avoid brushing debris into the connector. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away the loosened debris.
Caution: Unplug all cables and turn off the computer first. Don’t use aerosol sprays, solvents, abrasives, or cleaners containing hydrogen peroxide that might damage the finish. Don’t use any metal objects to clear debris or obstructions, as this can short the connector and cause damage. Avoid getting moisture in any openings, and don’t spray liquid directly on the computer. Don’t use compressed air.
Refer to steps and support resources in Troubleshooting Quick Checks.
Run manual and diagnostic tests
If the issue wasn’t resolved by following a support article or checking for potential causes, run these diagnostic and manual tests to help isolate the cause of the issue:
Connect a compatible mouse or keyboard to each USB-A and USB-C port on the computer to verify basic USB-A and USB-C port functionality.
Ensure that the Mac recognizes the connection with both orientations of each USB-C connector by flipping it over and reconnecting it.
Connect an external Thunderbolt display to the computer to verify USB-C port Thunderbolt functionality. Verify audio output if the external display has internal speakers. Verify that the external display shows a correct image and the external display’s speakers produce clear sound.
Connect an external HDMI display to the computer to verify HDMI port functionality. Verify audio output if the external display has internal speakers. Verify that the external display shows a correct image and the external display’s speakers produce clear sound.
For computers with internal expansion, such as Mac Pro, verify compatibility and installation of all expansion cards and other accessories. Some cards and expansion modules are not compatible with some Mac Pro models. Refer to Install PCIe cards in your Mac Pro (2023) for more information.
Open and inspect the computer
If your issue wasn’t resolved or isolated by following support articles or running diagnostics tests, refer to the computer’s repair manual to open and inspect the computer. A damaged or out-of-place part may be causing one of the issues.
Note: This section requires ordering parts and tools. Replacing a part may not resolve the computer’s issue. You can find other service options at support.apple.com/repair.
Replace the part
If the issue wasn’t resolved or isolated by following the previous steps, replace the following parts one at a time in the order shown. After you replace the first part, repeat the troubleshooting steps to determine whether replacing a part resolves the issue. If it still isn’t resolved, replace the next part.
Replace the affected combination I/O board, back Thunderbolt 4 ports, or front USB-C board in Mac Studio models, depending on the issue. Replace the affected Apple Thunderbolt I/O board, top I/O board, or front I/O board in Mac Pro models, depending on the model and issue. Replace the logic board in Mac mini models.
Replace the logic board in all models.
Note: This section requires ordering parts and tools. Replacing a part may not resolve the computer’s issue. You can find other service options at support.apple.com/repair.
Troubleshooting SD card issues
Identify issues
Read this article if you notice any of the following issues:
Can’t insert SD card into slot
Can insert SD card into slot partially, but not completely
SD card slot doesn’t align with enclosure
SD card doesn’t function properly when inserted
Try quick troubleshooting steps
Verify that you are using the correct type of SD card. Refer to Use the SD and SDXC card slot on your Mac for more information about SD card compatibility and use.
Inspect the SD card slot and top case opening on the computer for any signs of deformation, damage, or debris that may be blocking the connection.
Clean the computer. If you find any debris in the SD card slot, gently clean it using a small, non-metallic, soft-bristled brush. Ensure that the brush is clean and dry. Gently brush out lint or debris. Use just enough bristles to fit inside the opening. Twist the bristles to loosen and lift out debris. Brush debris away from the opening to avoid brushing debris into the opening. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away the loosened debris.
- Caution: Unplug all cables and turn off the computer first. Don't use aerosol sprays, solvents, abrasives, or cleaners containing hydrogen peroxide that might damage the finish. Don’t use any metal objects to clear debris or obstructions, as this can short the connector and cause damage. Avoid getting moisture in any openings, and don’t spray liquid directly on the computer. Don’t use compressed air.
Refer to steps and support resources in Troubleshooting Quick Checks.
Run manual and diagnostic tests
If the issue wasn’t resolved by following a support article or checking for potential causes, run these diagnostic and manual tests to help isolate the cause of the issue:
Insert a formatted SD card into the computer to verify basic SD card slot functionality. Ensure that the card seats correctly. Remove the card and verify that the card can be removed without difficulty.
Verify that SD card reader hardware is intact and not damaged.
Open and inspect the computer
If your issue wasn’t resolved or isolated by following support articles or running diagnostics tests, refer to the computer’s repair manual to open and inspect the computer. A damaged or out-of-place part may be causing one of the issues.
Note: This section requires ordering parts and tools. Replacing a part may not resolve the computer’s issue. You can find other service options at support.apple.com/repair.
Replace the part
If the issue wasn’t resolved or isolated by following the previous steps, replace the SDXC card slot in Mac Studio models.
Note: This section requires ordering parts and tools. Replacing a part may not resolve the computer’s issue. You can find other service options at support.apple.com/repair.