How To Reset a Mac's PRAM and SMC

Although Macs are known as stable and reliable computer systems, they can still experience hiccups from time to time. Users can encounter various issues such as the machine entering the sleep mode on its own, keyboard inputs not registering properly, WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity issues, or even the battery not charging fully. All these and many more problems can potentially be resolved by performing a reset of your Mac's PRAM/NVRAM or SMC. 

While these terms may seem rather incomprehensible, they can be explained in a rather straightforward way. PRAM stands for Parameter Random Access Memory and is used to store essential system information such as display settings, sound volume, time zones, etc. Information stored in PRAM is not lost on system restart. NVRAM can be viewed as an upgrade to PRAM as most modern Macs use it instead. NVRAM stands for Non-volatile RAM and serves the same functions while being more resistant to failures and corruption. SMC, on the other hand, is the System Management Controller responsible for vital physical functions on Intel-based Mac computers. It is associated with the proper functioning of the system's cooling fans, lights, power, and overall system performance.

PRAM/NVRAM Reset

To perform a PRAM or NVRAM reset, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the Mac.
2. Press the power button and hit and hold Command+Option+P+R on your keyboard immediately.
3. Keep pressing the keys until you hear the startup sound of the system.
4. Release the keys and wait for the Mac to boot normally.

Keep in mind that after the reset you may need to readjust certain settings such as time and date, time zone, sound volume, etc.

SMC Reset

The exact method for performing an SMC reset varies between desktop Macs, those with removable batteries, and those with non-removable batteries. 

SMC reset on MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air with removable battery:

1. Turn off the Mac and remove the battery
2. Press the power button and hold it for a couple of seconds.
3. Insert the battery back.
4. Press the power button again and let the Mac boot as normal

Mac with non-removable battery:

1. Shut down the system.
2. Press the Power button alongside Shift+Control+Option on your keyboard simultaneously.
3. Hold all four buttons pressed for at least 10 seconds.
4. Release everything and press the power button to boot the Mac normally.

Performing an SMC reset on iMac, Mac Pro and Mac Mini:

1. Shut down the Mac.
2. Unplug the power cord.
3. Wait for at least 15 seconds.
4. Plug the cord back in.
5. Wait a couple more seconds and then turn on the system by pressing the power button.

Hopefully, either the PRAM/NVRAM or the SMC reset has managed to fix the issue you are experiencing with your Mac system.