You may have to Reset Reset NVRAM or PRAM on Mac, if your MacBook, Mac Mini or iMac is going through problems, running slow or crashing randomly.
What is NVRAM and PRAM
NVRAM (Non-volatile Random-Access Memory) can be described as a small storage location on your computer, designed to store quick settings like Volume level, Time Zone, Screen Resolution and recent kernel panic information containing details of when your computer crashed and others such details.
PRAM which stands for Parameter Random-Access Memory pretty much performs the same functions as NVRAM. PRAM was used in the older versions of Mac, NVRAM is being used in newer versions of Mac.
Both NVRAM and PRAM can store settings, even after your MacBook is powered off, whereas RAM forgets everything as soon the computer powers off.
This allows Mac to accesses information within the NVRAM or PRAM as soon as it starts up, which helps it to load all your preferred settings.
Why Reset NVRAM or PRAM on Mac
It is rare for NVRAM to become corrupted on a Mac. However the following issues are usually related to a corrupted NVRAM and can be fixed by a NVRAM Reset.
- You have problems controlling the volume on Mac
- Volume keeps resetting on Mac
- Mac starts up with a question mark
- Mac shows incorrect Date or Time Zone
- The screen resolution on Mac keeps changing
If you have an older Mac using PRAM, the issues listed above plus the following issues are usually related to a corrupted PRAM.
- Mac is not charging properly
- Mac showing incorrect battery percentage
- Drives not appearing on Mac
- Problems with Bluetooth or AirPort Mode
- Problems with Mouse and other External Devices
- Hardware related problems in General
If you are experiencing any of the issues as mentioned above, chances are that the data stored in the NVRAM or PRAM has become corrupted.
Luckily, it is easy to Reset NVRAM and PRAM on Mac, which basically makes the NVRAM/PRAM settings go back to Factory Default Settings, which often helps in fixing problems.
How to Reset NVRAM or PRAM on Mac
Follow the steps below to Reset NVRAM or PRAM on your Mac.
1. Disconnect All the External Drives from your Mac (except External Keyboard, in case you are using it)
2. Use the Volume up key to increase the volume, so that you can hear the start-up sound on your Mac.
3. Click on the Apple Icon in top-menu bar and click on Shut Down option in the drop-down menu.
4. Wait for your computer to completely shut down.
5. Press the power button to start your Mac and immediately Press & Hold Command + Option + P + R keys on the keyboard of your Mac.
6. Keep holding down the 4 Keys as you hear the first start-up sound and Release All the Keys after you hear the second start-up sound on your Mac.
This will Reset NVRAM or PRAM on your Mac and this should hopefully fix the problems on your Mac.
Note: If you have followed steps above and it has resulted in Mac showing a Grey screen for several minutes, it is mostly likely due to connected devices interfering with NVRAM or PRAM Reset process.
To fix this issue, disconnect all the Devices connected to your MacBook (except Mouse & External keyboard) and follow the steps to Reset NVRAM or PRAM on your Mac.