Mac startup chime plays but screen is blank
Your Mac is starting but the display is not waking up. This is a display connection issue or the SMC (System Management Controller) needs reset. The good news is your Mac is likely running fine.
When your Mac starts but the screen stays blank, it is a display connection issue or the SMC needs reset. The good news is your Mac is likely running fine.
Risk: Medium
⏱ 10–20 minutes
Intermediate
⚡ Before you start
- ✓Have an external monitor available if you can (to test with)
- ✓Know whether your Mac has Apple Silicon or Intel processor
- ✓Be patient — some reset processes take 10–20 seconds
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Not holding down the SMC reset key combination long enough — must be at least 10 seconds
- Not waiting long enough after releasing the keys before restarting
Signs you need professional help
- If your Mac is running but the display stays blank after SMC reset, or if an external monitor also shows nothing, give us a call — the display hardware or logic board can need service.
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