ggass

Q: I can't get my serial number as my MacBook will not start so apple support will not let me ask

I upgraded me MacBook Pro to Yosemite.  Now it will not start.  I get the apple loge with a progress bar.  It stops and shuts down about half way across.  It will not start in safe mode either.  Any suggestions?

Posted on Oct 28, 2014 9:39 AM

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Q: I can't get my serial number as my MacBook will not start so apple support will not let me ask

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  • by K Shaffer,

    K Shaffer K Shaffer Oct 28, 2014 11:36 AM in response to ggass
    Level 6 (14,399 points)
    Desktops
    Oct 28, 2014 11:36 AM in response to ggass

    You may be able to locate identifying information including a serial number on

    the computer without starting it; but sometimes not. See this Support article:

     

    •How to identify MacBook Pro models

     

    Have you tried alternative methods via keyboard shortcuts, to access the Mac?

    You should be able to start the Mac into Recovery via these instructions:

     

    •OS X: About OS X Recovery

     

    From there, you could see about investigating the issue; perhaps attempt to

    re-install the OS X, or see if OS X Utilities could check the hard drive or test

    for other causes of the problem. Much of the issue you seem to face could be

    related to lack of proper implementation of upgrade preparation. A healthy OS

    can be upgraded more easily & work correctly; old issues mess with upgrades.

     

    You may also see if the computer could be started up in Safe Boot, where

    you'd hold the Shift key on startup, and keep holding it until there is evidence

    of some OS X or desktop activity, this could take many minutes. Maybe 5+.

     

    •OS X: What is Safe Boot, Safe Mode?

     

    There may be other things you could try & do to access the system; at some

    point, if you can boot up in Safe mode, then see About this Mac in the Apple

    Finder menu. That should be able to show the system info, and serial number.

     

    If you do not hold down the Shift key long enough, the computer will not start

    up, or enter SafeBoot mode. The Recovery sequence may allow other access.

     

    And if available, an Apple Store with Genius bar may be able to help resolve

    some kinds of issues; you may have to contact them for an appointment. Or

    see an Authorized Apple Service Provider, to have them help make it work.

     

    Good luck & happy computing!