10.6 Snow Leopard Killed Apple Hardware Test?

I installed Mac OS 10.6 Snow Leopard and I have lost the Apple Hardware Test functionality , pressing D at startup on my Mac Pro and my Macbook, I could not find any info in the Apple Support site.

Mac pro (early 2008), Mac OS X (10.6), Black Mac Book

Posted on Aug 30, 2009 3:39 AM

Reply
26 replies

Oct 8, 2009 3:06 PM in response to Allan Eckert

You're right. I got the names mixed up. Sorry. My computer is a Mac Pro, of course.
Secondly, neither of my install DVDs have Apple Hardware Test or AHT written on them. The original disk is a replacement DVD, because when first shipping (it's a refurbished model), the installer was missing. That might be the reason why the aht is acutally missing. Which would provide an explanation, but not a solution. The question would in my case then shift to: Is there any other way to get hold of this tool or an equivalent?

Thanks again

Oct 11, 2009 9:51 AM in response to anorth

I have exactly the same problem: when booting from the HDD, before installing SL the AHT was launched and now it does not work any longer. The only means is to insert the AHT disc in the CD-drive in order to have it working (via the D key at startup with this cd in the drive).
In summary, before SL AHT could be launched from Hard Disc with the D key, now it is no more possible. The partition has been probably killed;

Is this the same issue you are experiencing? Thanks.
P.S.: Apple might have done something for this and I would have liked a note informing people or maybe it would be better if they tried to avoid this occurrence.

Nov 2, 2009 3:24 AM in response to myhighway

Is the problem for some people here, the fact that when you boot up your computer, you do NOT have instant connection with your wireless keyboard, so pressing D is like pressing your desk!

I certainly struggled to get to the hardware test. Eventually, the combination of my original install disk and a wired keyboard and mouse got me there.

Good hunting.

Jan 3, 2010 10:20 PM in response to Three Palms

+So if I upgraded to 10.6 from 10.5, and my DVD does not list AHT can I run the test?+

There is no AHT on a retail Snow Leopard DVD. The AHT that is appropriate for your Mac is located (and marked) on one of your system's original grey-labeled Install DVDs.

When doing Disk Repairs to the Snow Leopard system, remember to NOT use the old version of Disk Utility that's located on that original Leopard system DVD, but instead use the Snow Leopard version of Disk Utility that's on the retail SL DVD.

+I have an aftermarket, wired, keyboard, does that make difference?+

Only if the AHT will not boot when you press the d key. You will find out by trying it, and there is no risk of causing potential damage from trying, whether it works or not.

Message was edited by: myhighway

Jan 21, 2010 6:28 AM in response to sydneyfx

The Apple Hardware Test *_IS INCLUDED_* on the retail copy of Snow Leopard...

To eliminate ambiguity, make sure you are holding the 'd' key before switching on your Mac, then switch it on. If this still doesn't work, do you use a Firmware Password? If so, this will prevent you from booting into 'd' or 'c'. The only key that will work on startup is the option key or 'alt'.

So, boot from your Snow Leopard Retail Disc or the one that came with your computer. Disable the Firmware Password temporarily. Quit the Mac OS X Installer. Hold 'd' before the computer starts up and you should find this will work. If not, phone AppleCare or post back here.

Hope this helps!

Jan 21, 2010 11:50 AM in response to phakebrill

The Apple Hardware Test IS INCLUDED on the retail copy of Snow Leopard...

Despite your shout, you're wrong. It is not on the SL install disk, since AHT is computer-specific. It can be found on the original discs that shipped with each machine and, for relatively new ones, also preinstalled on the internal HD, as described by Mr. Rayfield.

Mar 17, 2010 3:44 AM in response to anorth

There are four possible reasons:
1. you need to use the right DVD. There should be AHT printed on it.
2. you need the original DVD (no copy) tu run AHT.
3. Firmware password needs to be turned off because it prevents you from starting from another disk.
4. you do not properly press "d" (eg. remote keyboard, key not working etc.

AHT ships with Snow Leopard (its just running in front of me)

seb

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