Your computer stores information in an area of memory called parameter RAM (PRAM–pronounced "pea-ram"). Resetting PRAM replaces the information stored there with the default (original) settings.
IMPORTANT: When you reset PRAM, preferences for serial ports, video, and sound are lost. This affects the settings in some of your control panels, including the following:
•
Memory (RAM disk and other settings are lost)
•
Monitors
•
Sound
•
Keyboard
•
Mouse (or Trackpad)
•
AppleTalk (the printer port is selected)
•
Map
Make a note of the settings in these control panels before you reset PRAM.
Some third-party software programs also store information in PRAM. You may have to reconfigure video cards after resetting PRAM, and other aspects of your work may be affected.
To reset PRAM:
1
Restart your computer and immediately hold down these keys:
Make sure the Caps Lock key is not engaged.
2
Hold the keys down until you hear the startup sound a second time, then release the keys.
3
If you had special settings in any control panels, open those control panels to restore the settings you want.
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