Apple macbook pro 17 inch mid 2009 User Manual

© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
 Apple Technician Guide
Basic
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)   

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) Basics — Overview 12 2010-06-11
Overview
The MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) computer features both the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 
integrated graphics processor and a high-performance NVIDIA 9600M GT graphics processor, 
Multi-Touch trackpad, and aluminum body. Refer to more features below.
Identifying Features
The main features and service differences include:
• Aluminum unibody enclosure, machined from a single piece of aluminum
• Ultrathin 17-inch LED-backlit glossy...

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) Basics — Overview 13 2010-06-11
• Product identification label is etched on bottom case near hinge
• Logic board, MagSafe board, and some other components have a uniform black color with 
no component silkscreening.
Product Configurations
This table shows the MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) model configurations at introduction: 
FeatureStandard (MB604)Optional (Z0G5)
Intel Core 2 Duo processor2.66 GHz2.93 GHz
Memory, DDR3 1066, SO-DIMMs4 GB (2 x 2 GB);  
up to 8 GB (2...

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) Basics — Overview 14 2010-06-11
Battery Precautions
This computer contains an internal-only battery that is serviceable by Apple-authorized service 
providers only. Tamper-proof screws are employed to prevent customers from attempting to 
remove it.
WARNING: Every time you remove the bottom case, disconnect the battery cable from the 
logic board. 
WARNING: Because the battery is internal and connected to the logic board by a cable, it MUST 
BE DISCONNECTED before...

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) Basics — Serial Number Location 15 2010-06-11
Serial Number Location
Serial Number On Bottom Case
Turn over the computer to see the serial number etched on the bottom case near the hinge.  

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) Basics — Serial Number Location 16 2010-06-11
Transferring the Serial Number
When replacing a bottom case, retain the customer’s bottom case until the repair is complete. 
Before installing the replacement bottom case, use a fine tip permanent marker to write the 
original serial number clearly and legibly in uppercase box letters directly onto the inside of the 
new bottom case.
CAUTION: Take great care in deciphering the small typeface of the etched serial number 
on...

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) Basics — General Information 17 2010-06-11
General Information
Required Tools
Caution: To prevent scratches or other cosmetic damage to the computer housing, use a soft 
cloth as a protective layer when removing and installing the external screws.
The following tools are required to service the computer: 
• Clean, soft, lint-free cloth
• ESD wrist strap and mat
• Magnetic Phillips #0 screwdriver
• Magnetic Phillips #00 screwdriver (preferably with a long handle)
• Torx...

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) Basics — General Information 18 2010-06-11
The Glass Panel
Warning: The glass panel for this model is not a serviceable part. If the glass is broken or 
scratched, replace the display assembly. Attempting to remove the glass can permanently 
shatter the display face and damage other parts.
To clean the glass panel, use the Apple polishing cloth (922-8245) and iKlear Apple Polish or 
Brillianize anti-static spray cleaning solution. Alternatively, IPA (isopropyl alcohol)...

© 2009 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
 Apple Technician Guide 
Troubleshooting
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)   

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) General Troubleshooting — Update System Software 20 2010-06-11
General Troubleshooting
Update System Software
Important: Whenever possible before beginning troubleshooting, ensure the latest software 
and firmware updates have been applied.
Apple Service Diagnostics
Run Apple Service Diagnostic to determine if any of the thermal sensors are malfunctioning. 
Replace any failing sensors. See chart below for correlation between error code and part.
NameLocation
TC0D Logic...