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Released on July 21, 2011. Core i5 or Core i7 Processor. Thunderbolt. This unit is also used to run the Mac mini Server configuration.

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Fan speed out of control

I’m unable to find a solution to fix the speed issue, even though it seems quite a common problem.

The fan is running at over 6500 RPM (more than max), and Macs Fan Control and TG Pro cannot slow it down.

Neither program reports any sensors running above normal, they are all below, and because the fan is so fast, the mac is quite cool, but loud. I have reset the SMC, and even tried to re-touch the solder joints on the fan connector, not knowing what the previous owner did.

He had a 1TB 7200 drive in it, not original Apple, and I took it out, and installed an SSD, which did not change the fan speed. The fan runs at full blast from the moment the power button is pressed.

Any ideas anyone? Any components I can check? I’ve heard something about adding a diode, but can’t find any info on it.

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Did you run the onboard diagnostics? Restart your system and press the D key

Reference: Mac startup key combinations

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There are two different directions one could travel:

  • The fan is bad (the tach circuit shorted out within it)
  • The speed regulation logic on the logic board is damaged

I would try the easier fix, replacing the fan to see if that fixes things. Otherwise you’ll need to scare up the schematics and board views to trace out the logic if you have the skills to read them as well as the needed tools to test and replace a damaged SMT component or two. That last option is just replacing the logic board.

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Fred Leonard will be eternally grateful.
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