3

I am currently experiencing an undocumented problem for my 15 inch Macbook Pro (Early 2011 Version), and was hoping to get some help diagnosing what the issue might be.

The problem is that whenever I am doing anything that is computationally expensive (i.e. streaming video or using parallel processing in MATLAB), my screen goes haywire and shows up noisy green lines on anything that is supposed to black. Similarly I get noisy light blue lines on anything that is supposed to be white. The problem is hard to describe, so here is a picture of my screen when this happens:

enter image description here

Changing the color profile does not change anything. Taking a screenshot does not change anything. Also, the issue seems to pop up regardless of whether or not I have the onboard graphics card enabled.I am fairly certain that is a hardware issue, but I would appreciate any input in regards to finding out what it may be. I have an appointment coming up at the local Mac store, but I'm almost dreading going in since I do not want to have to send the computer in for repair.

UPDATE: After running the tests you suggested, I was able to nail down the issue to the GFX card instead of the screen. In order to be sure, I downloaded the gfxCardStatus app from Macupdate and ran a quick experiment to see what happened when I I switch from the ATI Graphics Card to the Integrated Intel Graphics Card. As it turns out, the weird behavior only occurs when the ATI Graphics Card were in use, and switching to the Intel Graphics Card resolved the issue. I'm still headed to the Apple Store tomorrow, but I think this will help expedite the repair process :)

Improve this question

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
3

This is almost certainly a hardware problem. To determine whether it's the screen or the graphics card/motherboard you can plug in an external monitor. If you get the same problem on the external monitor then it's likely a fault with the graphics card/motherboard, if you don't get the same issue on the external screen then there's a problem with your MacBook's display.

Since it's an early 2011 model it should still be in warranty. I'd bring it to an Apple store and have it checked out for repair or replacement. On the plus side, you may get a brand new MacBook out of it.

Improve this answer
4
  • Thanks for this. On an unrelated note, do you have any idea or experience with the repair process? I'm trying to get an idea of whether they would try to 'send it in for repair' or pass me a new / refurbished version on the spot?
    – Berk Ustun
    Commented Oct 26, 2011 at 22:07
  • I don't have any experience personally of this type of repair, however I imagine it could be done in a couple of hours so they might ask you to come back later that day if it's repairable.
    – conorgriffin
    Commented Oct 26, 2011 at 22:11
  • 1
    The GPU is part of the logic board, so it would get repaired unless you were within your return period. There it would likely be your choice. A good tech can swap that part in 30 minutes or less. The decision to send it in or repair it would have to do with part availability and workload for the repair shop. You get to ask all those questions when you get a quote. It could also be software or RAM so don't feel you need a repair until you get a professional diagnosis.
    – bmike ♦
    Commented Oct 26, 2011 at 22:42
  • Yeap it's definitely the GPU (see above). Thanks for the advice!
    – Berk Ustun
    Commented Oct 27, 2011 at 16:38
1

It'a an old thread, but right now Apple have repair program for Macbooks 2011-2013 which have video card problems. Details can be found here.

Apple has determined that a small percentage of MacBook Pro systems may exhibit distorted video, no video, or unexpected system restarts. These MacBook Pro systems were sold between February 2011 and December 2013.

Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider will repair affected MacBook Pro systems, free of charge.

Improve this answer
1
  • 1
    That program expired and users of this hardware need 3rd party replacements for the GPU or logic board or a reversible software procedure to keep them around a bit longer: apple.stackexchange.com/a/295805/251859
    – LаngLаngС
    Commented Oct 16, 2017 at 16:58

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .