My MacBook Freezes When I Open the Lid

Changing your Energy Saver settings could prevent your MacBook from freezing.

If you're not using your MacBook but want to leave it switched on for quick access, sleep mode can help preserve the laptop's battery without shutting the machine down. Therefore, it can be frustrating if you open the lid to use your Mac and find it has frozen. This can happen if your MacBook wakes up during sleep and overheats, or if the graphics firmware encounters a problem during the wake up sequence.

Instructions

1. Close all programs and disconnect any external devices before closing the lid. External devices and running software can sometimes cause a MacBook to wake while the lid is closed and it is supposed to be in sleep mode. Also avoid connecting or disconnecting external devices or the power supply after you have closed the lid, as this can also cause the MacBook to wake while the lid is closed.

2. Check for software updates. If the issue is caused by a bug in the operating system or in software you have installed on your MacBook, the latest version of the software could contain a fix to solve the problem. Once your software is up-to-date, remember to check for new update releases regularly.

3. Turn off AirPort hardware before closing the lid, and disconnect any Ethernet cables. You can power down AirPort hardware installed in your computer using the AirPort menu or by selecting the Internet menu under Applications and Utilities.

4. Change your Energy Saver settings under System Preferences. In the Energy Saver window, select Show Details and Options, and then uncheck every box on the screen. This will turn off all the special automatic sleep options.

5. Run the Apple Hardware Diagnostic CD to check whether you have a faulty RAM module. Insert the disc, then restart your computer while holding down the "C" key on PowerPC-based Macs, or the "D" key on Intel-based Macs. If the diagnostics check indicates you have a problem with a RAM module, take you computer to an Apple dealer for professional advice.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not attempt to change any hardware parts or open your Mac up without professional advice as this could void your warranty.

References

• CNET: Tutorial: Preventing Portable Mac sleep problems
• My Service: MacBook Pro (2010) Freezes After Waking From Sleep