How can I reset the PRAM if Recovery Mode keeps overriding the PRAM command?

Question

Lion uses the ⌘ + R to boot into recovery mode. Resetting the PRAM in anything less than 10.7 was ⌘ + ⌥ + P + R.

Recovery mode now seems to override the PRAM command. Does anyone know if there is a new way to reset the PRAM now that Lion is installed?

It's a matter of timing. You need to push these key immediately after turning on. If you wait too long, the bootloader is already active, which uses Cmd+R for the recovery function. — René, Aug 09 '11 at 07:18
If you have the option, try using a (different) external, wired keyboard. If the reset PRAM shortcut works, then maybe it's something with the original keyboard? — Zonker.in.Geneva, Jan 25 '17 at 15:21

score 3 · Answer 1 · answered Nov 26 '11 at 14:55

3

Nate , PRAM reset is not working because you turn on Password Firmware Protection. Turn it off and P+R+Option+Command will work.

answered Nov 26 '11 at 14:55

Adriano

31

score 2 · Accepted Answer · answered Aug 09 '11 at 03:45

2

Resetting the PRAM works the same way it always did. This is a function of the hardware - not the OS. What makes you think it doesn't work anymore? (tested on Macbook, Mac Mini).

answered Aug 09 '11 at 03:45

zzz

1,746

I tried it 4 times on my wife's MacBook and it booted into recovery mode each time. – Nate Bird Aug 09 '11 at 14:35

score 1 · Answer 3 · answered Nov 27 '11 at 04:05

1

Or she has spilt something on the keyboard and the shift key is telling the computer it's being held down, so no matter what, it will boot into recovery mode. I work for an apple specialist and see it all the time.

answered Nov 27 '11 at 04:05

Josh

11

How can I reset the PRAM if Recovery Mode keeps overriding the PRAM command?

3 Answers3

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