What is NVRAM, PRAM? When to reset and the best way to reset it on a MacBook?

NVRAM, PRAM are very necessary storage memories on Macbook. So what is NVRAM, PRAM? When to reset and how to reset on the most standard MacBook. The following article will guide you.

What is NVRAM, PRAM? What’s the use on the MacBook?

1. Concepts

NVRAM stands for non-volatile ram (capable of storing data during power outages), a type of memory that stores data on certain Mac settings even when the power is turned on or off. off and access them quickly.

Today, a good example of NVRAM is flash memory (EEPROM) commonly used in Jump drives. NVRAM is not only found on your computer, but is also found in a number of other devices such as printers, cars, smart cards, and other devices that require a mnemonic setup.

Like NVRAM, PRAM (Parameter RAM) also stores the same information and the steps to reset NVRAM and PRAM are exactly the same.

2. Uses

According to Apple, NVRAM stores machine settings such as audio settings, screen resolution, time zone information, and more. Importantly, NVRAM is where the hard drive boots from .

NVRAM also supports storing all the useful information your system must have before it boots. But in some cases a faulty NVRAM can cause errors on the Mac or even prevent the Mac from booting.

3. Classification

Today, there are different types of NVRAM available for all computers. RTC/NVRAM on a computer motherboard is a battery-powered NVRAM that uses a CMOS battery to charge and store system settings such as date and time.

Another good example of NVRAM in a computer is EEPROM , which is used for BIOS (the first program that is run when the computer starts) in many computers. Even your hard drive and other storage devices are considered NVRAM memory.

FeRAM, or F-RAM and Magneto resistive RAM or MRAM are also types of NVRAM used for different applications.

4. Pros and cons

Advantage

• NVRAM has no moving parts and this makes it faster than volatile memory during both reading and writing of data.
• With fewer moving parts, NVRAM consumes less power.

Defect

• NVRAM uses batteries, so when the battery runs out, you need to replace the battery.
• Information written to flash memory by NVRAM may be destroyed and eventually become inoperable.

When to reset NVRAM, PRAM?

If you’re having issues with audio settings, screen resolution, time zone information, or other settings , resetting the NVRAM can help.

If you’re having trouble booting up your Mac, during startup you see a question mark appear for a short time or your Mac keeps booting from the wrong hard drive , then you can “clean up”. “NVRAM to fix errors.

Instructions on how to reset NVRAM, PRAM

Step 1 : Turn off your Macbook, then turn it on and immediately press and hold the four keys Option, Command, P and R simultaneously.

You can release the keys after about 20 seconds , after which your Mac will restart.

• On a Mac that plays the startup sound, you can release the key after the second startup sound.
• On Mac computers with the Apple T2 Security Chip, you can release the keys after the Apple logo appears and disappears a second time.

Step 2 : When your Mac finishes booting, you need to open System Preferences and adjust any settings that have just been reset, such as volume, screen resolution, boot disk selection, or time zone .

Above is the article introducing NVRAM, what is PRAM? When to reset and how to reset on the most standard MacBook. Hope this article provides you with useful information!