Apple Updates MacBook Pro Computers’ SMC Firmware

Apple is addressing a problem with MacBook Pro computers by means of a firmware update tasked with fixing an issue where the computer would shut off out of the blue because of heavy processor load.

A technical note on Apple’s web site says “This update resolves an issue where a MacBook Pro being used with a power adapter may unexpectedly shut down under heavy workload if the battery charge level is near empty.”

The Mac maker advises MacBook Pro owners to have the computer’s power cord connected or, at the very least, ensure the battery is 25% charged, when performing the SMC Firmware Update.

SMC Firmware Updates refer to the System Management Controller (SMC) firmware update for Intel-based computers.

The SMC is a micro-controller on the logic board that controls the power functions for your computer, hence you shouldn’t risk losing power when installing such a firmware update.

After giving your MacBook Pro the green light to install, a gray screen will appear with a status bar to indicate the progress of the update, but only after it restarts.

“Your computer's fans will run at full speed during the update but will return to normal speed once the update completes,” Apple warns. “Do not disturb or shut off the power on your computer during this update,” the instructions read.

MacBook Pro SMC Firmware Update 1.5 can be downloaded from Apple's support website, or via Software Update from the Apple menu in Mac OS X.

Cupertino says the update applies to systems running Mac OS X 10.6.8 and Mac OS X  10.7.2 (the post mistakenly says OS X  110.7.2).

Supported languages include Deutsch, English, Français, Español, Italiano, Nederlands, Dansk, Norsk Bokmål, Polski, Português, Português Brasileiro, Pусский, Suomi, Svensk, Chinese, Japanese and Korean.

Download MacBook Pro SMC Firmware Update 1.5 (Free)