Apple uses optimized components on its Mac computers to boost its performance. Most Mac systems run smoothly with a low chance of encountering any problem. However, constant use of the computer leads to tiring out of the system.
You can experience out-of-nowhere shutdown, crashing, and slower performance. Thus, affecting how you work and the output you produce. Run a mac stress test to find any problems with your system.
It allows you to fix errors, improve performance, and prevent further damage. Are you having Mac troubles? Continue reading to find out the different methods to test your systems.
1. Perform Apple Diagnostic
Hardware refers to the components and peripherals used in your computer. The components process data, store information and connect other devices. It allows the software to perform its tasks.
If this happens, perform Mac systems check. It prevents future system failures and losses from occurring. You can use apple hardware diagnostics to examine your computer.
This tool allows you to identify problems in your hardware, causing system failure.
Ensure to shut down your Mac before performing the diagnostics. Detach external devices connected to your computer, excluding mouse, keyboard, and network cable. Then, identify the processor you use: intel processor or apple silicon.
For intel users, turn on your Mac and press the key D right away. Hold it as your computer starts up. Then, release your hold when a progress bar shows on the screen or when it asks to choose a language.
If you have an Apple Silicon, turn on your Mac and hold the power button as it starts up. You can release the key when the startup options show. Then, hit command and key D at the same time.
The Apple diagnostics will start straight away, displaying a progress bar. The Mac system diagnostics can last up to 3 minutes. Your screen displays either a “no issues found” notice or list of problems and reference codes.
2. Stress Test on CPU
The central processing unit accepts instructions to operate the system and applications. Failing CPU can affect your work, leading to poor performance. It can freeze the screen, lose data, and disable startup.
Executing a Mac stress test allows you to determine the limit of your computer. It reviews the performance of your system.
The “Yes” command is the most used CPU stress test on Mac. It aims to examine the cooling system, testing if it can prevent the CPU from overheating. The method gives a command to the CPU that invokes an affirmative and repetitive “Yes.”
Use the terminal app on your Mac to perform the command. Locate and hit the launchpad on the dock. Then, input “terminal” in the search field and select the app.
Type in “yes > /dev/null &” and hit enter to begin the stress test. Apply the method depending on the number of cores your computer contains. For example, if you have eight cores, you need to input the command eight times.
You may also opt to use your Activity Monitor instead. Running a MacOS performance monitor allows you to observe the state of your system. It covers your CPU, disk, and network.
Proceed to the Applications folder on your Mac computer to locate the app. Click on the Utilities file and double-click on Activity Monitor. The program presents the unresponsive apps, energy used, and status of your CPU.
3. Mac Memory Testing
The RAM refers to data storage keeping short-term memory. It covers apps and active tasks you run. The RAM allows fast and efficient access to many programs at once.
The computer slows down when your RAM runs out of space. Thus, determining available memory is necessary for a health check. There are different methods you can use to check memory.
You can run the apple diagnostics or open the activity monitor to check memory usage.
Click on the “Memory” tab when you choose the activity monitor. You can find the selection at the top of the window. Then, you’ll find a graph and statistics at the bottom.
It shows the amount of memory consumed. You need to reduce files or programs when it nears the “Physical Memory.” It indicates it’s running low on space.
Ensure to quit on your applications rather than closing them, too. Clicking the “x” at the top right corner only exits the active window. Thus, the applications continue to consume memory.
Locate the running app from the dock. Then, perform a right-click and choose “quit” to end.
4. Check Disks
A hard drive is another data storage that keeps both permanent and temporary data. Thus, it consumes more memory than the RAM. Your computer can crash, freeze, or slow down when the hard drive gets full.
Use the Disk Utility app on your Mac to manage your storage devices. Go to the launchpad on your mac dock. Then, search for disk utility for easy access.
Click on the “View” menu and select “Show All Devices.” The left column of the utility presents all storage devices you have. Select the down arrow on the device to expand the listing.
Select the last volume on your storage. Then, choose the “First Aid” option and hit “run.” It begins to check the system for any errors and fix it.
Repeat the process on every volume and every container until you reach the disk. The method starts from the bottom going to the top. You can restart your Mac after performing the procedure.
5. Clean the Cooling System
An overheating system can decrease the performance rate of your Mac. This is a way for your computer to protect the processor from damages. However, too much of this will damage your device over time.
You can run the apple diagnostics to determine if your fan works well. Find codes that begin with “PPF,” these are issues found on your fan.
Dust, hair, and other particles can clog the air vents of your Mac. With this, you can open or check the vents to see if the dust has accumulated. Clean it using soft materials to prevent any damage.
Performing Mac Stress Test
A Mac stress test makes your system perform at its full capacity. It determines its stability and status. Stress tests discover the weakness and damages in your system, preventing future problems.
Run some tests on your Mac to prevent damages. You can visit our website for more helpful articles!
