This article describes some trouble-shooting techniques you can use when your Apple MessagePad will not power on.

When your Apple MessagePad will not power on, first check your batteries. Make sure you have good batteries. Usually you see power related issues after putting in fresh (new) batteries or removing a PC-card.

Here are some steps you can try to get the Apple MessagePad to power on. Start with step one and continue following the steps until your Apple MessagePad powers on.

Important Note: The earlier Apple MessagePad devices (the Original MessagePad, MessagePad 100, MessagePad 110) have all data stored internally in SRAM (static-RAM). SRAM requires power to retain information stored in it. Before you remove the batteries on earlier MessagePad devices, perform a backup.

The MessagePad 120 has user data stored in "Flash RAM", which retains information even if power is removed. When you remove the batteries from a MessagePad 120, system information, such as data and time settings, which is still stored in SRAM, is lost. Information you entered into Notes, Dates, or Names is not lost, only system information stored in SRAM.

Step 1

Reset the Apple MessagePad.

Step 2

Plug the Apple MessagePad into AC power if you have the Newton Power Adaptor. Then perform Step 1 again.

Step 3

Remove the batteries and reset the Apple MessagePad with AC power only.

Step 4

Remove all power, including the backup battery, for at least 15 minutes. Then replace the batteries and repeat step one through three.

If after following these steps, your Apple MessagePad still does not power on, you need to have your unit serviced.

Always try resetting the Apple MessagePad first. Newton PDA devices when powered down, remain in a sleep mode. Resetting the Apple MessagePad, is equivalent to restarting a Macintosh computer.

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