Hardware Diagnostics

Testing procedures and tools that verify the proper functioning of device hardware components including memory, storage, processors, and sensors.

What to Know

Hardware Diagnostics provide definitive test results that determine whether device issues are caused by failing components like RAM, storage, sensors, or logic boards. This distinction is critical for warranty claims, avoiding unnecessary software troubleshooting when hardware replacement is required, and providing evidence for procurement to justify device upgrades. The diagnostic reference codes generated are recognized by Apple Support and required for many AppleCare service authorizations.

Common Scenarios

Enterprise IT: IT departments run hardware diagnostics on devices exhibiting crashes, graphical glitches, or overheating before attempting software fixes. This ensures resources aren’t wasted troubleshooting software when a hardware defect is the root cause, and provides documentation for warranty replacement requests.

MSP: MSPs use hardware diagnostics to quickly triage client device issues and determine whether to bill for software troubleshooting or refer the device for warranty service. The diagnostic codes provide clients with concrete evidence supporting hardware replacement recommendations.

Education: School IT runs hardware diagnostics on student and staff devices before submitting AppleCare claims, ensuring devices genuinely have hardware faults and obtaining reference codes required for service authorization. This reduces rejected claims and tracks hardware failure trends across the fleet.

In Addigy

While hardware diagnostics run independently of MDM, Addigy tracks device hardware serial numbers and warranty status, helping admins correlate diagnostic results with AppleCare eligibility. Addigy’s remote desktop and script deployment features can also guide users through the diagnostic process remotely.