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Frequently Asked Questions Q: My application quit unexpectedly. Why? A: There are several reasons why an application might quit suddenly. If this happens repeatedly with an application, here are some things you can try to correct the problem: •Try opening the application again. If this doesn't work, try restarting your computer. •The application you are using may not be compatible with the version of the Mac OS that you have installed. In general, make sure you have the latest versions of applications and the latest version of Mac OS X. Be sure to read the notes (for example, Read Me files) that come with application installers to be certain that they are compatible with your version of the operating system. •There may be a problem with the document you are using. Try using the application with a different document to see if the behavior continues. •You can use Disk Utility (in the Applications/Utilities folder or on your Mac OS X installation disc) to check your hard disk and correct certain problems. •Open System Preferences and click Software Update. Check to see if there is an update for Mac OS X or your application. Updates often correct issues found in previous versions. For applications not produced by Apple, you might find updates on the manufacturer's website. •There may be a problem with the application's preferences file. Locate the application's preferences file in Library/Preferences on your hard disk. Some applications have their own preferences folder, so you may need to look in Library/Preferences/[application or manufacturer's name]. The filename should have the form com.[manufacturer's name].[application name].plist or something similar. Move the preferences file to the Trash and restart the application. You will have to reset your application preferences. •If you have just installed a new version of Mac OS X and you used the Archive & Install option, the preferences files have been archived to the Previous Systems folder on your hard disk. To restore these files, move them from the Library/Preferences folder of your Previous Systems folder to your current Library/Preferences folder. If you just connected a peripheral device (for example, a printer), it may not be compatible with the version of Mac OS X that you are using. Disconnect the device and contact its manufacturer. •If you just installed a Mac OS 9 application, it may have added extensions to the System Folder that are not compatible with the Classic environment. Remove the software and contact the software's manufacturer. •If you just installed hardware, such as additional memory, it may be defective. Try running Apple Hardware Test, found on a disc that came with your computer, or take your computer to an Apple Authorized Service Provider. Back to F.A.Q.