Apple TV Special Report: Running diagnostics

Apple Knowledge Base article #305190 describes how to run diagnostic tests on an Apple TV. To do so, simply hold down the Menu and Down (-) keys on the remote for about 6 seconds. This causes Apple TV to restart in a special mode.

Eventually, you will get to a screen with three options: Restart, Run Diagnostics, and Factory Restore.

The middle option is the key one here. If you run it, it will hopefully say that "Your Apple TV is working correctly." Otherwise, you will get an error message -- at which point Apple says to take it in for servicing.

Index:

• Available storage space
• Connecting the Apple TV through a Firewall
• Does not appear in/disappears from devices list in iTunes
• HDMI connection does not work -- fixes
• Hot to the touch -- reducing surface temperature
• Incorrect time setting
• Interference with wireless phones
• Internet connection fails
• iPhoto synchronization fails
• Knowledge Base documents (from Apple)
• Performing a factory restore
• Purchased media (iTunes Store movies, songs) not playing -- fixes
• Resolution difficulty
• Running diagnostics
• Slow transfer: Use Ethernet for synchronization
• Translating video so it plays on the Apple TV

Resources