How to fix an iMac that won't turn on

Work through the simple checks that can bring a dead iMac back to life before you book a repair. You will test the power source, reseat the power cable and reset the SMC. It suits anyone with an Intel or Apple silicon iMac that shows no sign of power.

How to fix an iMac that won’t turn on#applerepair #macbook #photography #macbookpro #computerrepair, by CircuitBoredd on YouTube. 1 min 10 s.

Video length
1 min 10 s
Time to do it
10 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
8

What you need

Steps

  1. Test the wall socket first. Plug in a lamp or phone charger and switch it on. If nothing happens, the problem is the outlet or a tripped breaker, not the iMac.

  2. Unplug the iMac's power lead from the back of the machine and from the wall. Wait 30 seconds, then push both ends back in firmly.

  3. Press and hold the power button on the back for 10 seconds, release it, then press it once. Listen for fans or a startup chime.

  4. Check whether the screen stays black while the machine is actually running. Feel the back for warmth and listen closely for fan noise or a drive spinning.

  5. Reset the SMC on an Intel iMac. Unplug the power lead, wait 15 seconds, plug it back in, wait 5 seconds, then press the power button.

  6. On an Apple silicon iMac, skip the SMC reset. Just unplug the power lead for a full minute and plug it back in.

  7. Swap in a different power cable if you have one, in case the original lead is damaged.

  8. If the iMac is still dead, stop and book a service appointment with Apple or an authorised repairer. Do not open the case yourself while it is under warranty.

Tips and common mistakes

Plug the iMac straight into a wall socket, not a power strip, while you troubleshoot.

A faint image on a black screen often means the backlight has failed, not the power supply.

Unplug the machine from the wall before you inspect or reseat any cable.

Questions

How long should I wait after unplugging?

Give it at least 30 seconds so the power supply drains fully. For a full reset, leave it unplugged for a minute.

Why does my iMac not turn on but the fans spin?

The machine has power but the display or startup process is failing. Try a different socket and cable first, then book a repair.

Will a dead iMac lose my files?

A power fault usually leaves the drive untouched. Avoid repeated forced restarts and get the machine checked before doing anything else.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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