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iMac G3 DV/SE Startup Problem
Posted by: rushfan82 on 2016-06-21 13:36:02
I have an iMac G3 that just won't turn on no matter what, and it's been like that for close to 5 years. I recently pulled it out of my attic to see if just letting it sit for a bit would change anything, and unfortunately, nothing had changed. When you press the power button after plugging it in, the speakers will make a popping sound, and it sounds like it's trying to start up, but nothing happens. I have tried changing the PRAM battery and changing the RAM, but nothing works. Would putting the logic board/powerboard in a dishwasher help (like other old Macs)? Also on an unrelated note, last time I remember, the disc drive wasn't working, would like to get that fixed too.

Posted by: Reasons. on 2016-06-21 14:54:37
EDIT: You do not have one of the G3s with a removable processor card. Oops. I'm sorry.

One thing to check would be the connection between the processor card and logic board. As I recall, the ROM is on the card. The machine won't boot without it, so a loose card means a (metaphorically) sad Mac. Try pulling the tray with the internals on it, reseating the card (it takes a fair amount of pressure), and trying to boot again.

Posted by: maceffects on 2016-06-21 15:52:16
Based on my experience, you more than likely have a bad analog (PAV) board.  Could just be the capacitors, but it may be something more.  This would be where I would start my investigation. 

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