G5 Dual 2.3 PPC Startup problems

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G5 Dual 2.3 PPC Startup problems

Hi

About every other time I start up the computer, nothing comes on the display, and within 1-2 minutes the fans start to accelerate out of control. I then push and hold the start button to abort the startup.
After 10 seconds I startup again, and then it starts up right.

What could be the problem? I am afraid that someday it won't start up at all, which is a big problem since I am running a recording studio, and need to have stable gear.

Thanks

-Sorkin

G5 Dual 2,3 PPC, Mac OS X (10.4.11), Pro Tools HD2 installed (2 PCIe cards)

Posted on Jan 27, 2010 1:41 AM

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Answer 1

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The hatter

Level 9

60,990 points

Jan 27, 2010 3:47 AM in response to Sorkin

I wish there was a "User Reference Library" of tips and links to most helpful threads and "stickies" for how to troubleshoot these types of problems.

A recent thread on startup problems (which should make good reading and have most of the ideas and tips)
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2113312

4 yrs old and battery, internal condition, dust
how well the system is backed up and maintained
preventative maintenance routine - regular use of Disk Warrior and CCC/SuperDuper

A list of links often recommended to deal with battery, SMU Reset, AHT, Safe Mode, Repair Permissions, etc.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1436 SMU Reset

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1573 No Video

http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Newer%20Technology/CR2032/ pram battery

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2580 PDFs DIY

http://www.thexlab.com/faqs/aht.html AHT

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1455 Safe Mode
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564

Of course having SuperDuper and Disk Warrior can be considered essentials to health of Mac OS X systems and an emergency boot drive to handle all the maintenance and repairs, goes without saying.

Can you test the battery and see if it is weak charge?

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Answer 2

Sorkin Author

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Jan 27, 2010 5:44 AM in response to The hatter

Hi Hatter

Thanks for your elaborate reply.

I did read the first thread, but I found it was a different situation. He experienced a freeze, where he had to force shutdown, and couldn't start afterwards. My problem is periodical.

I have now reset the SMU, and tomorrow or the day after, I can see whether it has been helpful or not.
I have also now located the battery, so I know where to find it if I have to change it 😉
I have no tools for measuring the state of the battery.

I will see what happens in a few days

Thanks again

-Sorkin

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Answer 3

The hatter

Level 9

60,990 points

Jan 27, 2010 6:04 AM in response to Sorkin

Any time you force shutdown, consider the directory to be in need of Disk Warrior repair; and, don't rely on just Apple First Aid either.

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Answer 4

Sorkin Author

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Feb 10, 2010 12:39 PM in response to The hatter

The SMU reset did it for me. No problems with startut the last 12 days.

Thanks

Sorkin

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