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User profile for user: IL_Ridgeback
IL_Ridgeback Author
User level: Level 1
8 points

iMac freezing

Hi, I have a 21.5" mid 2010 iMac with High Sierra 10.13.6. The computer keeps freezing and showing the colored pinwheel. It occasionally works fine. Works fine in safe mode. If I unplug awhile, then it works fine also. But ultimately regresses. I've redownloaded OS and then it worked fine for awhile, but then regresses. Any one have an idea how to fix it? I would prefer not to have to buy a new one, but I recognize that this one is getting long in the teeth. Thanks,

iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.13

Posted on Apr 10, 2021 6:51 AM

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User profile for user: Jack-19
Jack-19
User level: Level 8
46,014 points

Posted on Apr 10, 2021 6:53 AM

Hi there,


I believe we need to proceed with an EtreCheck report. EtreCheck is a useful app to diagnose and identify issues, both hardware and software. It is trusted by many users. Please follow the steps outlined below:


  1. Navigate to: https://etrecheck.com and get the free version of EtreCheckPro.
  2. Download it. It is a free and trusted app. It is often recommended here on Apple Support Communities. 
  3. Open EtreCheck, and before running the report, be sure to check “Allow full Drive Access” at the bottom of the EtreCheckPro window.
  4. Run the report, and put it in a post, as seen here: https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-250000211. We will then examine the report for issues in your Mac.


Cheers,


Jack

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User profile for user: Jack-19
Jack-19
User level: Level 8
46,014 points

Apr 10, 2021 6:53 AM in response to IL_Ridgeback

Hi there,


I believe we need to proceed with an EtreCheck report. EtreCheck is a useful app to diagnose and identify issues, both hardware and software. It is trusted by many users. Please follow the steps outlined below:


  1. Navigate to: https://etrecheck.com and get the free version of EtreCheckPro.
  2. Download it. It is a free and trusted app. It is often recommended here on Apple Support Communities. 
  3. Open EtreCheck, and before running the report, be sure to check “Allow full Drive Access” at the bottom of the EtreCheckPro window.
  4. Run the report, and put it in a post, as seen here: https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-250000211. We will then examine the report for issues in your Mac.


Cheers,


Jack

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User profile for user: rkaufmann87
rkaufmann87
User level: Level 10
143,898 points

Apr 19, 2021 11:16 AM in response to IL_Ridgeback

Your EtreCheck report indicates:


"Failing hard drive - This computer has a hard drive that appears to be failing."


Considering the computer is 12 years old and has a value that is less than $200 I would recommend that you put your resources towards replacing it. If you cannot afford a new Mac, there are many alternatives to you Personally (and I think most experienced users would agree) I would replace it.


If you need assistance selecting a new Mac, please let us know and we can help you get an idea of what would work well for you.


Best of luck!

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iMac freezing

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