iMac start-up problem

My iMac sometimes will not wake-up form a tap on the wireless keyboard!

It will start from the button on the back, or a power off-then-on. Has anyone had this problem or an answer please?


note: no software is running apart from the background stuff…

iMac 21.5″, macOS 13.4

Posted on Aug 10, 2023 4:10 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Aug 10, 2023 4:23 AM

  1. Check Bluetooth Connection:Ensure that your wireless keyboard is properly paired with your iMac via Bluetooth. Sometimes, a weak or interrupted Bluetooth connection can prevent the keyboard from waking up the computer. Try re-pairing the keyboard if necessary.
  2. Check Power and Batteries:Make sure the batteries in your wireless keyboard are not depleted. Replace the batteries with fresh ones and ensure they are properly inserted. Also, confirm that the keyboard is turned on.
  3. Keyboard Shortcut:Press a key on the wireless keyboard or use a specific key combination (such as Command + Option + Eject) to wake up the computer from sleep. Sometimes, using a key combination can help trigger the wake-up process.
  4. Check Energy Saver Settings:Go to System Preferences > Energy Saver and review the settings. Make sure that "Wake for network access" and "Allow Bluetooth devices to wake this computer" options are enabled.
  5. Reset Bluetooth Module:Resetting the Bluetooth module on your iMac might help resolve connectivity issues. To do this, go to System Preferences > Bluetooth, click the "X" next to your keyboard's name to remove it, and then click "Pair" to re-pair the keyboard.
  6. Check for Software Updates:Make sure your iMac's operating system is up to date. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Software Update to check for and install any available updates.
  7. Check USB Ports:If your wireless keyboard uses a USB receiver, ensure that it's securely plugged into a USB port on your iMac. A loose connection could cause the keyboard to not wake up the computer.
  8. Reset NVRAM/PRAM:Resetting the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (Parameter RAM) might help resolve certain hardware-related issues. Restart your iMac and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R until you hear the startup chime twice.
  9. Check for Third-Party Software Conflicts:Sometimes, third-party software or drivers can interfere with system functions. If you've recently installed any third-party software, try uninstalling it and see if the issue persists.
  10. Contact Apple Support:If the problem continues, you might consider reaching out to Apple Support for further assistance. They can guide you through more advanced troubleshooting steps and help identify any underlying hardware or software issues.


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 10, 2023 4:23 AM in response to Donrodders

  1. Check Bluetooth Connection:Ensure that your wireless keyboard is properly paired with your iMac via Bluetooth. Sometimes, a weak or interrupted Bluetooth connection can prevent the keyboard from waking up the computer. Try re-pairing the keyboard if necessary.
  2. Check Power and Batteries:Make sure the batteries in your wireless keyboard are not depleted. Replace the batteries with fresh ones and ensure they are properly inserted. Also, confirm that the keyboard is turned on.
  3. Keyboard Shortcut:Press a key on the wireless keyboard or use a specific key combination (such as Command + Option + Eject) to wake up the computer from sleep. Sometimes, using a key combination can help trigger the wake-up process.
  4. Check Energy Saver Settings:Go to System Preferences > Energy Saver and review the settings. Make sure that "Wake for network access" and "Allow Bluetooth devices to wake this computer" options are enabled.
  5. Reset Bluetooth Module:Resetting the Bluetooth module on your iMac might help resolve connectivity issues. To do this, go to System Preferences > Bluetooth, click the "X" next to your keyboard's name to remove it, and then click "Pair" to re-pair the keyboard.
  6. Check for Software Updates:Make sure your iMac's operating system is up to date. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Software Update to check for and install any available updates.
  7. Check USB Ports:If your wireless keyboard uses a USB receiver, ensure that it's securely plugged into a USB port on your iMac. A loose connection could cause the keyboard to not wake up the computer.
  8. Reset NVRAM/PRAM:Resetting the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (Parameter RAM) might help resolve certain hardware-related issues. Restart your iMac and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R until you hear the startup chime twice.
  9. Check for Third-Party Software Conflicts:Sometimes, third-party software or drivers can interfere with system functions. If you've recently installed any third-party software, try uninstalling it and see if the issue persists.
  10. Contact Apple Support:If the problem continues, you might consider reaching out to Apple Support for further assistance. They can guide you through more advanced troubleshooting steps and help identify any underlying hardware or software issues.


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iMac start-up problem

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