2020 iMac 27 Kernel Panic with external Apple Cinema display monitor

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2020 iMac 27 Kernel Panic with external Apple Cinema display monitor

A few weeks ago I replaced my 2014 iMac 5k with a refurbished 2020 iMac 27

(3.8 i7 / 32gb Ram / 1tb SSD/ 5700 8gb on Sonoma)

I've had kernel panics almost every day since I've owned it. I used migration assistant initially, so I thought that might be the issue. I did a complete erase and moved over the files I needed manually. I tried Command R and reinstalled Sonoma. None of that solved the issue.

I have an old Apple Cinema display that used mini display connector. I've found that it seems to cause panics when it was plugged in with a USB-C to Displayport adapter so I bought a Dell D6000 powered hub and it seems to be more reliable. BUT. I still have occasional kernel panics that only seem to happen when I use shut down from the apple menu and boot with the button.

Admittedly, I have not had a kernel panic when nothing is plugged in but a keyboard and a mouse

I've attached an EtreCheck Report.

Does anyone have any suggestions? I have until July 6th to return this iMac, but I'd rather not hassle with that if I can solve the issue myself.

Kernel Panic EtreCheck Report

iMac (2017 – 2020)

Posted on Jun 25, 2024 9:01 AM

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Answer 1

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phranticness Author

Level 1

15 points

Jun 28, 2024 6:40 PM in response to phranticness

I wanted to update this thread. I fixed the issue.

I deleted the volume Macintosh HD (the volume with Sonoma on it, both OS and Data) and reinstalled a fresh copy of Sonoma. That fixed my kernel panic issues. I'd like to say that I came up with the idea right after posting this question but it was a lot of trail and error. When eventually made the decision for me was doing a "repair" on the "Data" volume and it came back with an corrupt error. I tried repairing with disk utility in all possible boots, none would fix it.

I think the issue started with my trying to use migration assistant from a time machine backup from a failing hard drive. Or maybe it was because my time machine backups were backups from several machines spanning 15 years.

I'm far from an expert with Mac OS or any OS for that matter, but I'm persistent and decent with google search, sorting the chaff from the wheat in posts and threads.

If anyone finds this thread in the future, don't rule out doing a format + fresh install to solve your issues, it takes a few hours but it might be the solution you're looking for.

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Answer 2

rkaufmann87

Level 10

149,220 points

Jun 25, 2024 10:31 AM in response to phranticness

Return the computer to the Ebay seller, those Ebay Refurbished machines are frequently NOT setup correctly and often used low quality. components. In short they ARE NOT to be trusted!!!!!!!!! We run into similar problems as you are stating often.

If you cannot afford a new Mac then buy from a reputable reseller like MacSales.com which can be trusted.

Moving forward NEVER EVER buy a used Mac from:

Ebay
MarketPlace
Nextdoor
Your local computer/electronics store
Even your best friend

Why, more often than not you are inheriting someone else's problems and/or the computer was NOT setup per Apples instructions in What to do before you sell, give away, trade in, or recycle your Mac - Apple Support .

If you, buy new from Apple or buy an Apple Refurbished Mac directly from Apple (yes Apple has a refurbished store) and last only purchase from a trusted reseller such as MacSales.com.

Sorry to hear this is happening to you, however consider it a lesson learned.

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Answer 3

rkaufmann87

Level 10

149,220 points

Jun 25, 2024 9:39 AM in response to phranticness

Where exactly did you buy the 2020 iMac, you said it is refurbished however Apple hasn't sold refurb 2020 iMacs in months at least here in the USA. You need to be a bit more specific so we know. We cannot assume all refurbished Macs are refurbished to the same standards.

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Answer 4

hcsitas

Level 6

13,970 points

Jun 25, 2024 9:42 AM in response to phranticness

Try the settings exactly as shown below, might fix. Also, do not manual-sleep your iMac - shut for long absences and overnights and/or let the display switch off on timer.

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Answer 5

phranticness Author

Level 1

15 points

Jun 25, 2024 10:04 AM in response to rkaufmann87

I bought it from a fairly large eBay seller "ipowerresale". They specialize in used "refurbished" Macs. I'm sure it's just used with a fresh install of Sonoma.

As you pointed out, Apple no longer offers intel Macs at all, so I'm stuck going with 3rd party. M-series Macs are not an option for me.

Here are a couple screenshots from console before a fresh install.

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Answer 6

phranticness Author

Level 1

15 points

Jun 26, 2024 7:54 PM in response to rkaufmann87

Thank you for taking the time to respond.

That said, I don’t agree with your assessment. The advice to return this specific computer might be appropriate, but your advice for where to buy a computer is just something I can’t agree with.

Still, I appreciate you taking the time to respond.

If anyone else has specific advice related to the information I’ve posted I would appreciate your input.

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Answer 7

rkaufmann87

Level 10

149,220 points

Jun 26, 2024 8:39 PM in response to phranticness

Totally understand. The reason I provided the reasons I did is we see your type of posts several times per week on these forums where folks that are simply trying to save a buck buy what they think is a quality product from what they think are reputable sources only to find out otherwise. I hope your situation has a happier end though and wish you the best of luck and can find a viable solution. If your vendor offers any type of warranty or supply I strongly suggest you exercise them.

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