iMac (late 2009) usb port failure

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Level 1

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iMac (late 2009) usb port failure

One of the usb ports on the back of my late 2009 model iMac appears to have failed (none of the devices that I plug into that port are recognized nor do they recieve power). I assume that this is covered under the Apple Care agreement that I purchased.

I would like to know if others have experienced this sort of problem. If so, was Apple able to repair the computer? Or, was a replacement necessary?

Thanks.

iMac10,1, Mac OS X (10.7.2), Intel Core 2 Duo, 3.33 GHz, 8 GB, ATI Radeon HD 4670

Posted on Dec 22, 2011 11:47 AM

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Answer 1

den.thed

Level 9

77,182 points

Dec 22, 2011 11:57 AM in response to jice0

First try resetting the SMC,

Intel-based Macs: Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC)

1. Shut down the computer.

2. Unplug the computer's power cord.

3. Wait fifteen seconds.

4. Attach the computer's power cord.

5. Wait five seconds, then press the power button to turn on the computer.

except in step 3. try waiting 10 or 15 minutes instead of only 15 seconds.

Then if they are still not working, it will be necessary to contact Apple Care or your local Apple Service Provider.

Apple - Support - iMac - Service FAQ

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Answer 2

jice0 Author

Level 1

10 points

Dec 22, 2011 12:00 PM in response to den.thed

Thanks.

I didn't see mention of USB in the link, but seems that rebooting was worth a try (I was in the midst of working in many windows, but bit the bullet). Sure enough, after a simple reboot, the USB port was restored.

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Answer 3

den.thed

Level 9

77,182 points

Dec 22, 2011 12:26 PM in response to jice0

The USB ports have overload protection built into them that generally resets once the power has been disconnected for a short time. There was an older artical for resetting the USB ports that is very similar to the SMC reset which also does pretty much the same thing.

Glad to hear that they are now working.

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