what does it mean if my computer turns on and automatically shuts down a few seconds later?

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Level 1

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what does it mean if my computer turns on and automatically shuts down a few seconds later?

I tried to restart my desktop but every time it tries to reboot, it automatically shuts down within 30 seconds. Is there an easy resolution for this or do I need to bring it in?

Mac Pro, iOS 5.0.1

Posted on Nov 20, 2012 9:47 PM

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Answer 1

a brody

Level 10

82,965 points

Nov 21, 2012 10:20 AM in response to emorganz

You are talking the desktop machine? If you are talking the notebook, make sure it is plugged in and this still is happening. If it is happening on a desktop, verify the circuit breaker box doesn't have a bumped circuit switch that is slightly off kilter. If it doesn't, then bring it in. If a notebook has it happening and there is no issue with the circuit switch, then bring both the power adapter and the notebook in.

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Answer 2

The hatter

Level 9

60,990 points

Nov 21, 2012 10:49 AM in response to emorganz

Mac OS X Help

Isolating Issues in Mac OS

http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1388

https://www.apple.com/support/osx/

https://www.apple.com/support/quickassist/

http://www.apple.com/support/mac101/help/

http://www.apple.com/support/mac101/tour/

Get Help with your Product

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304725

Startup Manager: How to select a startup volume

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT131

Troubleshooting: My computer won't turn on

https://support.apple.com/kb/TS1367

Symptoms

If your Macintosh computer won't turn on, here's how to troubleshoot it. Please keep in mind that although your computer may display similar symptoms that prevent it from showing video, this article discusses what to do if the computer won't turn on, meaning that when you press the power button:

You don't hear a startup chime.
You don't hear any fan or drive noise.
The power button or power indicator doesn't light up at all.

If your computer doesn't display any video, it may display one or more of these similar symptoms when you press the power button:

You may hear a startup chime.
You may hear fan or drive noise.
You may see the power button or power indicator light up.

If any of these conditions occurs, see Troubleshooting: My computer has no video instead.

If your computer won't turn on, try each of these steps:

Make sure that the power cord is plugged into a working wall outlet, and that it's properly connected to the power adapter. (To check if the wall socket is working, plug in a lamp or other electrical device.)
Make sure that the power adapter is properly connected to the power port on the side or back of the computer.
Disconnect all accessories that are plugged into the computer, such as a printer, hub, or other mobile device.
Reset the computer's PMU, SMC, or PRAM. Refer to the instructions for your model:

reset SMC For "Mac wont' turn on or boot" and related

https://support.apple.com/kb/TS1367

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