Nine beeps after installing additional memory

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Nine beeps after installing additional memory

When I install memory into the two empty slots in my late-2009 iMac and turn it on, it beeps in what sounds like (angry) morse code. It does long and short beeps in a pattern of short-short-short-long-long-long-short-short-short, and then it stops and shuts down. Fortunately, the machine does start up again just fine on the original memory.

This does not seem to be the three-beep pattern that shows up in the support communities discussions. I have checked the installation multiple times (according to instructions at http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1423#1) and pushed the cards in so hard my thumbs hurt, so I don't think that is the issue.

The memory is also from Apple (http://store.apple.com/us/memorymodel/ME_IMAC_F09_21) and is brand new, so that shouldn't be the issue either.

In case my system details help, here are the basics:

I also have a video of the beeping that I could probably make available if it would help.

Any thoughts, Apple gurus? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

iMac, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.2)

Posted on Jan 7, 2013 12:53 PM

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Answer 1

Kappy

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Jan 7, 2013 12:58 PM in response to eclectra

Power On Self-Test Beep Definition - Part 2

Intel-based Mac Power On Self Test RAM error beeps

Usually this means there is a memory related problem or worse. Be sure you have installed the new memory properly. It's very easy to think the memory is properly seated when it is not. Also consult the Addming Memory section in your user manual to be sure you have installed the new modules in the correct slots.

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Answer 2

eclectra Author

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Jan 7, 2013 1:38 PM in response to Kappy

Thanks for the response Kappy. But as I said, I did consult the (online) manual, and there are only two slots available. Do you have any specific recommendations for making sure the memory is properly seated? There are tracks on the sides that guide up/down movement, and I can push it in only so far. I also made sure that the little notch is on the right side, like in the diagram in the instructions. What else should I check?

Regarding the meaning of the beeps, the list you linked to goes up to only 5, but I get 9 beeps..

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Answer 3

eclectra Author

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Jan 7, 2013 1:49 PM in response to eclectra

I also did a disk verify of the hard drive, just for kicks, and everything 'appears to be OK'.

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Answer 4

Kappy

Level 10

362,017 points

Jan 7, 2013 1:52 PM in response to eclectra

Be sure the modules "click" into place. I have no specific information on the 9 beeps other than "take it in to be serviced." One suggestion is that it is firmware problem, while another is that it's a motherboard problem.

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