What is the hole under the power cord for?

I would very seriously recommend that you get a decent surge protector; plugging an expensive computer into an unreliable power source is asking for problems.

Now, if you cannot turn it on, I'd suggest taking it to your nearest Genius Bar (make an appointment) for free diagnosis.

But, I'm curious: what exactly are you referring to in your subject line with "hole under the power cord"?

That's a security slot. You can purchase a locking cable (Kensington standard) to attach it to a desk.

http://store.apple.com/us/product/TW041LL/A/kensington-microsaver-lock

Matt

The hole under the power cord is a security slot for a lock down cable to secure your imac to a table, bookcase etc.

LOL...beaten by Matt!

I have to admit: absolutely no idea..... but, I just looked through my User Manual:

it's a security slot (presumably to secure it to the desk or whatever?).

Edit: Ha, if I didn't have to find my manual, I would have beaten y'all......... 😁

Try resetting the SMC as described in this article (it's a way down the page, click on "Resetting the SMC for Mac Pro, Intel iMac, etc"

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3964?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US

Matt

Well, I'd go back to my initial suggestion: take it to the Genius Bar. If there was some sort of short and it will not start, the only things you could try first is to reset the PRAM

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1379

and the SMC:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3964

At this point I think the Apple Store, or a local authorized service center, is the best option for you.

Matt

Deborah,

Here are the specific steps for performing a SMC reset just so it's clear (note bolded bits):

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.

Dave

P.S. If this doesn't work, repeat the process again only bypassing your APS conditioner completely this time using a standard AC wall outlet for testing/powering your mac. The APS unit may have an internal fault of some sort.

Glad it worked Deb and thanks for the points!

Unfortunately I don't have any experience with using power conditioners to protect PCs. I'm sure a search on the Internet with a focus on sites which actually tested a specific conditioner with real world AC failure/fault scenarios with outcomes might give you more insight though.

Gonna get a better APC. Any recommendations?

I have a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) from APC; works fine.