softballb603

Q: Startup frozen

Hello,

 

My inherited iMac (purchased in 2008, I believe) is not starting properly. It was given to me in 2012 and had been completely cleaned off with the basic apps included for how I use the computer (Microsoft, Adobe package, etc.). It has been wonderful until just recently it was saying that the startup disc was nearly full (something I was working on figuring out to begin with) and then today it froze on start-up at the apple logo. After 2.5 hours it loaded to the login screen but would go no further. I can't do any rebooting because I only have a wireless keyboard and it won't connect because of whatever else is going on. Any thoughts?

 

Thank you!

iMac, iOS 9.3.1

Posted on Jul 8, 2016 12:07 PM

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Q: Startup frozen

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  • by rkaufmann87,

    rkaufmann87 rkaufmann87 Jul 8, 2016 1:32 PM in response to softballb603
    Level 9 (58,164 points)
    Photos for Mac
    Jul 8, 2016 1:32 PM in response to softballb603

    This sounds like you ignored the messages the computer provided that let you know the computer was nearing HD capacity. Because of the HD continued filling up until it could not hold any more information therefore the computer cannot be booted. This would be the case with any type of computer. If you have access to another Mac then what you can do is connect the two together via Fire wire Target Disk Mode (Share files between two computers with target disk mode - Apple Support) and move large libraries (typically music, photos, movies ect.) to an External HD. Once that is done and the libraries are erased from the iMac's HD then it should be able to startup assuming there are no other issues.

     

    My suggestion though , is to take it to and AASP in your area that can help. You can begin finding one in your area by clicking https://locate.apple.com/country

     

    Good luck!