iMac won't power on... solution! (sometimes)

[ur_beer_buddy]

Recently I had an old G3 iMac's power supply fail on me. It is a known issue and the only fix apple had was a $300 part replacement. (not sure which one) i really just wanted my data retrieved but had to pay to fix the computer first.

So now my second G3 iMac has failed. It's a very helpless feeling... everytime I try to power it on it lights up for just a second and sometimes even teases me with half of a startup chime before it just shuts down.

I am unsure of what exact model my iMac is but it has a hole at the bottom to access memory and the airport card and it's slot loading. If you have this problem with this iMac then this solution might just be for you. (i cannot garuantee the safety of you or your equipment so attempt this at your own risk!)

Start with the iMac face down and unplugged with the rear toward you. Unlock and open the access door. Remove all memory. Down and to the left is a tiny black button. It is the battery reset button. Use a pen and hold down the button for ten seconds. Plug the iMac in. Now you want to simultaniously hold the power button and the reset button (located on the side by the ports) until you hear a long beep. The iMac should now have a flashing power button. Now comes the part that shouldn't have worked but did. While the iMac is still on you must reinsert the memory cards. This may be dangerous to you or the iMac. I didn't know or care as I needed that data and didn't have $300 for another outdated computer's reincarnation. At this point you should close the acces door, turn the computer right side up, cross your toes, and press the reset button...

aaaahhh.

If all went well you should hear a startup chime and be well on your way to transfering your data to a more stable computer. I have been running my iMac like this for about a week at a time before it shuts itself off and I have to repeat this entire process. So if you intend to actually use your problematic iMac then have it repaired. Otherwise, this works to get your data. Hope this helps someone. Good luck.