IMac just shuts down after a safe mode run

Hi,
Suddenly after years of 'normal' run, my iMac is booting into safe mode continuously (spinning cog and progress bar). I did a PRAM reset, made sure the shift key is not stuck, unplugged all my USB/ethernet peripherals.
But the more curious thing is, after the progress bar finishes, my mac just shuts down ! If I restart it, I go through the whole cycle again !
Is this a known behaviour ?
Thanks,
Avinash

(editing for clarity of thread)
Yes - just did that. Ran the Disk Utility -> Repair Disk (in Recovery mode) and I think I see the problem. It says,
"Error : Disk Utility can't repair disk... disk, and restore your backed-up files"
I am assuming it is asking me to restore from a time machine backup ?

Similar Messages

  • IMac just shuts down during iDVD build

    *4 week old 20 inch iMac just shuts down during iDVD build of a dvd. Its really weird, because it is rendering and encoding and all of a sudden it just shuts down without a know. Then when I turn it back on it ejects the blank dvd out and starts. I had my SuperDrive replaced also like 2 days ago from the apple store. I have pasted the system.log if that helps?*
    7/22/09 10:39:01 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] launchctl: Please convert the following to launchd: /etc/mach_init.d/dashboardadvisoryd.plist
    7/22/09 10:39:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.blued) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:39:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.usbmuxd) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:39:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cups-lpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 10:39:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cupsd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 10:39:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.ntp.ntpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 10:39:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.x.privileged_startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:39:07 AM org.ntp.ntpd[27] Error : nodename nor servname provided, or not known
    7/22/09 10:39:14 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.aslmanager) Throttling respawn: Will start in 3 seconds
    7/22/09 10:39:14 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.UserEventAgent-LoginWindow[74]) Exited: Terminated
    7/22/09 10:39:14 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.ScreenSharing.server[73]) Exited: Terminated
    7/22/09 10:39:15 AM com.apple.launchd[81] (com.apple.AirPortBaseStationAgent) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:39:15 AM com.apple.launchd[81] (org.x.startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:39:15 AM Dock[95] _DESCRegisterDockExtraClient failed 268435459
    7/22/09 10:39:16 AM com.apple.launchd[81] ([email protected][85]) Exited with exit code: 1
    7/22/09 10:39:17 AM [0x0-0xf00f].SoftwareUpdateCheck[104] SoftwareUpdateCheck: network unreachable
    7/22/09 10:39:17 AM com.apple.launchd[81] ([0x0-0xf00f].SoftwareUpdateCheck[104]) Exited with exit code: 3
    7/22/09 10:40:55 AM com.apple.loginwindow[36] Shutdown NOW!
    7/22/09 10:40:55 AM com.apple.loginwindow[36] System shutdown time has arrived
    7/22/09 10:41:29 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] launchctl: Please convert the following to launchd: /etc/mach_init.d/dashboardadvisoryd.plist
    7/22/09 10:41:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.blued) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:41:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.usbmuxd) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:41:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cups-lpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 10:41:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cupsd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 10:41:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.ntp.ntpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 10:41:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.x.privileged_startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:41:35 AM org.ntp.ntpd[27] Error : nodename nor servname provided, or not known
    7/22/09 10:41:39 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.UserEventAgent-LoginWindow[80]) Exited: Terminated
    7/22/09 10:41:39 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.ScreenSharing.server[79]) Exited: Terminated
    7/22/09 10:41:39 AM com.apple.launchd[86] (com.apple.AirPortBaseStationAgent) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:41:39 AM com.apple.launchd[86] (org.x.startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 10:41:42 AM com.apple.launchd[86] ([email protected][90]) Exited with exit code: 1
    7/22/09 10:42:06 AM com.apple.loginwindow[36] Shutdown NOW!
    7/22/09 10:42:06 AM com.apple.loginwindow[36] System shutdown time has arrived
    7/22/09 8:39:44 PM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] launchctl: Please convert the following to launchd: /etc/mach_init.d/dashboardadvisoryd.plist
    7/22/09 8:39:44 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.blued) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 8:39:44 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.usbmuxd) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 8:39:44 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cups-lpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 8:39:44 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cupsd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 8:39:44 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.ntp.ntpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 8:39:44 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.x.privileged_startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 8:39:50 PM org.ntp.ntpd[27] Error : nodename nor servname provided, or not known
    7/22/09 8:39:54 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.UserEventAgent-LoginWindow[74]) Exited: Terminated
    7/22/09 8:39:54 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.ScreenSharing.server[73]) Exited: Terminated
    7/22/09 8:39:56 PM com.apple.launchd[81] (com.apple.AirPortBaseStationAgent) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 8:39:56 PM com.apple.launchd[81] (org.x.startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 8:40:00 PM Dock[98] _DESCRegisterDockExtraClient failed 268435459
    7/22/09 8:40:01 PM com.apple.launchd[81] ([email protected][85]) Exited with exit code: 1
    7/22/09 8:51:04 PM iDVD[117] Warning once: This application, or a library it uses, is using NSQuickDrawView, which has been deprecated. Apps should cease use of QuickDraw and move to Quartz.
    7/22/09 8:51:05 PM com.apple.loginwindow[36] Shutdown NOW!
    7/22/09 8:51:05 PM com.apple.loginwindow[36] System shutdown time has arrived
    7/22/09 9:18:06 PM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] launchctl: Please convert the following to launchd: /etc/mach_init.d/dashboardadvisoryd.plist
    7/22/09 9:18:06 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.blued) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 9:18:06 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.usbmuxd) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 9:18:06 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cups-lpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 9:18:06 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cupsd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 9:18:06 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.ntp.ntpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/22/09 9:18:06 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.x.privileged_startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 9:18:17 PM org.ntp.ntpd[27] Error : nodename nor servname provided, or not known
    7/22/09 9:18:20 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.UserEventAgent-LoginWindow[74]) Exited: Terminated
    7/22/09 9:18:20 PM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.ScreenSharing.server[73]) Exited: Terminated
    7/22/09 9:18:21 PM com.apple.launchd[83] (com.apple.AirPortBaseStationAgent) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 9:18:21 PM com.apple.launchd[83] (org.x.startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/22/09 9:18:24 PM com.apple.launchd[83] ([email protected][87]) Exited with exit code: 1
    7/22/09 9:30:03 PM iDVD[135] Warning once: This application, or a library it uses, is using NSQuickDrawView, which has been deprecated. Apps should cease use of QuickDraw and move to Quartz.
    7/22/09 9:54:14 PM com.apple.launchd[83] (com.apple.Spotlight[93]) Exited abnormally: Segmentation fault
    7/22/09 10:00:26 PM iDVD[228] Warning once: This application, or a library it uses, is using NSQuickDrawView, which has been deprecated. Apps should cease use of QuickDraw and move to Quartz.
    7/23/09 10:53:01 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] launchctl: Please convert the following to launchd: /etc/mach_init.d/dashboardadvisoryd.plist
    7/23/09 10:53:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.blued) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:53:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.usbmuxd) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:53:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cups-lpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 10:53:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cupsd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 10:53:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.ntp.ntpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 10:53:01 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.x.privileged_startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:53:14 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.aslmanager) Throttling respawn: Will start in 9 seconds
    7/23/09 10:53:14 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.aslmanager) Throttling respawn: Will start in 9 seconds
    7/23/09 10:53:14 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.aslmanager) Throttling respawn: Will start in 9 seconds
    7/23/09 10:53:16 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.UserEventAgent-LoginWindow[74]) Exited: Terminated
    7/23/09 10:53:16 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.ScreenSharing.server[73]) Exited: Terminated
    7/23/09 10:53:16 AM com.apple.launchd[80] (com.apple.AirPortBaseStationAgent) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:53:16 AM com.apple.launchd[80] (org.x.startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:53:17 AM com.apple.launchd[80] ([email protected][84]) Exited with exit code: 1
    7/23/09 10:55:26 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] fsck_hfs: Volume is journaled. No checking performed.
    7/23/09 10:55:26 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] fsck_hfs: Use the -f option to force checking.
    7/23/09 10:55:29 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] launchctl: Please convert the following to launchd: /etc/mach_init.d/dashboardadvisoryd.plist
    7/23/09 10:55:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.blued) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:55:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.usbmuxd) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:55:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cups-lpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 10:55:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cupsd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 10:55:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.ntp.ntpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 10:55:29 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.x.privileged_startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:55:39 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.UserEventAgent-LoginWindow[72]) Exited: Terminated
    7/23/09 10:55:39 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.ScreenSharing.server[71]) Exited: Terminated
    7/23/09 10:55:41 AM com.apple.launchd[81] (com.apple.AirPortBaseStationAgent) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:55:41 AM com.apple.launchd[81] (org.x.startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 10:55:50 AM com.apple.launchd[81] ([email protected][85]) Exited with exit code: 1
    7/23/09 11:17:51 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] fsck_hfs: Volume is journaled. No checking performed.
    7/23/09 11:17:51 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] fsck_hfs: Use the -f option to force checking.
    7/23/09 11:17:54 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] launchctl: Please convert the following to launchd: /etc/mach_init.d/dashboardadvisoryd.plist
    7/23/09 11:17:54 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.blued) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:17:54 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.usbmuxd) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:17:54 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cups-lpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 11:17:54 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cupsd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 11:17:54 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.ntp.ntpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 11:17:54 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.x.privileged_startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:18:10 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.UserEventAgent-LoginWindow[75]) Exited: Terminated
    7/23/09 11:18:10 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.ScreenSharing.server[74]) Exited: Terminated
    7/23/09 11:18:10 AM com.apple.launchd[82] (com.apple.AirPortBaseStationAgent) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:18:10 AM com.apple.launchd[82] (org.x.startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:18:12 AM com.apple.launchd[82] ([email protected][86]) Exited with exit code: 1
    7/23/09 11:19:23 AM [0x0-0x12012].com.apple.Safari[115] Debugger() was called!
    7/23/09 11:55:06 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] fsck_hfs: Volume is journaled. No checking performed.
    7/23/09 11:55:06 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] fsck_hfs: Use the -f option to force checking.
    7/23/09 11:55:08 AM com.apple.launchctl.System[2] launchctl: Please convert the following to launchd: /etc/mach_init.d/dashboardadvisoryd.plist
    7/23/09 11:55:08 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.blued) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:55:08 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.usbmuxd) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:55:08 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cups-lpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 11:55:08 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.cups.cupsd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 11:55:08 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.ntp.ntpd) Unknown key: SHAuthorizationRight
    7/23/09 11:55:08 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (org.x.privileged_startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:55:25 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.UserEventAgent-LoginWindow[76]) Exited: Terminated
    7/23/09 11:55:25 AM com.apple.launchd[1] (com.apple.ScreenSharing.server[75]) Exited: Terminated
    7/23/09 11:55:25 AM com.apple.launchd[82] (com.apple.AirPortBaseStationAgent) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:55:25 AM com.apple.launchd[82] (org.x.startx) Unknown key for boolean: EnableTransactions
    7/23/09 11:55:25 AM com.apple.launchd[82] ([email protected][86]) Exited with exit code: 1
    7/23/09 12:02:59 PM iMac EFI Firmware Update[140] TMPDIR is set to '/var/folders/GC/GCWw-4RiGJSH3cFjActCtE+TI/-Tmp-/', unsetting it.
    7/23/09 12:02:59 PM iMac EFI Firmware Update[140] iMac EFI Firmware Update version 1.4
    7/23/09 12:02:59 PM iMac EFI Firmware Update[140] OS version is 10.5.7 build 9J61.
    7/23/09 12:02:59 PM iMac EFI Firmware Update[140] No AppleEFINVRAM
    7/23/09 12:03:01 PM [0x0-0x19019].com.apple.updaters.imac.efifirmwareupdater14[140] Run the executable in the Contents/MacOS folder with '-h' option to learn about running remotely.

    most likely caused by overheating due to video encoding increasing cpu usage (system freezing and shutdowns is a problem with older intel imacs). monitor your internal temps using an app like istat. temporary workaround is to use an fan control app like imacfancontrol and increase the cpu fan speeds. but this does not actually fix the problem which may arise more periodically as the system gets older.
    http://www.islayer.com/apps/istatpro/
    http://www.derman.com/Download/Special/iMacFanControl.html
    there's a very long thread regarding this problem:
    http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1467276&tstart=0

  • Since I installed Mountain Lion, my iMac has shut down after 15-20 minutes. I have adjusted screen saver, shut down time, and sleep after. Nothing seems to help, any ideas?

    Since I installed Mountain Lion, my iMac has shut down after 15-20 minutes. I have adjusted screen saver, shut down time, and sleep after. Nothing seems to help, any ideas?

    As old as your iMac is, have you cleaned out the dust? Dust buildup can lead to over heating issues. Remove any and all things plugged into it including the power cord, Remove the RAM access grille. Vacuum all openings starting with the RAM access area (air intake). Vacuum all ports and plugs, DVD slot and the opening across the top of the rear of the body. Blow compressed air through all your openings and vacuum again to remove any dust you loosend. Reinstall the RAM grille. Plug in the keyboard and mouse if not blue tooth. Insert power cord...
    You are now in a perfect position to do a
    SMC RESET
    http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3964
    Shut down the computer.
    Unplug the computer's power cord and ALL peripherals.
    Wait 15 seconds.
    Attach the computers power cable.
    Wait another 5 seconds and press the power button to turn on the computer.
    It is the 5 second timing that initiates the reset.
    Here is a link to a Widget to monitor your temps and other operations:
    http://islayer.com/apps/istatpro/

  • IMac randomly shuts down after Leopard Upgrade

    My wife's iMac randomly shuts down since we installed Leopard. It wasn't doing this before the Leopard upgrade.
    It takes about 5 mins. of inactivity after the machine enters sleep mode, then it shuts down. We've searched the Discussions but have yet to see an answer to our question. Nothing but an iSight is plugged in to the machine. Any suggestions?

    Same problem with random shut downs that get more and more frequent making the computer unusable. Took to Apple Store where they did not recognise the problem - tried replacing RAM then power cable then power supply. Said problem was fixed but started to recur within a short time of using it back home. Used install discs to reinstall the original operating system (Mac OS X 10.5.2) and the problem resolved - on upgrading to Mac OS X 10.5.8 the problem immediately recurred. Have gone back to 10.5.2 now and all seems okay.
    Seems strange that there are so many postings about this and Apple Store (Genius staffseem to be unaware of it as a problem).
    Kim56
    iMac 8.1

  • Re: Satellite A215-S7444 just shuts down after one hour of usage

    I have a satellite A215-S7444.
    My problem is that while i'm on the computer after about an hour or so the computer just shuts down.
    I have already tried changing the power manegment settings which worked for awhile but my laptop still turns off after awhile.

    Hi Patrick
    Im quite sure that your notebook shuts down automatically due to the high temperature inside the notebook.
    Its a simply overheating issue which could be caused by clogged cooling grilles.
    From time to time its advisable to clean the ventilators. Mostly the dust prevents the cooling modules from properly working and therefore the temperature increases.
    I made good experience with the compressed air spray. Such sprays can be purchased from many computer/notebook dealers.
    Additionally you could try to google for some online offers too.
    Bye

  • I phone 3 just shuts down after 3 to 4 mins when making a call large apple logo apears on screen the only way to reboot is to charge charge it although there is enough battery.any answers thanks

    i phone 3 shuts down after 3 to 4 mins when making a call - then large apple sign apeers  phone frozen - only way to unlock is to re charge although there is enough battery - any answers would be welcome.

    The Basic Troubleshooting Steps are:
    Restart... Reset... Restore from Backup...  Restore as New...
    Restart / Reset
    http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1430
    Backing up, Updating and Restoring
    http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1414
    But... This can happen if the phone has been Hacked / Jailbroken / Modified...
    If this is the case... Then... None of the above will necessarily work...
    And...
    The discussion of Jailbroken Devices is against the Terms of Use of this Forum.
    You will need to look elsewhere.

  • IMac keeps shutting down after Time Machine recovery

    I have a late 2007 iMac. The hardrive died, so I installed a new SSD. I have a Time Machine backp on a usb drive and aslo a bootable usb drive created a couple of months ago. I installed Maverics on the new SSD (I was running Maverics before as well), and up to this point everything worked fine. Than I started from Recovery Drive and run Recovery from Time Machine. It seemed to be working fine, but after it was done, the iMac shut down. Now every time I start it, it chimes, the gray background with apple appears, and it shuts down immediately.I repeated the whole proces twice, same thing happend. I also tried to do migration instead of recovey, which worked,  but that didn't copy all my files, just the program files.
    I have no clue, what to do. Any suggestions?

    I have a late 2007 iMac. The hardrive died, so I installed a new SSD. I have a Time Machine backp on a usb drive and aslo a bootable usb drive created a couple of months ago. I installed Maverics on the new SSD (I was running Maverics before as well), and up to this point everything worked fine. Than I started from Recovery Drive and run Recovery from Time Machine. It seemed to be working fine, but after it was done, the iMac shut down. Now every time I start it, it chimes, the gray background with apple appears, and it shuts down immediately.I repeated the whole proces twice, same thing happend. I also tried to do migration instead of recovey, which worked,  but that didn't copy all my files, just the program files.
    I have no clue, what to do. Any suggestions?

  • My MacBook won't go passed a grey screen and the apple logo . It has a loading bar but doesn't do anything and just shuts down after the loading bar is complete... HELP!

    Please please help!  I'm a college student taking finals. Need it fixed asap

    Take each of these steps that you haven't already tried. Stop when the problem is resolved.
    Step 1
    The first step in dealing with a boot failure is to secure your data. If you want to preserve the contents of the startup drive, and you don't already have at least one current backup, you must try to back up now, before you do anything else. It may or may not be possible. If you don't care about the data that has changed since your last backup, you can skip this step.   
    There are several ways to back up a Mac that is unable to boot. You need an external hard drive to hold the backup data.
         a. Boot into the Recovery partition, or from a local Time Machine backup volume (option key at startup.) When the OS X Utilities screen appears, launch Disk Utility and follow the instructions in this support article, under “Instructions for backing up to an external hard disk via Disk Utility.”
    b. If you have access to a working Mac, and both it and the non-working Mac have FireWire or Thunderbolt ports, boot the non-working Mac in target disk mode. Use the working Mac to copy the data to another drive. This technique won't work with USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.
    c. If the internal drive of the non-working Mac is user-replaceable, remove it and mount it in an external enclosure or drive dock. Use another Mac to copy the data.
    Step 2
    Sometimes a boot failure can be resolved by resetting the NVRAM.
    Step 3
    If you use a wireless keyboard, trackpad, or mouse, replace or recharge the batteries. The battery level shown in the Bluetooth menu item may not be accurate.
    Step 4
    If there's a built-in optical drive, a disc may be stuck in it. Follow these instructions to eject it.
    Step 5
    Press and hold the power button until the power shuts off. Disconnect all wired peripherals except those needed to boot, and remove all aftermarket expansion cards. Use a different keyboard and/or mouse, if those devices are wired. If you can boot now, one of the devices you disconnected, or a combination of them, is causing the problem. Finding out which one is a process of elimination.
    If you've booted from an external storage device, make sure that your internal boot volume is selected in the Startup Disk pane of System Preferences.
    Step 6
    Boot in safe mode. Note: If FileVault is enabled on some models, or if a firmware password is set, or if the boot volume is a software RAID, you can’t do this. Post for further instructions.
    Safe mode is much slower to boot and run than normal, and some things won’t work at all, including wireless networking on certain Macs.
    The login screen appears even if you usually log in automatically. You must know your login password in order to log in. If you’ve forgotten the password, you will need to reset it before you begin.
    When you boot in safe mode, it's normal to see a dark gray progress bar on a light gray background. If the progress bar gets stuck for more than a few minutes, or if the system shuts down automatically while the progress bar is displayed, your boot volume is corrupt and the drive is probably malfunctioning. In that case, go to Step 6.
    If you can boot and log in now, empty the Trash, and then open the Finder Info window on your boot volume ("Macintosh HD," unless you gave it a different name.) Check that you have at least 9 GB of available space, as shown in the window. If you don't, copy as many files as necessary to another volume (not another folder on the same volume) and delete the originals. Deletion isn't complete until you empty the Trash again. Do this until the available space is more than 9 GB. Then reboot as usual (i.e., not in safe mode.)
    If the boot process hangs again, the problem is likely caused by a third-party system modification that you installed. Post for further instructions.
    Step 7
    Launch Disk Utility in Recovery mode (see Step 1.) Select your startup volume, then run Repair Disk. If any problems are found, repeat until clear. If Disk Utility reports that the volume can't be repaired, the drive has malfunctioned and should be replaced. You might choose to tolerate one such malfunction in the life of the drive. In that case, erase the volume and restore from a backup. If the same thing ever happens again, replace the drive immediately.
    This is one of the rare situations in which you should also run Repair Permissions, ignoring the false warnings it may produce. Look for the line "Permissions repair complete" at the end of the output. Then reboot as usual.
    Step 8
    Reinstall the OS. If your Mac was upgraded from an older version of OS X, you’ll need the Apple ID and password you used to upgrade.
    Step 9
    Repeat Step 6, but this time erase the boot volume in Disk Utility before installing. The system should automatically reboot into the Setup Assistant. Follow the prompts to transfer your data from a Time Machine or other backup.
    Step 10
    This step applies only to older Macs (not current models) that have a logic-board ("PRAM") battery. Both desktop and portable Macs used to have such a battery. The logic-board battery, if there is one, is separate from the main battery of a portable. A dead logic-board battery can cause a boot failure. Typically the failure will be preceded by loss of the settings for the startup disk and system clock. See the user manual for replacement instructions. You may have to take the machine to a service provider to have the battery replaced.
    Step 11
    If you get this far, you're probably dealing with a hardware fault. Make a "Genius" appointment at an Apple Store, or go to another authorized service provider.

  • IMac keep shutting down after installing OSX lion

    Hi,
    I have a mid 2010 27 inch i5 machine and after I had installed OSX Lion last month the machine randomly shut itself down while I'm using it.  At first I thought it was because of a software problem with Final Cut Pro X, since I installed that at the same time and it would shut down while I was using it.  Then it start to shut down while I'm just browsing the net.  Restarting is not a problem but a pain to loose unsafe data when it crashes.
    Does anybody else have this problem?  Again the machine was working fine before OSX Lion so I don't think it's a hardware issue.  On average it would shutdown once or twice per usage day sometime a few minutes after turning on the machine, still cool, and sometime after a while, not excessively hot.
    Appreciate any help and thank you in advance!

    Hi,
    I have a mid 2010 27 inch i5 machine and after I had installed OSX Lion last month the machine randomly shut itself down while I'm using it.  At first I thought it was because of a software problem with Final Cut Pro X, since I installed that at the same time and it would shut down while I was using it.  Then it start to shut down while I'm just browsing the net.  Restarting is not a problem but a pain to loose unsafe data when it crashes.
    Does anybody else have this problem?  Again the machine was working fine before OSX Lion so I don't think it's a hardware issue.  On average it would shutdown once or twice per usage day sometime a few minutes after turning on the machine, still cool, and sometime after a while, not excessively hot.
    Appreciate any help and thank you in advance!

  • My iMac just shuts down randomly - I can't figure out why   so I can't fix it.  Help !

    My iMac shuts down all the time...but randomly.  I then have to restart it.  what a pain.  I don't know what the problem is.  I use Safari and Firefox and have tried to use one or the other but it still shuts down.  I use Clickfree for backup and have joined Mobileme.    Help!
    jane

    Run the hardware test that came with the Mac.
    http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=303081

  • My iMac just shuts down when running flash facebook applications, after I upgraded to Mountain Lion...Any ideas?

    After upgrading to Mountain Lion, quite often, and when I run flash facebook games, PC freezes and restarts... Any ideas??? Had no problems before with previous OS...

    I think I figured out Firefox, I went under Help > Troubleshooting Information > Reset Firefox.
    I only have one account on my computer. Honestly I don't even really know how multiple accounts work. I've never played around with it. I already allowed Java - should I disable it?

  • Imac randomly shutting down after OS x 10.8.2 upgrade

    After the upgrade last night, I have had 8 occasions where my imac suddenly loses power.  It doesn't go through shutdown, it just is off! 
    Anyone else?  I tend to have Mail open and Chrome at the times when this happens.
    Comments?

    4gb of ram. but actually I think my issue is resolved. I booted from my cloned backup on Sunday, ran disk utility to verify and repair permissions on my harddrive. I've been up and running ever since. The permissions repair fixed something having to do with "coregraphics". didnt save the report. I'm still afraid to let my display sleep, harddrive, etc though. I'm afraid I wont get it to come back on if it does. A little more checking though and I think I'll be good to go. Ran WoW for 2 hours without a problem. itunes working fine. Still curious as to whether this really was a permissions issue. oh the enigma! :)

  • Itunes just shuts down after a few seconds - no error message.

    Ok, i've been wrestling with my itunes for 3 days. My itunes starts up no problem, works for between 5-30 seconds, then just dissapears without any error msg. I've tried every single trouble shooting topic in these forums. From getting rid of Norton, deleting Apple from my registry, installing quicktime as a standalone, checking my windows processes to see if i have any spyware running when im starting up itunes, changing my start up to only the apple products, etc, etc, etc, etc. I can't even remember most of the other ones I've tried, thats how many I've done. I've probably spent at least 10 hours in front of my computer dealing with this. Thats more than i usually spend in 2 weeks. Only because i NEED my itunes to be working. I have the new IPOD video coming and I want it working by the time it gets to my house so i can use it. Has anyone had this problem and gotten it fixed? ANY help would be incredible, i'm so sick and tired and trying things, thinking they'll work, and then they of course, don't. Thanks in advance!

    please help!
    i've tried the method in the other topic with the guy/gal who was having the same problems as me and it didn't work.

  • All apps just shut downs after few seconds/minutes.  I have reset Ipad but did not help. What next?

    - Have an Ipad 2 with IOS 5(01?) installed.

    Reset the iPad by holding down on the sleep and home buttons at the same time for about 10-15 seconds until the Apple Logo appears - ignore the red slider - let go of the buttons.
    If that doesn't help - try downloading another app - any free app will work. See if that helps.

  • Won't Boot Up - Just Shuts Down

    Hi all, I need some help.
    I'm trying to build a new computer. I'm running the following:
    MSI865 Neo2
    Intel P4 3.0ghz
    2x512mb Kingston DDR400 Ram
    ATI Radeon 9800 Pro
    Antec Tru430w PS
    Maxtor 80gb SATA HD
    Whenever i turn on the machine 5-15 seconds later it just turns off. Sometimes I get as far as seeing a message saying "BIOS Not Installed" then something about the Floppy Drive then it shuts off. If I try it again without waiting 5 minutes or so, the monitor doesn't even have time to turn on before it again, just shuts off.
    I've checked all connections, tried reseating ram/video card/etc, and with only the video card and ram connected. I've also tried clearing the CMOS using the jumper the way the manual said to.
    Please help, and thanks in advance for your replies.
    P.S. On SATA HD's....do you need to plug in power to both sata & the standard 4pin? Also is there a special combination to use since with the 9800 pro needs a connection from the power supply to the card to the Hard Drive?

    Quote
    It always just shuts down after it tells me "BIOS Not Installed"
    This implies you have the FIS2R board. This is the message from the Promise controller indicating it is not going to install it's bios since it didn't find a drive. Once you can get into the bios you can disable the Promise controller and get rid of the message.
    Quote
    On SATA HD's....do you need to plug in power to both sata & the standard 4pin?
    No. This must be one of the SATA drives that has both connectors to ease transition.
    Two beeps is either a memory error or a post failure. Try booting with only one stick of memory installed. If that doesn't work try the other stick. If that doesn't work try one stick in a different slot.

Maybe you are looking for

  • Can I tell Acrobat where to automatically create forms when scanning in many of the same document?

    The automatic form creator isnt very good at recognizing where I want text forms when I scan in this particular paper form. I have lots of these paper forms that look the same and am trying to convert each of them into a editable digital copy. Is the

  • What's best resolution for photos

    I take very high resolution photos, 1mg files with 2000 by 3000 resolution.  It's a hold over from when I worked in publishing. Is this overkill, or does this allow me to get the grain in a hardwood floor, details in a piece of masonary, detials that

  • SOAP Adapter DynamicConfiguration SRemoteHost

    Hi guys, i use in my SOAP to FTP scenario the adapter specific parameter SRemoteHost, that means i add a suffix with the sender hostname to the receiver filename. It works fine, the only problem i have is, that the field SRemoteHost has the value '10

  • Word 2010 freezes when I try to print with HP 7410 all-in-one

    Word 2010 freezes and has to be closed, cannot save anything once you attempt to print. HP solutions say it is connected to network and desktop connected prints. It uses word 2003 software

  • Export tables for certain time frame

    Hi All, Can I export tables for certain time frame? Or from last time I exported those tables? All I want is to have all the changs of the tables from last time I did export, then I can import this delta portion into another instance, thus complete t