IMac RAM upgrade issues

I have a 2007 iMac(2.4 Ghz "20 running Snow Leopard) with 1 MB of RAM. I recently purchased 4 MB of Kingston RAM from NewEgg (2 x 2 MB). When I put both 2 MB sticks in the slots, the computer does not start up (it shows the blank screen and you can hear the hard drive whirring, but nothing else). I can only get the computer to start if I have the original 1 MB stick in the left slot and one of 2 MB sticks in the right slot. Is there anything I'm overlooking?
And yes, I did the upgrade properly.

While memory is supposed to be able to run slower than rated, I've always thought it's best to get the memory that is defined for your system.  I would return it and get the 667Mhz version.  Both OWC and Crucial are also respected sources for mac memory.

Similar Messages

  • Early 2008 24" imac ram upgrade issues

    Hi everyone.  Hope you guys can help diagnose a problem I have with my imac.
    It's an early 2008 24" imac with 3.06 Ghz processor and an NVIDIA Geforce 8800 GS 512 graphics card.
    After buying Empire: Total War I thought it best to upgrade the 2GB RAM to 4GB, and purchased 2x2GB sticks 800 Mhz 6400 DDR2 SDRAM.
    When they arrived I put them in and the system booted up normally.  I could surf the net ok, but when it came to watching a video on youtube full screen, or playing a game, it would cope for 30secs-1min and then the spinning coloured wheel would show.  I'd then hear noises that sound like a cd trying to eject then the system would hang.  One of three things would then happen:
    - it would automatically reboot showing the multi-lingual startup message that the system was not shut down properly
    - a grey blank screen would appear and not change
    - the grey start up screen would appear with the Apple logo and spinning circle, which would then stop spinning and not change.
    If I manually rebooted I just get a black screen and can only hear the fans softly spinning.
    I've tried swapping the ram sticks but get the same as above.  It will boot and work normally with either one of the 2GB ram sticks installed on it's own.  It will also work normally with the original 2x1GB sticks installed again.
    I don't get the 3 beep warning at startup.
    Any thoughts on why this might be happening?  Would the graphics card be the reason for this issue?
    I'm not sure if these are related but a few weeks ago I noticed that the brightness would randomly change from normal to half-brightness then back to normal.  These would change every few minutes or so and isn't dependent on what programmes I have running.
    I've also recently noticed that the top and back of the imac is getting quite warm to the touch and no don't leave the system running when not in use.

    Hello,
    Have you blown the dust out lately?
    Get Temperature Monitor to see if it's heat related...
    http://www.macupdate.com/info.php/id/12381/temperature-monitor
    iStat Menus...
    http://bjango.com/mac/istatmenus/
    And/or iStat Pro...
    http://www.islayer.com/apps/istatpro/
    EDIT: you won't find iStat Pro at BDAqua's link any longer. (No longer supported by the developer, and not completely compatible with Mountain Lion, but most of its features should still be working.) It's here
    https://www.apple.com/downloads/dashboard/status/istatpro.html
    Do you have a link to the exact RAM you bought?
    That grapics card is known to be a problem, but the brightness issue seems more like the Backlight or Inverter.

  • 24" iMac (Primo 2009) strange RAM upgrade issue

    I have a 24" iMac (Primo 2009) at work. I been granted a RAM upgrade by the IT department and have received 2 indentical 4 GB modules.
    The 24" iMac (Primo 2009) uses 1066 MHz DDR3 modules and supports up to 8 GB RAM in 2 slots. I have purchased RAM from this source http://www.dustin.dk/product/5010642132/corsair-4gb-ddr3-1066mhz-1x4gb-so-dimm-i mac-macbook-macpro/#intcmp=searchProvider_SiteSeeker (Corsair Mac Memory so they SHOULD be fine.)
    Here's the issue:
    I had 2x 2GB modules. I have taken both out.
    I have inserted the new 2x 4GB modules but the machine refuses to boot. It gives off 3 beeps-interval-3 beeps-interval (repeats).
    I took out one of the 4GB modules from slot B. It boots.
    I inserted the one I removed in slot B again so we're back at 8GB. same beeps. No boot.
    I switched the 2 4GB modules from slot A+B around. Now beep-interval-beep-interval (repeats) No boot.
    I inserted one 4 GB in slot 1, and one of the old 2 GB in slot 2. It boots with 6GB RAM.
    I inerted only the one that won't boot when in slot B in slot A, beep-interval-beep-interval (repeats) No boot.
    OK - so logical deduction tells me one of the new 4GB RAM modules is defective. No matter what configuration, booting fails with that specific module inserted, though there are different beeps. I also know tha both slots work since the machine works with 6 GB RAM (2+4).
    So I called Dustin, and since we're a big customer they sent a new moduel for free. But, I have the same isssue with the new module!! What are the chances I have recived 1 working and 2 defective modules? not big right? So my iMac seems fine with the old 2GB modules and one of the new 4 GB modules, but says no to the 2 other 4GB modules.
    YES - I have tried resetting PRAM and SMC to no avail. Any clue?

    Switched the 2 modules around, so there's now a 2GB in slot A and a 4 GB in slot B. Still works fine
      Model Name:
    iMac
      Model Identifier:
    iMac9,1
      Processor Name:
    Intel Core 2 Duo
      Processor Speed:
    2,93 GHz
      Number of Processors:
    1
      Total Number of Cores:
    2
      L2 Cache:
    6 MB
      Memory:
    6 GB
      Bus Speed:
    1,07 GHz
      Boot ROM Version:
    IM91.008D.B08
      SMC Version (system):
    1.45f0

  • Sore thumbs from iMac RAM upgrade

    iMac 27" i7 Ram upgrade from 4GB to 16GB, boy, these ram upgrade really gave my thumbs a hard workout! I've had at least a dozen Ram upgrades across PCs and laptops, never had to push the Rams in as hard as I did today. Still sore thumbs after 3 hours!

    Try hard they pop up.
    I just insert a 2x$GB in the free slots and it come with 2x2GB so like 12Gb.
    Do you know the plastic tabs to remobe the modules?
    I saw that one of them is like the paper in the photo,i see you have some experience upgrading ram so because none answer my post i decide asking you directly.
    The 2011 imac is working for almost three months and it recognize the new memory modules but now i know that one of the tabs is touching a ram module,is that big problem?I mean no just because the static energy more because if the module become too hot(I even know if they become hot by use) the tab can burn,is something to worry about or just ignore it?
    Thank you very much.

  • Ram upgrade issues - am i really this dumb?

    I just purchased a pair of ram modules, tried installing them several times - different slots etc, but they are not recognized - I'm pretty sure they're the right type, but maybe I'm mistaken. Any help would be appreciated - I'm banging my head against the wall on this one. A ram upgrade should be a no brainer no?
    Anyway the ram i bought is 2x 1gb ddr2-533 dimm 4200.
    I have a G5 quad 2.5 - currently has 4x 1gig modules and 2x 256mb modules.

    You've posted in the Mac Pro forum. Are you asking about RAM for a G5 Quad or for a Mac Pro?
    G5 Quad: 240 pin DDR2 533 MHz PC2-4200 ECC or NECC SDRAM
    Mac Pro: 240 pin DDR2 667 MHz PC2-5300 ECC (FB - fully buffered) DIMM and should have an Apple approved or equivalent heat sink.
    Both machines require RAM be installed in pairs. For best performance in the Mac Pro RAM should be installed in quads.
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  • Intel-Based 08 Aluminum iMac(2.44 ghz) Ram upgrade issues...

    I bought 4 gigs of ram from newegg (2x2gb sticks). When I put them both in, the computer just wont boot. The fan goes on, the screen remains black, and the fan stops in a few seconds. When I tried another configuration, a new ram stick (2gb) and the old one(1gb), the computer boots up perfectly and shows me that I have 3 gb of ram. Also, I tried this configuration with both sticks of 2gb ram so i think this issue is not related to the new ram. The ram I bought was:
    Kingston 4GB (2 x 2GB) DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Memory For Apple iMac Model KTA-MB800K2/4G
    I made sure that my EFI was up to date and im running 10.5.5
    Thanks
    Message was edited by: Meshal

    Meshal wrote:
    I tried all 4 ram sticks in both slots and even tried switching the ram sticks around. I did clean them though. The computer will only boot up with a new 2gb ram stick and an old 1 gb ram stick. I think its something with the computer rather than the ram sticked themselves.
    Yeah I'm with Dennis on this one. It sounds like you are using the wrong memory. Symptoms are similar to what this user had: http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=8230546#8230546
    I use Kingston in my imac and they work perfectly fine if you buy the correct ones. Been using them for years.

  • IMac RAM upgrade: 2+2+8+0 Is it possible?

    Hi all,
    I would like to upgrade my iMac mid 2011 (21.5" - iMac 12,1), adding a module of 8GB of RAM to the original configuration (2+2).
    I've been searching for a similar case here but I had no luck. All the questions I found were about adding a couple of modules, but my intention is to leave a free slot just in case I need it in the future for 8 GB more. Otherwise I would have to remove the original 2+2 modules, loosing them in the final configuration (4+4+4+4 instead of 2+2+8+8).
    Is that possible? Theoretically, reading this Apple support entry memory modules should be of the nonparity type, so leaving one empty slot, we will lose the dual channel feature, but it should work fine, right?
    Furthermore, if I install a 1600MHz memory module instead of the 1333MHz type that Apple specifies, would there be any problem? (I asume that, if I finally instal another 8GB module, it should be exactly the same type, so both should be 1600MHz modules)
    Thank you so much in advance,
    JC

    You have an iMac. There are no modules with heat sinks for your computer. That would be for Mac Pros.
    The performance issue is dependent upon what you are doing. When a task involves the use of memory, predominantly, then dual-channel can bring a substantial increase in memory performance. But not for everything.
    As for the speed. There are substantial differences in 1600 and 1333 MHz modules that can affect whether they will even work.
    Your iMac uses the same type of DIMM as laptops use. They are 204 pin SO-DIMMS, DDR3.
    Look for the proper product at:
    OWC
    DataMem
    Crucial.com

  • Macbook Pro 4.1 RAM Upgrade Issues

    Hello Apple Community. I recently decided to upgrade the RAM on my macbook pro 4.1 (15", early 2008, 2.5 GHz). I purchased and installed 4gb of Mushkin memory (2x2GB PC2-5300 SODIMM), and the computer booted up just fine. When I go to "About this Mac", it still shows 2GB of RAM, 2x1GB. When I click on "More Info" the same holds true while specifically looking at the memory. For some reason my computer is reading each 2GB card as a 1GB card.
    Any suggestions as to what may be the issue?
    Thank you in advance.
    PS. I've been searching forums and the web for the past 2hrs in hopes of finding an answer.

    Okay, I will try this out. Previously I had done something similar to that which you suggested, which leads me to think that the RAM possibly could've been mislabeled and I was given 2GB (2x1GB RAM). I took one stick out and booted up the computer and my mac really took its time starting up. When I checked the "About this Mac" section it now said 1GB of RAM. I'll try again with both cards, but it looks like I will be sending them both back for replacements.

  • IMac RAM upgrade questions

    I have Intel iMac bought in 2008. 2GB RAM. Looking to add to it. I watched a few video's on YouTube and it looks easy enough. The video says two 1GB cards are $110 and I see them on eBay for $30 so wondering if anyone knows the best place to buy this and can confirm what type I need to buy.
    Any info on this would help make me doing this myself much easier. Thanks! - Nick

    Check out Other World Computing or Crucial.com or NewEgg for reliable memory sticks at excellent prices. These sites also have specific instructional videos on how to replace the memory sticks. If you take your time and are very careful, it might take all of 20 minutes. I upgraded mine with no problems at all. It involved unscrewing a plate on the bottom of your iMac, pulling a couple of tabs to remove the old memory and then inserting the new ones.
    Just make sure to check with the vendor on the match of the memory to your specific iMac.

  • Ram Upgrade Issues:  Mid 2009 Macbook Pro 2.53GHz

    I recently upgraded my Macbook Pro RAM from the native 4G  (2x2G modules) to 8Gb (2x4G modules).  Restarting didn't seem to create any issues, everythig was zipping along, and all appeared well.  A few minutes into basic navigating the screen dimmed and I was prompted to restart?!  I restarted and all seemed well again.  BUT, when I opened my browser (didn't matter which one) it would prompt me sixty seconds later that the application "crashed" and I needed to restart it (I-photo, I-tunes, etc. - didn't matter) NEXT UP - I would get get kicked out of applications that I had to Log into (Gmail, on-line banking, etc.) Each time the screen would dim like a shade was being pulled and I would be prompted to restart?!  I replaced the 2 - 2G modules and all is well again.  The memory was purchased from a reputable vendor and the specs. were all matched. ****I have not had the opportunity to run any Apple Hardware tests yet - I was hoping that maybe someone else had similar issues?!  Any ideas and info. are greatly appreciated!!!!!!
    Currently running Lion (unhappily... - but at least the 8G made the rainbow wheel spin faster!!)
    Thanks!
    TL

    try a PRAM reset next time you install the memory.
    also make sure your system sees it. simply go to  upper left corner, about this mac. it'll tell you how much ram your computer is reading.
    Contact that vendor about your issue.

  • RAM Upgrade Issues

    I recently went through the motions of upgrading my mid-2007 24" iMac from 2gb to 4gb. The problem however is that my computer wont start up with both new sticks, only when one original (1gb) and one new (2gb) are present. Ive tried both bay combinations, and it will start if the 1gb is in either bay, and one 2gb vice versa- however when both bays have 2gb each, I only recieve a blank screen (though I can feel the hard drive spinning).
    Is there a solution Im missing?
    Thanks,
    VM

    There are only three possible things wrong:
    Incorrect RAM (verify the specifications)
    Unseated RAM (remove and reseat per Apple's instructions)
    Failed RAM (yes RAM can and does fail)
    If you happened to have used Kingston's Value RAM that is probablematic too on  your vintage machine. Spend the money and buy higher quality RAM such as OWC (www.macsales.com) or Crucial. While most others sometimes it's not worth trying to save a buck.

  • 8770w - 32GB RAM upgrade issues

    Hi there, I just upgraded my RAM memory on my 8770w from 16GB to 32GB using corsair Vengeance CMSX16GX3M2B2133C11 and  was really hard to my laptop to recognize the whole memory and when it got it. after several minutes i always get the bluescreen with different kind of errors... i already used the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI and the RAM memory is good. and i already updated the BIOS. but the same result.
    Any help please?
    I'll really appreciate
    Thanks

    Hi,
    Definitely compatibility issue. Please use the following site to scan your machine. It will tell you exactly what you need and compare with RAM you bought.
        http://www.crucial.com/usa/en/systemscanner
    To give better result, please only use the original RAM when scan.
    Regards.
    BH
    **Click the KUDOS thumb up on the left to say 'Thanks'**
    Make it easier for other people to find solutions by marking a Reply 'Accept as Solution' if it solves your problem.

  • IMac RAM upgrade - Problem with PC2-6400S-666?

    Hi, everyone -
    I updgraded my iMac5,1 (according to specs found here) to 3GB RAM. Ordered the modules from Other World Computing. After installing the RAM (and reseating it numerous times) I received repeated kernel panics. (The Mac would "see" the memory as 3GB, and would run fine for a few hours, then kernel panic.)g
    I have isolated the problem to the 1GB module that OWC sent me: If I replace the OEM memory that came with the Mac, it runs fine. If I run it with just the 2GB module from OWC, it runs fine. Whenever I install the 1GB module, I run into trouble.
    During this process, I noticed that OWC had shipped me a 2GB module (OWC-branded, PC5300 DDR2 667MHz 200 Pin, which matches the Apple-recommended spec), but the 1GB module is (Samsung) 2Rx16 PC2-6400S-666-12-A3.
    OWC is trying to tell me that this Samsung module - which they substituted because they were apparently out of stock on the 1GB OWC PC5300 modules like I ordered - has firmware that will enable it to work with my machine, but obviously for whatever reason it does not. Perhaps it is simply defective, but I am trying to get them to send me a 1GB module that matches the 2GB module (OWC, PC5300, etc) just because I am more comfortable having the modules be the same spec. (Plus, that's what I ordered; a 3GB kit that was supposed to include all one type of memory.)
    Has anyone experienced problems running PC2-6400S memory in their iMac? And do you think I am being reasonable to try and insist that they send me a 1GB module that is exactly the same type as the 2GB module? (Doesn't that theoretically minimize potential problems?)
    I have usually had pretty good experiences with OWC, but this has been frustrating (they have also been slow in responding to me, which is disappointing.)
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    Christina

    I would absolutely insist that they exchange the incorrect stick and ship what you ordered. They are usually very good, but maybe you just got a rep who was not in the best mood? In any case, at this point, having a trail in writing would be good, so send them an email and politely but firmly insist on the correct module.

  • IMac Ram upgrade, doesn't start up

    I just installed additional OWC RAM on my new iMac. Now the iMac doesn't start up unless I first disconnect/reconnect the power cord - every time. Once started the system sees the additional RAM and works just fine. Do I need to do some magic with PRAM? I did reset/repair permissions after initial installation.

    You're quite welcome. Glad to help
    Thank you for the update. I knew they'd take care of you. I've had a lot of good experiences with them. I have always found their customer service and support to be the best
    Let me know if you have other questions.
    P.S., if you'd like, go ahead and click the "Solved" or "Helpful" buttons on any of the posts if you feel they were helpful or adequately answered your question.

  • Ram Upgrade issues can't boot with 8 gb but can boot with 6gb?

    So my macbook pro already has 4 gb of ram, but i always heavily use my electronics, so i wanted to upgrade my ram. I bought the ram, it came in the mail, but when I tried it out, I got stuck on the white boot screen. The circle spinning got stuck.
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    Does anyone know whats wrong?
    Macbook Pro 13" (mid-2010)
    2.4 ghz Core 2 Duo
    4 gb ram
    250 gb HDD
    this is what i purchased:
    Click Here

    Ah okay, I only bought the mushkin brand because it was little cheaper.
    btw I uploaded a video so you can see my problem
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHm3HWMxt60&feature=g-upl&context=G27ac6bfAUAAAAA AAAAA

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