Weird problems after System updates

Question

I downloaded updates for iTunes and Java earlier this week, and now I have some weird behavior going on with my iMac. I'm running 10.5.8 and Safari 5.0.2. When I'm using the computer the windows have started jumping around, moving from side to side, or one window moving to the front, then the back, by themselves. There is sometimes a noise...hard to explain, but sounds kind of like bom, bom, bom. It's happened before, but usually goes away with a restart. Not this time, though...
Anyone else had this problem, and/or hopefully able to suggest a fix?

Answer 1

Hi,
Rule out any problems with the startup disk since the software is "jumping around" ...
Insert your install disk and Restart, holding down the "C" key until grey Apple appears.
Go to Installer menu and launch Disk Utility.
(In Mac OS X 10.4 or later, you must select your language first from the installer menu)
Select your HDD (manufacturer ID) in the left panel.
Select First Aid in the Main panel.
(Check S.M.A.R.T Status of HDD at the bottom of right panel. It should say: Verified)
Click Repair Disk on the bottom right.
If DU reports disk does not need repairs quit DU and restart.
If DU reports errors Repair again and again until DU reports disk is repaired.
When you are finished with DU, from the Menu Bar, select Utilities/Startup Manager.
Select your start up disk and click Restart
While you have the Disk Utility window open, look at the bottom of the window. Where you see Capacity and Available. M*ake sure there is always 15% free space.*
If the startup disk is ok, might be a good idea to run the Apple Hardware Test considering the, "bom bom bom" sounds, instructions here.
Intel-based Macs: Using Apple Hardware Test
Carolyn