Mac Trouble
 

My neighborhood had a power outage. The computer (G4) was on (sleep mode)when it went out. I turned off the outlet strip power before the electricity came back on. Now that the electricity is back on my computer will not turn on. I press the button and the light temporarily comes on but turns off again when I release it. I hear no attempt of the copmputer to start up.

Anybody have any ideas about my predicament?

Thanks,
Mike

Sounds like something may have blown in your power supply. Some parts may be replaced with the "DIY Service" option - see:

http://www.apple.com/support/diy/faq/

There are also 3rd party places that sell things like power supplies - look at the ads in the back of MacWorld Magazine or do some Googling. Of course it could be something else as well. I'd make a "genius" appointment at the nearest Apple Store and bring it in, they can probably help you narrow down the problem and suggest the least expensive repair route.

Also, if you can document a problem from a power surge/outage you may be able to get some coverage from your utility company. Check to see what their policy is.

I hate to ask, but do you have the computer hooked up to a UPS?...

Thanks for the help Boyd.

I'll check out what you suggested as soon as I can.

You asked if I was hooked up to a UPS - I actually don't know what that is. What would be the problem if I was?

Mike

A UPS is an "uninterruptible power supply." Available at Costco under the name of Tripp-Lite or at other computer shops as "APS", etc.

It provides instant backup power in the event the power goes out in your neighborhood. Price is about $100 which is cheap insurance. Sudden power drops or sags can damage your computer and a UPS helps prevent it.

I've made it standard practice to connect all critical equipment to UPS's and have avoided problems over the years.

Two things could be wrong:

1) PMU needs resetting - the Power Management Unit. There's a little press-button on the motherboard. However, I'd not recommend, personally doing it.

2) One or both of the processors are fried.

In either case, I'd take it in for a service. I've had 4 G4s die this way after the big power cut the other year.

Graeme