Ask Jacob

The 27″ iMac can use the Apple Mini-Displayport to VGA video adapter for use with VGA compatible projectors. You will also need a VGA display cable (see image below). Now, VGA may not always pass through plug-and-play information from the projector, so you might have to go through some configuration manually.

To do that, go to System Preferences > Displays > Detect Displays.

I hope this has been helpful for you.

Dennis Beaman
PowerMax Support

You are correct in that it’s indicating a RAM error. Three beeps, pause, etc. Now, often a RAM issue can be resolved by re-seating the RAM. This is because it may have been nudged around during shipping. To re-seat, you can remove and then re-insert the RAM.

I would also check that the environmental conditions in the location where it’s reporting the error have adequate airflow to keep the machine cool and ideally, not in prolonged direct sunlight. In cases were a RAM card has failed, it usually is a permanent failure. This scenario however, suggests that perhaps the card is not completely seated.

I hope this information has been helpful for you.

Dennis Beamen
Ask Jacob Team

I have a special fondness for the G5 iMac. One thing to check is to see if you have two drives installed in your old G4. It could be that you have a old drive or data drive installed as the Master drive in your G4. If that is the case, you may need to remove the none-booting drive and then try again. 9 times out of 10 that is the problem when you see that error.

- Jacob

Yes, the G4 iMacs can take an Airport card. Depending on the generation you can get an 802.11B card or an 802.11B/G card.

• If you have a 700 MHz or 800MHz processor you need a FastMac APP-0968 Wireless AirPort 802.11b Card.

• If you have a 1GHz to 1.25GHz processor you can get an Apple M8881LL/A AirPort Extreme Card.

It will install under the metal plate on the bottom of the iMac and is easy to do, just make sure to attache the built-in antenna cable after you slide it in the slot.

- Jacob

It is my understanding that the only appreciable impact of running a second display on a 27″ iMac is with the video cards GPU and VRAM. The VRAM will be split between the internal display and the external display.

The GPU will have to work almost twice as fast to redraw the screen. Your processor will be mostly unaffected except for the added overhead of managing that much more desktop space.

- Jacob

You can run the older 10.4 Mac OS on a partition of the drive if that computer originally was capable of running that OS. So if you have version of 10.4 that came with that iMac G5, you can install that on a partition or external hard drive. Then you just need to install Classic OS 9 support and you should be set.

I do this on a few test systems here, and have no problem bouncing from 10.4 to 10.5. Just use the Startup Disk System Preference to change which partition you want the Mac to boot from and restart.

Hope that helps,
- Jacob

The simple solution is to select the update listed and choose ignore update from the “Update” menu. Assuming your drivers are updated and working for you then it should not cause any problems to skip the update. This sometimes can happen when you download drivers from the manufactures site (in this case HP) and Apple tries to overwrite them with different versions that are not newer or older, just different software builds. This deference prevents the update from fully installing and does not record the newer version in Software Updates records.

I hope skipping it works for you.

- Jacob

The glass can be replaced easily, it is held on with magnets. However, there could be a problem if the bend in the case prevents the replacement of the glass. If the glass can not lay flat on the case, it may cause it to crack or let dust in. The glass for a 27 inch iMac should be $120-200 to replace but again the bent case is the X factor.

Bring it into a service shop for a better estimate of the work needed to get the glass replaced.

Hope this helps
- Jacob

If you must do this with the smaller screen iMacs, then you have to use a similar Vesa adapter but the stand will remain attached to the iMac. Pictures are available at the Vesa website with addition product information. They appear to have a pretty broad array of iMac mounts, so there is more than likely something that will fit your need.

Hope this helps
Jacob

Any SATA 3.5″ internal desktop hard drive will work fine. There is often a thermal sensor on the side of the old drive that will need to be pealed off and moved to the new drive.

You may also want to consider just getting an external FireWire base drive and use that to boot your Mac until you decide to upgrade. The Mac OS will run well off of an external drive, like this LaCie d2 Quadra.

If you’d like to replace that G5 iMac hard drive yourself, I’ve included Apple’s instructions below:

Hard Drive,17-inch Replacement Instructions

Tools Required
Use the screwdriver provided, or a Phillips #2 screwdriver, preferably with a magnetized tip Flat-blade screwdriver Screw tray or something equivalent to hold the screws.

Important Things to Know

1. All customer removable screws are brass colored. Do not remove screws unless they are brass colored, or you will void your warranty.
2. A magnetized “L”-shaped Phillips screwdriver is included with the replacement part.
3. Ground yourself when working on the computer. The procedure will show you how to ground yourself.
4. Do not pull on individual wires when disconnecting a part; pull on the connector.
5. Keep drinks and other liquids away from the area you are working on the iMac.
6. A screw chart is attached at the end of this document. Use the chart to identify screw type and screw locations.

Opening the Computer

1. Note: These instructions cover the iMac G5 (17-inch) models. The models may look slightly different from one shown in the illustration; however, the following procedure applies to both models.
2. Turn your computer off by choosing Shut down from the Apple (K) menu. Disconnect all cables, and unplug the power cord from your computer.
3. Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or surface. Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face down as shown.
4. Locate the three silver case screws circled below. You may have to lift the stand to locate the middle case screw. Note: These screws are captive; they are part of the display/bezel assembly and cannot be removed.
5. Using the tool provided, or a Phillips #2 screwdriver, loosen the three captive screws. Turn the screws to the left until they stop turning. Don’t force the screws once they stop turning.
6. Holding the back cover by the metal stand, tilt the cover up and lift it off the computer. Set the back cover aside.

Removing the Hard Drive

1. To access the hard drive you must first remove other service modules. This procedure will show you how to remove and replace these modules. Note: As you remove each module, set it aside, along with the screws for that module.
2. Ground yourself. Touch the metal surface (as shown below) on the inside of the computer to discharge any static electricity.

Warning: Always discharge static electricity before you touch any parts or install any components inside the computer. To avoid generating static electricity, do not walk around the room until you have finished installing the part and closed the computer.

3. Locate the fan cover near the top of the computer.
4. Using the tool provided, or a Phillips #2 screwdriver, remove the two fan cover screws. Lift the fan cover off the computer and set the fan cover aside.
5. Move the black video cable (located to the left of the hard drive) out of the way to access a hard drive screw.
6. Remove the three hard drive screws. Set the screws aside.
7. Carefully lift the hard drive up, about one inch. Disconnect the three cables from the hard drive. Note: Leave the cables attached to the logic board.
8. Lift the hard drive out of the computer. Important: Return the hard drive to Apple in the packaging provided.

Installing the Replacement Hard Drive

1. Remove the replacement hard drive from its packaging. Connect the three cables (circled) to the hard drive.
2. Lower the hard drive into place and replace the three screws.
3. Tuck the black video cable into the area indicated by the arrows.
4. Press the video cable into the notch on the midplane chassis.
5. Replace the two fan cover screws. The larger screw attaches on the left. Note: Make sure the pull tab is sticking up as shown.

Closing the Computer

1. Replace the cover so that the slots on the top edge of the back cover mate with the tabs on the display housing.
2. Lower and press the cover into place until it fits snugly on the computer.
3. Tighten the three captive case screws by turning them to the right. Don’t overtighten the screws.
4. Reconnect the power cord while the computer is face down and then position the computer in the upright position. Proceed to the next topic, “Installing Software That Came With Your Computer.”

Reinstalling the Software That Came with Your Computer
Use the software install discs that came with your computer to install Mac OS X, the applications that came with your computer, and to install Mac OS 9.

Installing Mac OS X and Applications
To install Mac OS X and the applications that came with your computer, follow these steps:

1. Back up your essential files, if possible.
2. Insert the Mac OS X Install Disc 1 that came with your computer.
3. Double-click “Install Mac OS X and Bundled Software.”
4. Follow the onscreen instructions.
5. After selecting the destination disk for installation, continue following the onscreen instructions.Your computer may restart and ask you to insert the next Mac OS X Install disc 2.
   Note: If you want to restore Mac OS X on your computer to the original factory settings, click Options in the “Select a Destination” pane of the Installer, and then select “Erase and Install”.

Installing Applications
To install just the applications that came with your computer, follow the steps below. Your computer must have Mac OS X already installed.

1. Back up your essential files, if possible
2. Insert the Mac OS X Install disc 1 that came with your computer.
3. Double-click “Install Bundled Software Only.”
4. Follow the onscreen instructions.
5. After selecting the destination disk for installation, continue following the onscreen instructions.Your computer may restart and ask you to insert the next Mac OS X Install disc 2.
   Note: To install iCal, iChat AV, iMovie, iPhoto, iSync, iTunes, and Safari, follow the “Installing Mac OS X and Applications” instructions above.

Installing Mac OS 9
If you want to use Mac OS 9 applications with your computer, use the “Additional Software & Apple Hardware Test” disc to install Mac OS 9.
Follow these steps to install Mac OS 9:

1. Back up your essential files, if possible.
2. Insert the “Additional Software & Apple Hardware Test” disc.
3. Double-click “Install Additional Software.”
4. Follow the onscreen instructions.
5. After selecting the destination disk for installation, continue following the onscreen instructions.

Hope that helps!
- Jacob

In general Repair Extensions from Apple only last three years from the date of purchase.

It is possible that that it is just a failed power supply and those can be replaced. It would be best to have an Apple Authorized repair center look over the G5 iMac before swapping out parts though.

- Jacob

Despite the speed of you systems frontside bus, the RAM you can use is limited to what type of RAM slots you have. DDR2 RAM and DDR3 RAM are not interchangeable and unfortunately there in no way to use the faster RAM in your system.

RAM speed should not be too much of a concern though. Your RAM is not the slowest part of your system, the hard drive is. Look at upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) to see noticeable performance increases.

- Jacob

It, almost certainly, wont work at USB 2.0 speeds. You will need to buy a new USB 2.0 compliant hub. Consider this D-Link USB hub. You can still use the old USB hub for USB 1.1 devices like your mouse and keyboard.

- Jacob

As you probably know now, it can cause many serious issues when you adjust Mac file permissions in bulk. Many files in your 20″ iMac needs special permissions to function properly in the operating system. Only adjust file permissions if you have a specific need to do so, and only on one file at a time.

As for restoring your applications to their original state. Often the OS discs that come with new Macs have the ability to install the included applications. On the Mac OS X Install Disc 1, sometimes contained in a “Optional Installs” folder, that is the installer you need. Double-click “Install Mac OS X and Bundled Software” and follow the onscreen instructions.

That should get you back to the version of iLife that shipped with your system.

- Jacob

I am happy you asked before trying it. Mini sized CDs or DVD s should never be used in any slot-loading drive. This is true for Apple computers and car stereos. Really they are a terrible idea and should have never been produced. Currently only tray based drives will accept them, and the tray has to have a special indent to keep the small disc centered.

This idea came out of the initial high cost of creating a full sized CD. Now that cost is pennies so making it smaller does not reduce the cost appreciably. The best way to get data off those disc, is to find a tray loading drive and transfer the data to a USB thumb drive or full sized CD-R.

Many service techs has had to extract those little discs from a drive, at great expense.

- Jacob

I mostly recommend the MCE drives for do-it-yourself drive upgrades. If you have a none-Sony branded drive in there now, you will just need this G5 MCE internal drive upgrade.

But if you have a Sony drive, the drive standoffs will not fit the new MCE drive and you will need to buy replacement standoffs. Part number 922-6305, Screw M3×3, Hex, Pkg. of 4, will need to be ordered for the drive. Call into the sales line if you have a Sony Super Drive and need the new standoffs.

- Jacob

Although I have not tried it myself, it should work. When ordering Apple service parts for your system it notes the compatible machines as:

iMac (17-inch Late 2006), iMac (24-inch), Mac Pro, iMac (20-inch Late 2006)

You should be fine, just note that it is a very extensive repair that requires the removal of the front casing and shielding. Also the antenna connectors are fragile so work lightly.

Good luck!
- Jacob

There should be a built in Mic in the iMac computer you bought. If you go to the Sound section of System Preferences, you should see an Input tab. Select “Internal microphone” from the input options list and check the levels. Skype should pick up from the Mac’s internal sound system, but you may need to adjust the Skype sound preferences as well.

If after that you still need an external Mic, most USB options will be plug and play. The Cyber Acoustic Desktop Mic is a good choice.

- Jacob

You best option is to boot up off your OS X Leopard install disc and do an Archive and Install of the Mac OS. It will not overwrite your personal data, just the broken System files. Apple provides more information on Archive and Install as well.

Although 512MB is the minimum for 10.5, you should add another 1GB stick of RAM. I find that 2GB of RAM is perfect size for the Mac OS X 10.5 system.

- Jacob

The white plastic Intel iMacs can accept 3GBs of RAM via one 1GB chip and one 2GB RAM chip.
And in case you just want to max out the RAM, here is the link to a 1 GB chip.

- Jacob

I am happy you asked before trying it. Mini sized CDs or DVDs should never be used in any slot-loading drive. This is true for Apple computers and car stereos. Really they are a terrible idea and should have never been produced. Currently only tray-based drives will accept them, and the tray has to have a special indent to keep the small disc centered.

This idea came out of the initial high cost of creating a full sized CD. Now that cost is pennies so making it smaller does not reduce the cost appreciably. The best way to get data off those disc, is to find a tray loading drive and transfer the data to a USB thumb drive or full sized CD-R.

Many service techs has had to extract those little discs from a drive, at great expense.

- Jacob

Often this issue is caused by a preference change in your Apple computer. Click once on the Desktop and then select “Preferences” from the Finder menu. Under the General tab mark all the checkboxes in the “Show these items on Desktop” section.

- Jacob

Here is a handy little list of user recorded Mac system temperatures assembled to help others determine what is normal temperature for their Mac.

From the list, it looks like your iMac is in the proper range. As for RAM upgrades, you can go up to 3 GBs if you have a white plastic iMac or 4 GB if you have an Aluminum iMac released before 2009. Depending on what iMac you have, you can buy one or two of these 2GB stick. You only have 2 RAM slots so you will have to remove one stick of 1GB RAM for each 2GB stick of RAM you add.

The newest iMac introduced in 2009 can take up to 8GB of RAM using a 4GB RAM stick, but I would guess you do not have this version of the iMac.

- Jacob

Well the first step in troubleshooting a ADC monitor is to remove and then reinstall the video card. Believe it or not just reseating a video card can help. I assume these are LCD based Apple 17″ Displays, if they are CRT displays, then there are a host of issues that follow the CRT models. First the CRT models will not run off DVI to ADC adapters, and second the CRT models draw so much power it can be under powered on on many ADC video cards.

If the problem is with the LCD ADC display, then it may be a USB problem inside the display. When using the DVI to ADC converter, try not connecting the USB plug to see if that has any effect. Also make sure the computer is directly connected to the wall outlet. That should eliminate under powering issues.

Let me know how that works out,
- Jacob