Second-generation iMac G5 power supply failures

As part of our iMac G5 special report, we covered a relatively widespread issue where the power supply on these machines fail, causing a variety of issues -- culminating in actual component failure.

Users experiencing these issues generally must replace one of two hardware components: the power supply, or the "mid-plane" assembly which consists of the motherboard and other circuitry. In most cases, users whose machines are still under warranty or AppleCare are able to quickly obtain replacement parts that resolve the issue.

Apple later announced the iMac G5 Repair Extension Program for Video and Power Issues -- which applies only to first generation iMac G5 computers that have video or power-related issues as a result of a specific component failure.

However, we've now received reports from some readers who have had power supply failure issues with second-generation iMac G5s that fall outside the range of serial numbers designated by Apple for the extended repair program.

MacFixIt reader Dan Corjulo writes:

"Last summer we purchased 39 second generation iMac G5's. About a month ago the first power supply failed. A few weeks later two more failed. Today the fourth failed. It's always the same scenario. The Mac simply shuts off in the middle of whatever a user is doing. We can reboot the Mac but it will shut off a few minutes later. In each case replacing the power supply fixes the issue. Apple suggested removing the cosmetic power cord cover but that had no effect. None of these iMac's fall under the serials numbers Apple lists for the iMac power supply warranty extension program. I believe this issue may be far more wide spread then Apple is aware of."

If you are experiencing the following symptoms with a second-generation iMac G5:

• Scrambled or distorted video
• No video
• No power (machine shuts off after a few minutes of use)

please let us know.

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