The Apple iMac G5 is a beautiful computer, as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional. The sleek curves and floating screen make it one of the sexiest desktop computers ever made. However one of the more common problems that's been found with it is a faulty power supply. This problem was so common in fact that up until December 2008 Apple had a replacement program where you could return your computer and have it repaired for free. Unfortunately this program was discontinued. But no need to worry;it's simple enough to replace it yourself.
Instructions
1. Turn off your computer by going to the menu and choosing shut down. Disconnect the power cable and unplug all of the other cables from your computer. Place a soft cloth or blanket on a desk and gently lay the computer face down on top of it being careful not to scratch the monitor.
2. Locate three screws on the bottom edge of the monitor near the foot of the computer. Using the Phillips head, turn the screws to the left until they stop. Do not force them once they stop turning. These screws are not designed to be removed, only to be loosened. Holding the foot of the computer, gently tilt the monitor cover up until it opens. Do not force it
3. Ground yourself by touching a metal surface either on the edge of your computer or on the desk. Do not touch the mother board of the computer until you have grounded yourself. The power supply is located at the bottom of the screen closest to the foot of the computer. It is in the center.
4. Loosen the two brass colored screws located on the corners of the power supply by turning them to the left. Again these screws are not to be removed, only loosened. Loosen the middle screw of the power supply by turning it to the left. This is also designed to stay in and should be loose enough that you are able to remove the power supply unit.
5. Remove the ambient light sensor by disconnecting the cable at the top of the unit by wriggling it free from the mother board. Note that not all units have this feature so if it's not there don't worry about it.
6. Unscrew the screw from the bottom of the monitor casing using the phillips. This screw turns clockwise. Using the flat head screwdriver, loosen the power supply connection and wriggle it free with your fingers. Do not pull on the cables, but rather pull on the plastic connector itself.
7. Lift the power unit out of the casing and slowly wriggle it free. It should pop right out.
Take the new supply of its packaging. If your computer doesn't use an ambient light sensor then you will need to remove it using your fingers or a flat head screwdriver. If it does, then leave it on and reconnect it once you have the unit installed.
8. Lower the power supply into place the same way you removed the old one. It should be fairly obvious which way it goes but the squared side points towards the top while the rounded bottom is near the bottom of the computer.
9. Connect the ambient light sensor back into its power supply if you have one. Tighten the brass colored screws on the corners turning them to the right. Then tighten the center screw also turning to the right. At the bottom of the monitor casing you will tighten another screw turning counter clockwise.
10. Close the computer casing by pushing the top portion back into alignment with the upper tabs and locking them together. Lower the bottom half of the casing down until it is flush with the rest of the case and tighten the screws on the bottom by turning them to the right. Reconnect the cables and electrical plug and set the computer up right and you are finished.
Tags: power supply, your computer, ambient light, ambient light sensor, foot computer