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firmware

Possible failed Firmware update

Hi Scotty,

My Mac froze and will not reboot. This is what I have on screen and it’s been like this for 15 minutes.


Screen Shot 2014-04-26 at 10.38.39 PM
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This is never a good thing. Usually that progress bar means that a firmware update was in progress. If the firmware update failed (which is likely) then it’s going to be difficult to recover. Not impossible. My guess is that the hard drive is ok however, the operating system OS X has developed a problem. You could try booting in Safe Mode by restarting the computer (holding down the power button for around 7 seconds then the computer will cut off). Then, while restarting, hold down the shift key. This may give you temporary access to your data. However, if this is indeed a failed firmware update, more drastic steps will need to be taken. I should be able to better assess what has happened in person. Schedule a session the problem persists.

One other note, if this is your white 27” iMac, then you may want to start consider replacing that computer as well. I’m sure you are backing up to an external hard drive with Time Machine. Right?!!! If not, the drive may still be ok and we may be able to recover the data off the drive if there’s no back up. I just don’t want to see you invest too much money in an aging computer. Feel free to email me with any other questions.
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