Chosen Solution
Hello, Having a problem with my imac. Happens to randomly lose power ie as if plug has been pulled out. i have ruled out software issues, harddrive issues, ram issues and overheating. Thinking that it may be the power supply, any ideas?
I think you need to walk the powers pathway from your breaker panel to the outlet and to your system. Your symptoms sound more like a power issue outside of the system. Make sure you have a 20 Amp breaker on the line and ideally limit the amount of devices (other than your computer gear) that share the line. Make sure the breaker panel is properly grounded. There should be a heavy gage wire (green covering) from the panel to a grounding rod or copper water line exiting the building. Make sure the clamps are not green with oxide or corrosion. At the other end at your outlet using a 3 pronged outlet tester make sure the outlet is properly wired (with a 3 hole outlet). I would recommend replacing the surge outlet strip and you might consider getting a good UPS. The last piece is the line cord to the back of your system they do go bad. You can use the standard IEC320 C13 to NEMA 5-15P cord to test things out and then order a new cord from Apple if you want the full strain relief the Apple cord offers. Depending on were you are located power companies do offer power meters to test for a week or so your power. It records any deviations so you can see what is needed.
