The New iMac Display Problem?

[Shaun.P]

Hello all,

I have documented this in another thread but I thought it would be better to dedicate a thread to this "problem".

I bought a new entry level iMac the other day. At night, before putting the computer to sleep, I often put the brightness of my screen all the way down to 1 notch so that when I wake the computer up in the burning the display doesn't burn my eyes.

So, I did this with the new iMac. When I woke up in the morning to check my email, the computer came out of sleep fine, but the display was flickering. As if it was pulsing between a brighter brightness level and a duller one.

The problem continued when I increased the brightness to 2 and 3 notches, but seemed to disappear after that. I have been able to recreate the problem many times (it is not intermittent) and it is also noticeable if you shut the computer down on 1 brightness notch and start the computer up a few seconds later.

I PM'ed someone in this forum who bought the very same computer as me and he was able to recreate this "problem". I was wondering if all of the new 21.5" and 27" iMac users could try the following:



Put your computer brightness down to 1 notch.
Put the computer to sleep.
Wait about 30 seconds.
Wake the computer up from sleep, and focus on some part of the screen.
Does it flicker? Does it disappear when you increase the brightness level?


I don't know if this problem is that major as I very rarely use my machine on such a low brightness level, but in the morning, when you've just woke up even the 1 notch of brightness can seem exceptionally bright!

Let me know if you can recreate this problem on your new iMac. I think it could have something to do with the new LED backlit display.

Thanks in advance,

Shaun.

[300D]

Its the pulse width modulation of the LEDs. The time between the on/off cycles needed for that level of brightness is so long that the human eye can detect it.

[Aven SkyGazer]

Its the pulse width modulation of the LEDs. The time between the on/off cycles needed for that level of brightness is so long that the human eye can detect it.

So is this the same on every new iMac? Just wondering because I am very acute to color change and this would definitely wiegh on my comfort.

[300D]

Depends on how many LED it has, the iFixit teardown didn't day how many are there. If it has a lot of them to brighten the big screen evenly they would have to be powered pretty low to get dull but even light.
Smaller devices (like the iPhone) probably don't have the issue because they have few LEDs.

[hotel.juliette]

Hello,

I've just gotten the 21.5" iMac and it was last night when I noticed the flickering you described above. Indeed it does happen only in low brightness. In fact, it stops flickering when I increase the brightness to 6 bars/levels.

I may have found a software fix for this. It's called Shades (http://www.charcoaldesign.co.uk/shades) which is free to use. Basically, it's a software that controls the brightness of your screen independently of the OS X's brightness settings.

What I did was turned up the system brightness to maximum, then used Shade's settings to turn down the brightness to a comfortable level. See if this works for you.

Haziq

[Aven SkyGazer]

Its the pulse width modulation of the LEDs. The time between the on/off cycles needed for that level of brightness is so long that the human eye can detect it.

my brightness is always set between 1 and 3 notches. if the flickering is as common and noticable as previously posted, I will never be able to enjoy this brand new toy.

[Shaun.P]

Hi again,

If the display has been on for a while and I reduce the brightness down, the problem does not occur, it is only when the machine was woken from sleep or startup.

I don't think I'm going to ask for a replacement - it is probably software, and this machine is working perfectly fine except for that small annoying problem!

I love the iMac and I'm sure this isn't anything major to worry about.

[Jayrezzy]

On mine I am noticing that my screen is flickering with a line going across my screen. As if it is about to completely cut off, is this what everyone else is experiencing?

[vuemme]

Hi all,
on my new 27" I have probably a similar problem, but I cannot reproduce it yet. Randomly sometime the monitor start flickering and, in some cases, become black for some instants.
Until now I get the problem few minutes after startup (after a night with the imac shutdown).
Initially I was thinking it was an hardware problem, but if I restart the problem disappear.
What do you think about it? Do you think it could be a software problem?

UPDATE: I get the problem with brightness at about 7 notch (half)

Bye,

[appleguy123]

Its the pulse width modulation of the LEDs. The time between the on/off cycles needed for that level of brightness is so long that the human eye can detect it.

Does not happen on my 17" macbook pro.

[IMAKEAPPS]

Hey All,
This display issue is a real issue. It is a hardware issue. Mine was flickering no matter what I did. Also half my pixels came dead. I was really angry, but apple replaced my 27 inch imac. The new one has dust under the screen.

Thanks Steve Jobs.

[300D]

Does not happen on my 17" macbook pro.

Nobody ever said your model had the issue.

[J&JPolangin]

...The new one has dust under the screen.

Thanks Steve Jobs.

...get another replacement, he didn't build it = thank China and the US labor unions...

[Bryan Bowler]

...get another replacement, he didn't build it = thank China and the US labor unions...

Don't sweat it, this guy's a troll...

[Apple!Fre@k]

Nobody ever said your model had the issue.

LMAO! The random conversation of the day.

[maccauni]

Im not getting the flickering problem but i am getting another display problem.

My screen is not coming out of sleep basically. If I put it to sleep and wake it a few seconds later it comes on fine but if I leave the machine for a period of time and the display turns off by itself it wont turn when I press the mouse or keyboard. The imac is still running fine because my itunes still plays, its just the screen wont turn on. I get the same problem if I set the iMac to sleep at night and when I turn it on in the morning...black screen and have to reset with the power button.

This is with the base 27".

[Animalk]

I don't have an IMac but I have an anecdote that might help you.

Back when I first got my MBP (and was still in school), I noticed that the screen would flicker only in a particular classroom. I would always have my brightness to a minimum as to conserve battery power.

I turned off the auto-brightness sensor in (System Preferences -> Display) and it stopped flickering. It seems the lighting in the room was precisely on the threshold of the sensor.

Try it out on your new imacs and see if it solves the flickering.

Good luck :)

[ntrigue]

my brightness is always set between 1 and 3 notches. if the flickering is as common and noticable as previously posted, I will never be able to enjoy this brand new toy.

You must compute in a photography dark room. :p

[littlelarry33]

Yeah I got the same problem but I usually keep my brightness high so its not an issue

[robotkiller]

I had a flickering problem with my 27" as well.

It was impossible to reproduce. I could work for hours on the computer and then suddenly it would flicker randomly with a band of horizontal static bars about 3 inches thick momentarily or, alternatively, it would black out for a fraction of a second. This could happen up to once every 5-10min.

My previous iMac 24" had a display freeze problem that was impossible to recreate and ended up being solved with a firmware update. Hopefully that's the case - it would be unusual for so many to have a common hardware malfunction, unless there is a fundamental design problem.

I noticed the problem within 24 hours of buying it, so I returned it to the Apple Store. After some time talking to the manager, the store was reasonable enough to accept it as a refund with no restocking fee despite being unable to reproduce the problem.

It's a shame, b/c the computer is so nice. I was considering getting the quad core, but if this is a more common problem, I may have to hold off. Dammit - I was hoping I just had a lemon. :(

[larzy]

I received the new iMac 27 before the weekend, and have spent many hours during the weekend to play with it, and transferring music and stuff from my old 24 iMac.

I've noticed that the screen sometimes flicker or show some weird glitches / graphic (sometimes purple - or white with a bunch of lines or weird graphic)... this happens sometimes when I play a youtube clip or in safari when I scroll or make a new tap - or does something where the image on the screen changes...

I'll try and see if I can capture it on video - but do you guys think its a software error, or the screen that might have a problem?

I've done a fresh install but the error still occurs from time to time.

I also have another question - about upgrading the RAM. I have two 2GB sticks I bought from Crucial for my Macbook Pro 13 - would it be okay to mix these with the current two x 2GB already in the new iMac?

[gombach]

Two and half days with new 27in -- screen flicker variable in frequency and intensity (usually white flashes pulsing across the screen). Today, went 8-10 hours without noticing it. However, as if in anticipation of reading this thread, it began happening, randomly.

I have a 24in Apple Display (DVI with adapter) running along side it in extended desktop mode. While this 5-year-old gem now looks dull and pale next to the 27-in glossy monitor, it nonetheless stays rock-solid during the bouts of flickering encountered on the IMac screen.

[Ganesha]

Two and half days with new 27in -- screen flicker variable in frequency and intensity (usually white flashes pulsing across the screen). Today, went 8-10 hours without noticing it. However, as if in anticipation of reading this thread, it began happening, randomly.

I have a 24in Apple Display (DVI with adapter) running along side it in extended desktop mode. While this 5-year-old gem now looks dull and pale next to the 27-in glossy monitor, it nonetheless stays rock-solid during the bouts of flickering encountered on the IMac screen.

I wonder if the pulse rate is more noticeable under fluorescent lights.

[C64]

Q about this problem: Is this purely hardware or something software-ish?

[iamweasel]

Well...this is disappointing im having this problem too, my screen is just randomly flickering. It doesn't always happen, not only that but the screen will randomly restart too. I have a video of it, ill post it soon.

[robotkiller]

Well Apple should at least be receiving my computer to dissect. Hopefully you all have called Apple tech support and let them know. It took months of bitching by end users before Apple would even acknowledge the last problem on the 24". To their credit, they took care of it with the firmware update.

I really hope this gets fixed soon. I WANT that quad core and the display is just so beautiful otherwise.

[iamweasel]

Heres the video guys. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjOxlxVz5Os

As you can see the screen just randomly restarts and throughout the video it randomly flickers, pretty big bands too.

After i took that video i restarted and it is now doing just fine, but this isnt the first time those problems happened.

I've already made an appointment with a Genius for Thurs, well see what they tell me.

[C64]

Heres the video guys. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjOxlxVz5Os

As you can see the screen just randomly restarts and throughout the video it randomly flickers, pretty big bands too.
Woah, that's pretty bad :eek:

[Animalk]

"flickering" would be a terrible understatement for that youtube video.:eek:

[robotkiller]

Heres the video guys. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjOxlxVz5Os

As you can see the screen just randomly restarts and throughout the video it randomly flickers, pretty big bands too.

After i took that video i restarted and it is now doing just fine, but this isnt the first time those problems happened.

I've already made an appointment with a Genius for Thurs, well see what they tell me.

That's exactly what happened with mine. Your iMac seems worse off, though. Good luck at the Apple store. Hope you are able to recreate it. I have a feeling my Apple store didn't completely believe me when I returned it.

[MWPULSE]

it does seem like a software related issue. If your having problems recreating it, take a relatively good quality vid of it flickering. Use that as a vague form of proof, or at least to prove the point that it does actually exist as an issue!
;-)

PTP

[sushiman]

Hello all,

I have documented this in another thread but I thought it would be better to dedicate a thread to this "problem".

I bought a new entry level iMac the other day. At night, before putting the computer to sleep, I often put the brightness of my screen all the way down to 1 notch so that when I wake the computer up in the burning the display doesn't burn my eyes.

So, I did this with the new iMac. When I woke up in the morning to check my email, the computer came out of sleep fine, but the display was flickering. As if it was pulsing between a brighter brightness level and a duller one.

The problem continued when I increased the brightness to 2 and 3 notches, but seemed to disappear after that. I have been able to recreate the problem many times (it is not intermittent) and it is also noticeable if you shut the computer down on 1 brightness notch and start the computer up a few seconds later.

I PM'ed someone in this forum who bought the very same computer as me and he was able to recreate this "problem". I was wondering if all of the new 21.5" and 27" iMac users could try the following:



Put your computer brightness down to 1 notch.
Put the computer to sleep.
Wait about 30 seconds.
Wake the computer up from sleep, and focus on some part of the screen.
Does it flicker? Does it disappear when you increase the brightness level?


I don't know if this problem is that major as I very rarely use my machine on such a low brightness level, but in the morning, when you've just woke up even the 1 notch of brightness can seem exceptionally bright!

Let me know if you can recreate this problem on your new iMac. I think it could have something to do with the new LED backlit display.

Thanks in advance,

Shaun.


Are the 21.5 displays having the same problem ? I'm about to switch from PC and am planning on getting a 21.5 .

[larzy]

http://gallery.me.com/larzy#100025

Here's my flicker...

I've just been on the phone with Apple support, and they've replacing it. They didn't think it was a software issue, as I reinstalled the system (dunno if they misunderstood me thinking it was due to some software I installed...?)

[avihappy]

http://gallery.me.com/larzy#100025

Here's my flicker...

I've just been on the phone with Apple support, and they've replacing it. They didn't think it was a software issue, as I reinstalled the system (dunno if they misunderstood me thinking it was due to some software I installed...?)

All of a sudden I don't feel like buying the new iMac anymore. This video scares the crap out of me. I really hope it isn't widespread! :(

[camgrant84]

Is all this flickering only on low brightness levels? Or high-->top level too?

Cheers

[larzy]

Is all this flickering only on low brightness levels? Or high-->top level too?

I run full brightness...

[camgrant84]

Graphics card issue? Which cards do you have?

[Kronie]

Yea, it looks like a graphics card issue or even a connection somewhere in the machine.

Hope they figure it out before they ship my 27"

[Custom56]

I have exactly the same problem. Bought it in Belgium 3 days ago. I have the bands running around my screen and also the "screen shutdowns" that all of you are experiencing.

What do you guys think? Hard or software related? Return it or hold on for some time.

[faxao]

If the problem is so serious I would return it.

I am currently holding off my 27" order to better understand what is going on with the new screens/GPUs......:confused:

[sushiman]

So much for " it just works . "

I'm having serious seconds thoughts about making the switch from PC . Too many QC and other problems cropping up with these new iMacs .

[MH01]

Holy cow, at first when i read this i thought the flickering would be small and hard to notice. Looking at those videos it is completely unacceptable. I was about to order a new 27" with an i7, think i will hold off to see how this resolves. This looks like a hardware issue, and not something that a simple firmware upgrade will fix. Not so sure its a GPU issue, when GPUs start failing you usually get artifacts, i have not had a GPU flicker like that.

Just remember that you have 14 days to return it, some of you guys with really bad flickering might want to do that. The youtube video is an horrific example of this :(

Thanks again for all you guys that got the new 27" screens straight away and are doing some awesome beta testing. Hopefully by the time the i7s come out it will all be sorted.

Actually, have any of you guys got another PC/mac etc that you can hook upto the 27" to run it just as a display? This way you would remove the imac GPU from the equation. It would be best if someone that is suffering from this flickering could try this.

[Custom56]

After i rebooted my machine, the problems have stopped (for now)...

I'll keep you posted.

I also opened up a post on the Apple forums. Feel free to contribute.

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2212682&tstart=0

[robotkiller]

Holy cow, at first when i read this i thought the flickering would be small and hard to notice. Looking at those videos it is completely unacceptable. I was about to order a new 27" with an i7, think i will hold off to see how this resolves. This looks like a hardware issue, and not something that a simple firmware upgrade will fix. Not so sure its a GPU issue, when GPUs start failing you usually get artifacts, i have not had a GPU flicker like that.

Just remember that you have 14 days to return it, some of you guys with really bad flickering might want to do that. The youtube video is an horrific example of this :(

Thanks again for all you guys that got the new 27" screens straight away and are doing some awesome beta testing. Hopefully by the time the i7s come out it will all be sorted.

Actually, have any of you guys got another PC/mac etc that you can hook upto the 27" to run it just as a display? This way you would remove the imac GPU from the equation. It would be best if someone that is suffering from this flickering could try this.

If this is a hardware issue, this will be very prevalent and could warrant a recall. It will be interesting to see if people with upgraded cards or quad cores have this problem.

This thread should be a sticky. It's the only one on any forum discussing this problem...

[robotkiller]

After i rebooted my machine, the problems have stopped (for now)...

I'll keep you posted.

I also opened up a post on the Apple forums. Feel free to contribute.

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2212682&tstart=0

Good idea. I'll repost my experience on there too.

[Custom56]

I've been working on the iMac all morning now, and I have yet to see another flicker after my last mentioned reboot.

Fingers crossed, dont want to return it, just yesterday sold my old PC :-)

Maybe it is a overheating problem. I've had similar issues with my old windows machine just before my vid-card (ATI X1900 series) died.

When i had the problems the back and top of my machine were VERY hot. I've reduced the screen brightness and now its running a lot cooler.

[Shaun.P]

The flickering was really starting to bother me, so I returned the iMac for a replacement.

The replacement did not have the flicker problem, but it had a new problem:

A high pitched, high frequency noise almost like a dog whistle. The tone of the noise changes when you change the screen brightness. The noise disappears at full brightness and low brightness but anywhere in the middle there was this high pitched shrill.

Apple Support Forum Posting from other consumers. (http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2209558&tstart=0)

I embarrassingly returned it, and the new one has the same problem but not as bad - despite the fact that the guy I spoke to done an instore setup of my machine and declared it had no noise.

This is a high pitched noise and very obvious when you change the screen brightness. I cannot work with the noise as it is extremely high pitched so much so that it's a relief to turn the computer off.

I am completely embarrassed to go back into the store AGAIN but I want my money back. Can I phone AppleCare and get them to pick it up from my house? [I'm in the UK] The store is a 70 mile round trip + parking costs each time. It would save me time, money and feeling embarrassed.

This being my third iMac has completely taken the joy out of purchasing a new machine, despite the iMac being perfect for my needs.

I am considering going back to the old setup I had before: My 13" MBP connected to a 22" Dell monitor, mStand and Apple Keyboard.

I will say one thing - in all three iMac's I've went through the Magic Mouse has worked perfectly on all of them, and I'd really recommend the mouse to anyone.

[The Samurai]

21.5" base model - no flickering issues here.

Shaun - you could phone up the Apple store or Customer Relations (02082181000 - Apple HQ, tell them to transfer you to customer relations). Explain to them that its too far away.

EDIT: although i am having the noise issue.

[Ride9650]

The flickering was really starting to bother me, so I returned the iMac for a replacement.

The replacement did not have the flicker problem, but it had a new problem:

A high pitched, high frequency noise almost like a dog whistle. The tone of the noise changes when you change the screen brightness. The noise disappears at full brightness and low brightness but anywhere in the middle there was this high pitched shrill.

Apple Support Forum Posting from other consumers. (http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2209558&tstart=0)

I embarrassingly returned it, and the new one has the same problem but not as bad - despite the fact that the guy I spoke to done an instore setup of my machine and declared it had no noise.

This is a high pitched noise and very obvious when you change the screen brightness. I cannot work with the noise as it is extremely high pitched so much so that it's a relief to turn the computer off.

I am completely embarrassed to go back into the store AGAIN but I want my money back. Can I phone AppleCare and get them to pick it up from my house? [I'm in the UK] The store is a 70 mile round trip + parking costs each time. It would save me time, money and feeling embarrassed.

This being my third iMac has completely taken the joy out of purchasing a new machine, despite the iMac being perfect for my needs.

I am considering going back to the old setup I had before: My 13" MBP connected to a 22" Dell monitor, mStand and Apple Keyboard.

I will say one thing - in all three iMac's I've went through the Magic Mouse has worked perfectly on all of them, and I'd really recommend the mouse to anyone.

WOW, imacs too? I went through a heck of a lot of trouble getting a new macbook pro because of that EXACT issue.

I don't know how it works in the UK but I don't see why they wouldn't take it back, however, given that it is noise related and at a frequency that a telephone mic will likely not pickup(believe me I've tried) you might have trouble convincing them and they might want you to go into a store anyways. Thats what the US Applecare people wanted me to do.

Sorry about all the trouble you're having with your computer!

[Shaun.P]

21.5" base model - no flickering issues here.

Shaun - you could phone up the Apple store or Customer Relations (02082181000 - Apple HQ, tell them to transfer you to customer relations). Explain to them that its too far away.

EDIT: although i am having the noise issue.

On the phone to AppleCare as we speak. He keeps putting me on hold to speak to his supervisor. 28 minutes on the phone so far...

EDIT: Been passed over to someone else. I've been told they can't pick the machine up I need to take it back to the store. I've told the person that they can't seriously expect me to go back to the store for the fourth time. I've asked for compensation if they are actually asking me to do that. I'm on hold while the advisor speaks to relations.

40 minutes so far...

[The Samurai]

On the phone to AppleCare as we speak. He keeps putting me on hold to speak to his supervisor. 28 minutes on the phone so far...

Cool, do keep us updated.

Do be persistent, tell him that the store is too far away and that unless they cover for travel expenses... you won't be leaving the house. Tell him that this is the 2nd machine and direct him to the Apple support forums where people are reporting similar symptoms.

Good luck

[BelowTheBelt]

I am now pondering the cancel button on my order status.........

Boy I hope the i7's do not have this problem

[robotkiller]

On the phone to AppleCare as we speak. He keeps putting me on hold to speak to his supervisor. 28 minutes on the phone so far...

EDIT: Been passed over to someone else. I've been told they can't pick the machine up I need to take it back to the store. I've told the person that they can't seriously expect me to go back to the store for the fourth time. I've asked for compensation if they are actually asking me to do that. I'm on hold while the advisor speaks to relations.

40 minutes so far...

They should be at least able to email you a shipping label

[Shaun.P]

Call ended - 52 minutes. I was blindly put through the customer relations after being on the phone for 45 minutes. They cannot pick up the machine - I have to take it back to the store. He is contacting the Buchanan Street Apple Store on my behalf and is looking into compensation. He is going to contact me tomorrow morning.

I really don't have much faith that he will call me back, but I have a Case ID number.

Cool, do keep us updated.

Do be persistent, tell him that the store is too far away and that unless they cover for travel expenses... you won't be leaving the house. Tell him that this is the 2nd machine and direct him to the Apple support forums where people are reporting similar symptoms.

Good luck


Third machine! I drove to Glasgow and back twice yesterday! Roughly 150 miles + £6 parking costs + 4-5 hours wasted time. I am really, really disappointed.

EDIT: Just received a phone-call. He's already contacted the store. It is no problem at all to take it back. Once it has been returned he will contact me with regards to compensation.

[MH01]

Call ended - 52 minutes. I was blindly put through the customer relations after being on the phone for 45 minutes. They cannot pick up the machine - I have to take it back to the store. He is contacting the Buchanan Street Apple Store on my behalf and is looking into compensation. He is going to contact me tomorrow morning.

I really don't have much faith that he will call me back, but I have a Case ID number.




Third machine! I drove to Glasgow and back twice yesterday! Roughly 150 miles + £6 parking costs + 4-5 hours wasted time. I am really, really disappointed.

EDIT: Just received a phone-call. He's already contacted the store. It is no problem at all to take it back. Once it has been returned he will contact me with regards to compensation.

Its probably best that you give the 4th one a miss and wait a month or so while the iron our these issues. I have returned 3 MBP is the past, the worst this about it was that they were blatant defects and should have never got past QA.

I was really keen on the 27" now disappointed that hey rushed it out the door to spoil win 7 launch, damn it, the i7 model seem perfect for my current needs.

[Kronie]

I am now pondering the cancel button on my order status.........

Boy I hope the i7's do not have this problem

Your not alone, believe me.

[sharkync]

Sounds like there are some real serious issues under the smooth glass-to-glass gloss that Ives describes.

[MH01]

I am now pondering the cancel button on my order status.........

Boy I hope the i7's do not have this problem

I am going to follow the forums here and see. Though would not expect a diff CPU to resolve display issues. Fingers crossed they can have a Rev2 ready for when the i7s come out, though i doubt it, it could mean a delay in the i7s though.

Already gutted that the 27 " Imac does not support video in that is not directly from a mini display port, so anyone going from DVi to mini display port through an adapter will have no joy. I hope that is not true for a HDMI to Mini displayport

[robotkiller]

I am going to follow the forums here and see. Though would not expect a diff CPU to resolve display issues. Fingers crossed they can have a Rev2 ready for when the i7s come out, though i doubt it, it could mean a delay in the i7s though.

Already gutted that the 27 " Imac does not support video in that is not directly from a mini display port, so anyone going from DVi to mini display port through an adapter will have no joy. I hope that is not true for a HDMI to Mini displayport

but the different video card in the quad cores may avoid this problem. Hopefully....

[ElPinko]

Have just been in the apple store on regent street and wanted to share my experience.

Had a play on the iMac 27" for about 15 minutes (was stealing charge for my iPhone at the same time) and during that time the screen flickered once, to best describe it a white bar shot horizontally across the middle of the screen. I also decided since these macs are on all day I'd give it a feel up, ice cold at the bottom (on the chin) roasting along the top with the top left corner being to hot too touch - I'll be looking for a teardown pic to see what lives at the top left. It was also noticably hot just to the right of the isight camera.

Would love more information on this as I'm planning to get the quadcore when it finally emerges...

[53x12]

Had a play on the iMac 27" for about 15 minutes (was stealing charge for my iPhone at the same time) and during that time the screen flickered once, to best describe it a white bar shot horizontally across the middle of the screen. I also decided since these macs are on all day I'd give it a feel up, ice cold at the bottom (on the chin) roasting along the top with the top left corner being to hot too touch - I'll be looking for a teardown pic to see what lives at the top left. It was also noticably hot just to the right of the isight camera.


Here you go: http://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/iMac-Intel-27-Inch/1236/2

[Kronie]

Top left looks to be the power supply? That would make sense.

"The power supply puts out 25.8 amps at 12 volts, for a total output of 310 watts. That's the biggest power supply we've seen in an iMac."
-Ifixit

[ElPinko]

Well it was hot. Like serious hot - as in I'd be concerned about my macs health hot - granted they're on all day but still. The glass itself covering the screen was carrying quite a temperature as well. And witnessing the screen flicker just makes me think its heat related even more.

[carrerascott]

I just canceled my i7 order for now. I'll wait and see what comes of this. I live 1 hr+ from an Apple store, so not that easy to lug it back and forth if there are problems...

[unamused]

im glad im not buying it right off the presses.... ive learned the hardway about jumping in on brand new tech releases... i had the storm 1 and that was a POS from launch.

hopefully after a month or so the imacs that are produced will be flawless...

[missm]

I had the same problem. I called Apple to report the issue and get a case number. Apparently they haven't had a lot of calls regarding this issue, in any case they told me to clear the System Management Controller (SMC). Which basically means to shut down your computer and unplug everything from it including the power cord. Wait 20 secs or so and reboot.
I did that and so far it hasn't flickered. We'll see if that works.

[jgmacrum]

Has anyone seen chatter about this issue in other places as well? In an effort to get a sense for how widespread the issue is, I've looked, but haven't seen any. Trying to figure out if this is one of the things where some small fraction of a new apple product has an issue or one of those where a bunch have the issue.

[jczaja]

I've been following this thread as i am very concerned because i am expecting my 27" iMac to be delivered today.. Either way I will let everyone know if I have a problem. Has anyone with the problem compared serial #'s yet? I dont know if that would help isolate the problem to a range of SNs?

My fingers are crossed..

-j

[53x12]

I'm going to take the plunge. I live close enough to an Apple store that if there was ever a problem with the screen or overheating within the first 14 days I would just return it and wait until the problem was fixed and buy it again. :cool:

[Custom56]

Just an update from me.

I bought the machine on saturday, worked with it all sunday and monday without trouble. Booted it up today and I had the flicker and blank screen problem. I rebooted the machine, and since then (about 8hours ago) no more problems...

I will also hold off returning it, since I have 10 days left on my return-warranty.

Let's see what happens the next few days.

[ElPinko]

I think the danger here is 2 issues, one completely normal and one an apparent fault, making it hard to distinguish from the 2.

From what I can gather the return from sleep on the lowest brightness setting is normal, it relates to refresh rates for that setting being detectable to the eye, I'm happy with that.

The second is the screen blanking / white rectangle fuzz - this one is the real issue and this is the one I attribute to heat currently (and this is the one I witnessed in the mac store) - might go back on my lunch tomorrow and turn the screen off with low brightness settings etc to see what I can create.

[archipellago]

Call ended - 52 minutes. I was blindly put through the customer relations after being on the phone for 45 minutes. They cannot pick up the machine - I have to take it back to the store. He is contacting the Buchanan Street Apple Store on my behalf and is looking into compensation. He is going to contact me tomorrow morning.

I really don't have much faith that he will call me back, but I have a Case ID number.




Third machine! I drove to Glasgow and back twice yesterday! Roughly 150 miles + £6 parking costs + 4-5 hours wasted time. I am really, really disappointed.

EDIT: Just received a phone-call. He's already contacted the store. It is no problem at all to take it back. Once it has been returned he will contact me with regards to compensation.


Shaun, I had problems with my iMac too involving lots of trekking about, not as 'far' as you but plenty enough.

My complaints guy said he's sending me an 8GB Nano as compo.

mind you he said he was arranging a pick up for my machine and that never happened!

Apple UK suck when it comes to service.

[MJD Dawg]

If this problem is somehow related to heat, might this issue go away with the new core i5 and i7 systems running cooler than the existing C2D, under idle load at least?

http://www.anandtech.com/cpuchipsets/showdoc.aspx?i=3634&p=17

[53x12]

If this problem is somehow related to heat, might this issue go away with the new core i5 and i7 systems running cooler than the existing C2D, under idle load at least?

http://www.anandtech.com/cpuchipsets/showdoc.aspx?i=3634&p=17


That is what I am hoping for with the quad core, but I'm still worried about the heat. Hope this is a non-issue and that Apple has its act together. :o

[macswitcha2]

Hi again,

If the display has been on for a while and I reduce the brightness down, the problem does not occur, it is only when the machine was woken from sleep or startup.

I don't think I'm going to ask for a replacement - it is probably software, and this machine is working perfectly fine except for that small annoying problem!

I love the iMac and I'm sure this isn't anything major to worry about.

Given the price tag of a mac, any thing that does not work right is something to worry about. The price tag demands perfection, not settling for less.

[ElPinko]

Usually with any internet forum problems i take reports with a pinch of salf, and always have - fail rate of 360's, PS's, freezing issues with computers etc.

However this one I have witnessed first hand, without trying to provoke it, within 15 minutes of using it in the apple store - this concerns me. £1700 in the U.K. is not something I can part with easily

[vuemme]

Hi all,
my 27" iMac show flickering two times during the weekend, and the problem disappears each 2 times after a reboot.
Now it is 2 days the mac works well, I don't know if is better to give it back or keep it.
Any suggestions?

[Anxo]

Well it would seem this problem is happening quite a lot now... which is a shame I was hoping to pass it off as just a bad luck thing, any chance this could just be the GPU acting up since it is a different card than normally used? hopefully the 4850 and the quad cores wont have this problem.

my 27" iMac show flickering two times during the weekend, and the problem disappears each 2 times after a reboot.
Now it is 2 days the mac works well, I don't know if is better to give it back or keep it.
Any suggestions?

I would personally just hold onto it for a while and see what happens, watch the forums and see if a solution or anything is found before you mess around with taking it back etc. But that is just my opinion and I really hate taking stuff back because of all the hassle it usually causes.

[jczaja]

I certainly wont hang on to mine if it has the screen problem demonstrated in this thread. With the amount of $$$ the iMac costs, we shouldnt have to deal with a bad screen. I'd just return the defective unit and wait until Apple irons out the problem. It's really not a hassle to return something. It WOULD be a hassle for me to keep something that i am unhappy with..

I would personally just hold onto it for a while and see what happens, watch the forums and see if a solution or anything is found before you mess around with taking it back etc. But that is just my opinion and I really hate taking stuff back because of all the hassle it usually causes.

[Bulldog3777]

Is the flickering problem being seen on both of 21.5in Imacs(different graphics cards)?? I was thinking of getting the low end one this weekend but now I am considering the upper end one, unless it's happening to both.

[jczaja]

Set up my new 27" iMac a few hours ago and I've yet to see any sort of flickering problem. I'm watching it VERY closely! If anything changes you can be sure i'll post in this thread. I'm going to try to replicate the original poster's problem by turning down the brightness and before going into sleep mode.

-jay

[Anxo]

Set up my new 27" iMac a few hours ago and I've yet to see any sort of flickering problem. I'm watching it VERY closely! If anything changes you can be sure i'll post in this thread. I'm going to try to replicate the original poster's problem by turning down the brightness and before going into sleep mode.

-jay

Can you tell us if it feels to be getting high temps as well? Kind of curious if that could be the problem...

[spsmyk]

Put my hand on the top of my 27" today as I was plugging in a USB mouse and keyboard for boot camp install - it was HOT...

Had mine running since Friday morning, except for some reboots during boot camp install - no issues at all with mine ::knock on wood::

Can't get over how much I love it --- a slight difference trying to run VMWare on my MBA and my new iMac :)

I like it so much just ordered a Quad Core as my second machine, now the wait begins.

[holymiao]

Dear all,
I have personally tested two 27 iMacs according to your instruction at the Apple in my university.
These iMacs were alright. They are working perfectly.
Also, the new magic mouse sucks, it is a gimmick.

By the way, I'm also one those waiting for my quad core iMac!:):):):)

[biggy52]

To those playing with their new 27" imac's , CONGRATULATIONS!

I just have 1 question/favor to ask. Those of you who are having flickering problems, can anyone try installing windows xp via bootcamp, and install all the necessary drivers and see if its still flickering. Seriously im worried if this is a hardware problem it might not be an easy fix. If its just SL or Mac Driver problem, then we know it will be fixed.

IF it works fine in XP, and no flickering then i click on BUY NOW for my iMac :D

[avihappy]

To those playing with their new 27" imac's , CONGRATULATIONS!

I just have 1 question/favor to ask. Those of you who are having flickering problems, can anyone try installing windows xp via bootcamp, and install all the necessary drivers and see if its still flickering. Seriously im worried if this is a hardware problem it might not be an easy fix. If its just SL or Mac Driver problem, then we know it will be fixed.

IF it works fine in XP, and no flickering then i click on BUY NOW for my iMac :D

That is a very good idea! If I actually had one of the 27 inchers I would have done that right now. Though it does mean you will have to run XP for a few days, which is unfortunate on a new iMac!

[biggy52]

That is a very good idea! If I actually had one of the 27 inchers I would have done that right now. Though it does mean you will have to run XP for a few days, which is unfortunate on a new iMac!

Im sure the misfortune of running XP for the greater good of mankind is something a SuperHero would not mind doing :D

But seriously if Apple is *NOT* talking about these problems, i guess its upto the users to filter the problems till we find the exact thing that is causing it...

Any SuperHero here with a MacSignal

[avihappy]

Im sure the misfortune of running XP for the greater good of mankind is something a SuperHero would not mind doing :D

But seriously if Apple is *NOT* talking about these problems, i guess its upto the users to filter the problems till we find the exact thing that is causing it...

Any SuperHero here with a MacSignal

The MacSignal has been lit!

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/1821/macsignal2.png

[positively4st]

I asked this in another thread, but figured this one will be more active. I'm currently looking to buy my first imac-- either the 27 or 21.5, i have yet to decide. I definitely don't want to deal with these sorts of problems, and i was wondering how long bugs like this usually take to get sorted out in the Apple world? Also, after the problem is fixed, do they let us know in any way or do we just have to take a shot and buy one and pray it works?

[MH01]

Im sure the misfortune of running XP for the greater good of mankind is something a SuperHero would not mind doing :D

But seriously if Apple is *NOT* talking about these problems, i guess its upto the users to filter the problems till we find the exact thing that is causing it...

Any SuperHero here with a MacSignal

Running XP will only prove that SL is at fault and that it is software. If a failing system runs fine on XP then this is SL/drivers are at fault. This in a way is your best outcome cause this is easy to fix.

If you want to isolate this as a hardware issue you a better off.

1. Running it as Display only, that will lower the heat greatly, and eliminate the GPU so if it is a display issue this will identify it. A bad outcome cause the display has a hardware issue, firmware upgrades do not fix this.

2. Stress the System, play GPU/CPU intensive game. If it is a heat issue with will not take long for it to start overheating and fail. Not a good outcome, means these babies suffer from heat.

Ready this thread my concern is that this issue happens for people just using the system under normal circumstances and not stressing it running games etc. So if anyone could try 1 or 2 that would help.

[biggy52]

Running XP will only prove that SL is at fault and that it is software. If a failing system runs fine on XP then this is SL/drivers are at fault. This in a way is your best outcome cause this is easy to fix.

If you want to isolate this as a hardware issue you a better off.

1. Running it as Display only, that will lower the heat greatly, and eliminate the GPU so if it is a display issue this will identify it. A bad outcome cause the display has a hardware issue, firmware upgrades do not fix this.

2. Stress the System, play GPU/CPU intensive game. If it is a heat issue with will not take long for it to start overheating and fail. Not a good outcome, means these babies suffer from heat.

Ready this thread my concern is that this issue happens for people just using the system under normal circumstances and not stressing it running games etc. So if anyone could try 1 or 2 that would help.

I have all 4 of my fingers crossed (2 hands 2 legs) and hoping that the XP runs smoothly on these new iMacs so we are sure that its only a driver/software glitch.

Its a nice idea to run via display port , this way we'll know if its only the screen that has problems. But i heard that the display port only works when you have already booted into SL, hence if its some sort of a driver glitch or software issue with SL, i think the problem might still persist...i might be wrong.

I dont know why, but i dont think heat could be the issue, someone in the another thread showed their temps screen, they dont look so high its just that everyone is used to the plastic back of the previous imacs, which wasnt conducting heat , hence felt cold. Unlike the newer iMacs which have aluminum backs, i guess if its getting hot at the back, its a good sign that its atleast transferring all the heat away from the motherboard .... dont you think?

Again i'm speaking all this from the air, i have never used a mac before :D. And i dont want to stay in the same boat forever. I need to take the Leap!

[ElPinko]

It's fair to say that the aluminum back would transfer heat unlike the plastic, but I'd suggest you take a walk down to an apple store and rub your hand around the imac, get a feel for yourself. I'm no professional at the temp things should run at safely, but it alarmed me!

[tooz]

it has happened on my uMB on occasions. I'm not too fussed, as I just bump up the brightness and all is well:)

[biggy52]

It's fair to say that the aluminum back would transfer heat unlike the plastic, but I'd suggest you take a walk down to an apple store and rub your hand around the imac, get a feel for yourself. I'm no professional at the temp things should run at safely, but it alarmed me!

I wish i had an apple store in my country :(. I live in a place where the 27" iMac is going to cost me over 3400 USD ... So no apple store for me.

But yes if it does feel very warm, its because the aluminum is working like a giant heat sink for the inner components of the iMac. Its just that there is nothing between your hand and the HEATSINK. Hence it feels hot.

[ElPinko]

I wish i had an apple store in my country :(. I live in a place where the 27" iMac is going to cost me over 3400 USD ... So no apple store for me.

But yes if it does feel very warm, its because the aluminum is working like a giant heat sink for the inner components of the iMac. Its just that there is nothing between your hand and the HEATSINK. Hence it feels hot.

fortunatly I work less than 2 minutes from Apples Regent Street shop so regular visits is not a problem.

While I understand heat transference is to be expected, I would argue that plastic would feel hot based on the temperature the imac throws out, but only in certain areas of the board, which points to individual components running very hot

Its just annoying, I've been sitting on my money letting it grow, waiting for the imac refresh, and now I can afford the i5 so i have to wait until November and suddenly this starts happening, I wouldnt even be reading about it if I already had the iMac...

[biggy52]

Its just annoying, I've been sitting on my money letting it grow, waiting for the imac refresh, and now I can afford the i5 so i have to wait until November and suddenly this starts happening, I wouldnt even be reading about it if I already had the iMac...

Sums up my story too!

[MH01]

fortunatly I work less than 2 minutes from Apples Regent Street shop so regular visits is not a problem.

While I understand heat transference is to be expected, I would argue that plastic would feel hot based on the temperature the imac throws out, but only in certain areas of the board, which points to individual components running very hot

Its just annoying, I've been sitting on my money letting it grow, waiting for the imac refresh, and now I can afford the i5 so i have to wait until November and suddenly this starts happening, I wouldnt even be reading about it if I already had the iMac...

Aside from Copper, Aluminum is the second best metal to transfer heat, hench why alot of CPU coolers use it. The new Imacs will be alot hotter then the plastic ones. You can argue that the new imacs should run cooler then the old ones cause the aluminum back will remove more heat from the GPU/CPU but will be very hot to touch. Off to the apple store now to see how hot they are...

[jczaja]

Well, *****... After a night of running without a problem, I've witnessed this screen flickering problem firsthand. It doesnt appear to be a heat issue as my machine was COLD after waking up from sleep mode this morning. After experiencing the problem I manually put my iMac to sleep and woke it up again and am yet to see the problem happen again. Seeing the issue with my own eyes, I am tempted to say it looks like a OS/software/driver issue. I was also reading that 10.6.2 supposed to fix a screen flickering issue with the MBP's? Could this be related? I wish there was a way to boot the screen into some sort of test mode like a white screen to see if the issue crops up. I also wish i had a displayport cable to see if the issue occurs when my MBP is connected to the screen. My gut feeling is that this is a software issue.

-jay

Here's a video from youtube that shows the problem on a MBP. This is almost exactly what i am seeing on the iMac!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJMuYneBLLE

[ElPinko]

The initial flashes in that youtube video are exactly what I saw, except mine were white not black and ran through the middle of the screen not the top. That's actually quite relieving if that issue was resolved with a firmware update.

Also interested to hear from all the people who have decided to try and feel the imac heat, atleast then we can get an informed discussion on the situation.

[larzy]

First time I experienced the problem was while watching some youtube clips... the distortions were kindda purple and green. But since I've only experienced it with white/black flickers.

Also happens right after start up while the machine is cold.

[jmonfire]

I was planning to buy 21.5 new imac. I've been with windows based PC all my life and was thinking of paying a higher premium on an apple product for its brand name and superiority.

With all the surrounding issues with the screen, how does apple handle things like this?
Do they annouce that they're aware of this and make modification in their manufacturing?

Not sure if I'm gonna get it anymore...or just hold off till they fix the issue

[Jayrezzy]

Mine keeps flicking, and its NOT hot at all anywhere. So I dont believe this is happening via heating issues.

tried to call apple care, but it is outside there normal hours....didnt they used to be open 24 hrs?

[larzy]

I've received the replacement iMac today... I'll setup the machine later today, as I have some important work that needs to be done on the "old" - which haven't had any flickering today...

Update: The new one was built in week 42 - whereas the "old" I received last friday is from week 40... will keep on eye on the flickering issue...

[Jayrezzy]

This is an update to all, at the apple store now and showed the genius guy a video clip of my flicking on my screen (because I knew it wouldnt happen in front of him, which it didnt.) Talked to his manger and now Im getting a replacement. We'll see how the new Imac works out for me. Ill keep you all updated.

[Goldie009]

This is really not what I wanted to hear!! I will keep an eye on this over the next couple of days. I'm waiting for an i7 iMac to ship. Will post here with any problems or lack thereof when it arrives. Might mean a trip to the Glasgow apple store for me :(.

Hope no one else has any more problems!!

[pschaf]

Got my 27-inch iMac a few days ago... and I'm experiencing screen flicker and black-out issues. I took some video of the problem today:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhXW6DHoT88

Also posted on Apple Support's web site.

Will be taking my computer back tomorrow for a replacement. Let's hope this isn't a big issue.

[Norrsund]

I'm having this problem but only on my 24" LED Cinema Display which is connected to my 27" iMac. It happens after I wake the iMac from sleep or the display turns on after being off for a while. The flickering/tearing continues for about 10-20 minutes after start up. Is that consistent with what's happening for everyone on the internal display?

I've had my LED Display for a while and never had this problem when connected to my unibody MacBook Pro or my previous 24" iMac.

[27InchMac]

Im not getting the flickering problem but i am getting another display problem.

My screen is not coming out of sleep basically. If I put it to sleep and wake it a few seconds later it comes on fine but if I leave the machine for a period of time and the display turns off by itself it wont turn when I press the mouse or keyboard. The imac is still running fine because my itunes still plays, its just the screen wont turn on. I get the same problem if I set the iMac to sleep at night and when I turn it on in the morning...black screen and have to reset with the power button.

This is with the base 27".

i am having this exact problem.....i have not experienced any flickering at all though, no matter what the brightness settings are....anyone have a solution?????

[Goldie009]

Interesting posts here.

Having read this thread last night I popped into the Buchannan St (Glasgow) store after University today to query the return methods available should my (as of yet undelivered) imac have this problem. Whilst waiting for a member of staff to be available I had a play with a 27" mac to attempt to recreate the problem. Normal use didn't provoke any occurrence of the event. However I thought I'd try some HD playback. I went onto the bbc Iplayer website and watched episode one of "Life" for a few minutes whilst varying the brightness. Almost right away after going from dim to full brightness the screen started to flicker with the horizontal bands described by others here. I stopped the HD footage and the problem stopped, but only for a few minutes or so. It came back once before I had the chance to speak to a member of staff. The HD footage certainly aggravated the symptoms.

After speaking to the member of staff though he assured me I would be able to return the computer to them, where they would be able to fix it or replace it, however he appeared not to have heard about this problem as of yet. I'm not sure whether he was just saying that so as not to put off the woman about to buy one beside us or whether he genuinely had not heard of it. I hope its the latter of the two here...

Can anyone confirm or deny the theory that graphics intensive work aggravates the problem? As this may help narrow the cause down to the graphics card not working as it should....

[larzy]

Can anyone confirm or deny the theory that graphics intensive work aggravates the problem? As this may help narrow the cause down to the graphics card not working as it should....

It has happened to me, just while writing an email using a webmail client - right after booting the machine. But also while watching some youtube clips.

[nek]

Has anyone with problems mentioned which graphics card they have? The 4670 or 4850?

[avihappy]

Has anyone with problems mentioned which graphics card they have? The 4670 or 4850?

They are all 4670 because the iMacs with the 4850
are delayed til later this month.

[andrew626]

Thanks for sharing this. Just canceled my iMac 27" Quad Core order from Apple. Looks like the time is not right for a Mac :(

[exempt]

Hey everyone :) . I was posting here because I did a google search for the same problem. I too received my 27" imac and noticed very very subtle glitches in my display, I however notice it every few minutes, its as if there is driver corruption, almost like when you overclock a video cards memory to much and you'll start to notice tiny flickers every now and then as the card heats up. I know that apple will replace the display if it continues to deteriorate but still it is a annoyance and it happen to fast that you can't take a screen shot. I do not increase or decrease my brightness, this occurs randomly , I do notice it happens more often though when there are flash banners on web pages oddly enough.

Funny story though, I ordered it from apple.com and the box came, I took my time setting everything up, then...I pull off the white fabric cover, and my glass screen is completely smashed in like 6 places! I was so pissed! I called the local apple store and the lady on the phone was rude and said, " well you can bring it in but I really dont see how it could have been damaged during shipping, apple packs the units very well, are you sure you didnt drop it?"

I was worried that they might make me warranty it or worse just take a loss. so I boxed it back up and took it to them. Luckily my buddy is the manager there and he swapped it out for a new one, but the whole store crowded around it when they looked at it. Looking at the Fedex box that it came in, you could see a huge bootprint right where the main crack is on the screen, pretty dissapointing.

A lady at the store asked " what were you feeling when you opened it and saw that!?"

I replied (and I'll censor it from the real way I said it) , " it was like I was making out with a hot chick, then when I was taking the undergarments off, I saw male anatomy".

[exempt]

Has anyone with problems mentioned which graphics card they have? The 4670 or 4850?


yes mine is a 4670

[gr81mgbgt]

I've received the replacement iMac today... I'll setup the machine later today, as I have some important work that needs to be done on the "old" - which haven't had any flickering today...

Update: The new one was built in week 42 - whereas the "old" I received last friday is from week 40... will keep on eye on the flickering issue...

Where do you find which week it was built??

[MK1972]

Hi,

my new iMac 27' also shows the flickering problem. Why there's no statement from Apple regarding this topic ? Is it software related or a hardware fault ? I have to know it, because my 14 days return time slot will close next monday. Guys, do you think that maybe 10.6.2 will fix the problem ? I've just read the release notes regarding graphics driver update ("Screen flickering solved"). Pls. advise.

Thanks & best regards from Germany,

Mark

[robotkiller]

Hi,

my new iMac 27' also shows the flickering problem. Why there's no statement from Apple regarding this topic ? Is it software related or a hardware fault ? I have to know it, because my 14 days return time slot will close next monday. Guys, do you think that maybe 10.6.2 will fix the problem ? I've just read the release notes regarding graphics driver update ("Screen flickering solved"). Pls. advise.

Thanks & best regards from Germany,

Mark

What are you referring to here?

[MK1972]

What are you referring to here?

Just Klick (http://news.worldofapple.com/archives/2009/10/16/apple-seeds-new-mac-os-x-1062-build-seed-notes/)

Mac OS X 10.6.2 Build [Seed Notes]
....
GraphicsDrivers
- Fixes to stencil renderbuffers.
- Resolves a crash in OpenCL.
- Resolves screen flickering issue.
- Resolves a QuickTime Player X stuttering issue when playing 1080p content.....

[xtend]

Just Klick (http://news.worldofapple.com/archives/2009/10/16/apple-seeds-new-mac-os-x-1062-build-seed-notes/)

that was from mid October, 4 days before the new iMacs were released.

Sure this is in regards to the current issue ?

[robotkiller]

that was from mid October, 4 days before the new iMacs were released.

Sure this is in regards to the current issue ?

Agreed. This was done before the problem was even known.

Unfortunately (?) this has not been a very publicized problem, so I'm just crossing my fingers that it's a fluke from a bad batch of C2Ds.

To MK1972 - I would return your iMac (I already returned mine for the same problem)

[hexdump]

Hi!

This is scaring the hell out of me. I will wait for the new batches to check if the problem still persists. It's a bunch of money and I just want my imac to be "perfect".

Thanks in advance,
HexDump.

[MK1972]

that was from mid October, 4 days before the new iMacs were released.

Sure this is in regards to the current issue ?

No, I don't. But as I read on several german boards, the flickering issue seems to affect other ATI based Macs with comparable problems using 10.6.1. Anyway, the build notes were released 4 days before the 27' iMac launch, maybe Apple was aware of the graphic driver issues take place with snow leopard ? Well, it's more a sickly hope than a suspicion. As I've heard from german Apple Support, our well beloved computer company is aware of the flickering iMacs but no official statement has been released to their irritated customer base. Shame on you for this fuc.ing information policy. As I told, my time slot for my 14 days right of return will close next monday and I'm really anxious what to do now. Any suggestions ?

Kind regards,

Mark

[MK1972]

To MK1972 - I would return your iMac (I already returned mine for the same problem)

Just returned or did you ordered an exchange of your DOA iMac ? In case of exchange, did you already receive a new one ?

Unofficial advise from german genius support: "Well I would return the iMac and reorder in 6-8 weeks when the problems are solved" *LoL* Funny, isn't it ?

[robotkiller]

Just returned or did you ordered an exchange of your DOA iMac ? In case of exchange, did you already receive a new one ?

Unofficial advise from german genius support: "Well I would return the iMac and reorder in 6-8 weeks when the problems are solved" *LoL* Funny, isn't it ?

I returned my iMac a couple of weeks ago, about 2 days after I bought it from the Apple Store.

I have since ordered an i7 from the online store. I figure that by the time I get the computer, the initial bugs will be fixed. I'm hoping this is the case.

[larzy]

Where do you find which week it was built??

You can track and see some information about your mac using this page,

http://www.chipmunk.nl/klantenservice/applemodel.html

[Shaun.P]

Call ended - 52 minutes. I was blindly put through the customer relations after being on the phone for 45 minutes. They cannot pick up the machine - I have to take it back to the store. He is contacting the Buchanan Street Apple Store on my behalf and is looking into compensation. He is going to contact me tomorrow morning.

I really don't have much faith that he will call me back, but I have a Case ID number.




Third machine! I drove to Glasgow and back twice yesterday! Roughly 150 miles + £6 parking costs + 4-5 hours wasted time. I am really, really disappointed.

EDIT: Just received a phone-call. He's already contacted the store. It is no problem at all to take it back. Once it has been returned he will contact me with regards to compensation.


Just an update guys. I took the iMac back and the customer relations guy tried to call me but I couldn't take the call - he left a message simply saying to call him in regards to a gesture Apple will be making to me. Over the course of last week I contacted the guy on 4 separate occasions and emailed him twice, but he never responded.

So I phoned Apple relations today with regards to the gesture. He said to pick something on the Apple Online Retail store, preferably Apple. He made suggestions of software, or an iPod Shuffle. I considered my out of pocket expenses to be more than £45.00 so I said an iPod Nano.

It is being posted out today / tomorrow and I guess I'll sell it on eBay and pop the money back in my bank account.

Overall I'm pleased with the outcome, but I would have loved to have a nice new iMac without any problems. I have to admit though the customer service has been great, the store was great about all the swaps and refunds and the customer relations people were relatively nice too.

[larzy]

I finally received my 3rd 27" inch today - with no problems so far :-)

[robertgarven]

the problem seems to be that the CPU is a neuronet processor, a learning computer..:eek:

[mrsir2009]

If its the LEDs when the Mac is on a low brightness level why doesn't it happen with LED displays or the MacBook PROs with LED?

[avihappy]

10.6.2 is out. Anyone still having problems, or is this thread doomed to die?

[MK1972]

10.6.2 is out. Anyone still having problems, or is this thread doomed to die?

Testing for about 45 minutes now. No flickering after wake up, no flickering so far ! Hope that it was really a driver bug.

[Azriel]

I returned my imac after encountering the "flicker" problem. I noticed a few things different with my new one...

My new imac started up within seconds...my other one took about a full 2 minutes before I even heard the chime. At the time, I thought it was probably normal, but now I see obviously it wasn't. I also had problems with my projects in garageband that I don't have with my new one.

I'm very happy I took the old one back, the new imac seems to be flawless.

[Amacg08]

Have updated to 10.6.2 and am still having issues with flickering!

Purchased 10 days ago, what can I do?

27" Base model, Week 41

Thanks!

[MK1972]

Have updated to 10.6.2 and am still having issues with flickering!

Purchased 10 days ago, what can I do?

27" Base model, Week 41

Thanks!

Pls, check in /system/library/extensions your ATI4600controller.kext.
Right click on it and look for the version no. It should be 1.6.6.25 dated 9/10/09

[Kebabselector]

This thread is worrying me a bit, but from what I can tell it seems the base 21.5 iMac with 9400m is fine? (are all versions fine now?)

[kangle]

I've had the 27" iMac for 2 weeks. From the start I noticed a random flicker/flash where I see a bright horizontal line flash about 2/3 of the way down the screen. Maybe 1 time per hour. So fast its hard to make out any colors or patterns. I believe it may only be 1 or 2 pixels wide. I have not been able to trigger it by turning down the brightness like some in this forum have stated. The question I have is do I return in already, or wait to see if a software update might correct it?

[101DM101]

Is the flickering problem being seen on both of 21.5in Imacs(different graphics cards)?? I was thinking of getting the low end one this weekend but now I am considering the upper end one, unless it's happening to both.

I browsed through the thread, but I couldn't find a answer to the question of Bulldog. (Or am I just blind, then please open my eyes :) )
From all the readings I also did in other threads, it seems to me that this flickering issue is only on 27", while 21.5 (NVIDIA or ATI) is fine.
Can anyone confirm this? Or is there also a different behaviour between 21.5 NVIDIA and ATI?
Did the new update 10.6.2. change anything?

BG
DM101

[lamarck2]

I browsed through the thread, but I couldn't find a answer to the question of Bulldog. (Or am I just blind, then please open my eyes :) )
From all the readings I also did in other threads, it seems to me that this flickering issue is only on 27", while 21.5 (NVIDIA or ATI) is fine.
Can anyone confirm this? Or is there also a different behaviour between 21.5 NVIDIA and ATI?
Did the new update 10.6.2. change anything?

BG
DM101

I can confirm that my 21.5 inch integrated NVIDIA has the same flicker problem that the OP described except that I also will see the flicker occur for maybe 20 sec. randomly (but rarely) during routine usage at lowest brightness level.

Can't decide whether to return machine as defective to reseller to get an exchange -- it's not clear how many new 21.5 iMacs have this behavior because most people probably don't keep machine set to lowest brightness setting to notice the problem.

[mrsir2009]

I don't think its a software issue... It seems like a LED problem...

[missm]

I installed the update and no flickering problems so far! :)

[Emme]

My iMac 27" also has this flicker, its not very often and not VERY annoying, but it worries me.It also takes about 1 minute to boot...despite I made the update yesterday.

[Shaun.P]

Just an update guys. I took the iMac back and the customer relations guy tried to call me but I couldn't take the call - he left a message simply saying to call him in regards to a gesture Apple will be making to me. Over the course of last week I contacted the guy on 4 separate occasions and emailed him twice, but he never responded.

So I phoned Apple relations today with regards to the gesture. He said to pick something on the Apple Online Retail store, preferably Apple. He made suggestions of software, or an iPod Shuffle. I considered my out of pocket expenses to be more than £45.00 so I said an iPod Nano.

It is being posted out today / tomorrow and I guess I'll sell it on eBay and pop the money back in my bank account.

Overall I'm pleased with the outcome, but I would have loved to have a nice new iMac without any problems. I have to admit though the customer service has been great, the store was great about all the swaps and refunds and the customer relations people were relatively nice too.

Received the iPod nano today, so it's case closed.

[missm]

i did the update the day it came out and nothing. it didn't work. will be taking it back.

[robotkiller]

I returned my c2d three weeks ago because of a flickering screen.

Got the i7 yesterday and have been putting it through the paces heavily -- imovieHD, video encoding, gaming, multiple threads churning away.

So far, I've thrown the book at it and it's still perfect (knock on wood). No sign of flicker (which showed up immediately with the old one). Runs smooth as silk.

I don't know if it was just the OS update or a bad batch of hardware or a combination of both that caused the display problems, but I'm pretty optimistic that this particular issue has been resolved for machines going forward.

[Amacg08]

Have updated to 10.6.2 and am still having issues with flickering!

Purchased 10 days ago, what can I do?

27" Base model, Week 41

Thanks!

Have had mine replaced in the store I bought from (Was within 14 days) they pushed me for 40 mins to have it repaired but I demanded a replacement as I was not happy from day 1 with this machine.

[Bill P.]

My 27" i7 quad core with the 4850 graphics came in yesterday. I'm running 10.6.2 (a migration from my previous 20" iMac).

After running a few hours I also began getting screen flickering and intermittent black screen. This would be followed by horizontal lines about 1" wide towards the lower half of the screen. I rebooted and all was fine until late this morning when I had a repeat of the entire event.

I wanted to add my hat into the ring. What to do.......

Bill

[avihappy]

My 27" i7 quad core with the 4850 graphics came in yesterday. I'm running 10.6.2 (a migration from my previous 20" iMac).

After running a few hours I also began getting screen flickering and intermittent black screen. This would be followed by horizontal lines about 1" wide towards the lower half of the screen. I rebooted and all was fine until late this morning when I had a repeat of the entire event.

I wanted to add my hat into the ring. What to do.......

Bill

Hmm, so the quads are getting it too huh?

[Bill P.]

Hmm, so the quads are getting it too huh?

Yes, see this thread at Apple Support:

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2212682&start=135&tstart=0

[rustyosaurus]

I'll throw my hat into the ring as well. Day 3 of new 27in imac base config and i'm experiencing the screen flicker issues. didn't notice it at all on day 1, noticed it a little on day 2 and now completely on day 3. it's a real pain. and this after spending 3 days migrating over all my data and programs.

i'm exchanging it.

[canyonblue737]

ok i am having the issue with my brand new iMac 27 i7 with the 4850 card. flickering every minute or so at various places on the screen (banding) and then occasional blackouts of the whole screen lasting under a second. it began about 2 hours after turning on the computer the first time and continued even after reboots and this is with all updates including 10.6.2 sadly.

the apple forum thread on thread on this issue suggested clearing the pram by booting holding down the option, command, p and r keys and what do you know... that instantly stopped the issue for about another 2 hours and again it returned. flickering etc. at least every minute or two minutes at most. again a reboot with clearing the pram and now i am running flicker free, but it will return no doubt.

does a temporary fix by clearing pram imply anything as to if this is a firmware / software issue that apple will fix, or does it still point to hardware and mean i need to return this thing? as someone who got it from apple.com online i would hate to need to repack and do the whole exchange thing which is a pain in the rear without being able to do it at a local apple store.

thanks... this seems *very* widespread and i hope macrumors covers it on the front page soon.

[robotkiller]

ok i am having the issue with my brand new iMac 27 i7 with the 4850 card. flickering every minute or so at various places on the screen (banding) and then occasional blackouts of the whole screen lasting under a second. it began about 2 hours after turning on the computer the first time and continued even after reboots and this is with all updates including 10.6.2 sadly.

the apple forum thread on thread on this issue suggested clearing the pram by booting holding down the option, command, p and r keys and what do you know... that instantly stopped the issue for about another 2 hours and again it returned. flickering etc. at least every minute or two minutes at most. again a reboot with clearing the pram and now i am running flicker free, but it will return no doubt.

does a temporary fix by clearing pram imply anything as to if this is a firmware / software issue that apple will fix, or does it still point to hardware and mean i need to return this thing? as someone who got it from apple.com online i would hate to need to repack and do the whole exchange thing which is a pain in the rear without being able to do it at a local apple store.

thanks... this seems *very* widespread and i hope macrumors covers it on the front page soon.

This is unfortunate. I would return it. My current i7 is perfect (so far, knock on wood) so it would seem that only a subset of machines are affected.

[rustyosaurus]

strangely, i haven't experienced the flickering/banding issue since i posted about it earlier today. it was flickering every few minutes or sooner. i didn't change anything on the imac - i've been using it all day.

the only thing i did was to reformat the time capsule and am now running a TM backup. i can't imagine that would have anything to do with it.

has anyone who experienced this issue had it just randomly go away? maybe it will come back - i hope not.

my other issue is the spinning wheel - getting it quite alot. i am running the TM backup and have been for hours now - maybe the load is too high but that is sort of disconcerting.

[J&JPolangin]

...that's expensive hardware to put up with an issue like that, take it back and save your $$ for a Rev B unit...

[kfscoll]

My new 27" i7 just started the flickering problem today and I've had the machine since 12 Nov. I did a PRAM/NVRAM reset about an hour ago and so far the problem hasn't returned but I'm sure that sooner or later it will.

Since AFAIK Apple hasn't diagnosed the problem yet, I have absolutely no faith that a replacement machine will be any better. I really don't want to go through the hassle of returning my BTO machine only to have the replacement develop the same issue. I'll call Apple tomorrow to see what my options are -- I'd like to get my name on the list for a replacement and keep this machine until that replacement ships out. We'll see. I really hope that this turns out being fixable via driver or firmware update, but there's no way to know if that's the case until Apple makes a statement.

[fruitpunch.ben]

My new 27" i7 just started the flickering problem today and I've had the machine since 12 Nov. I did a PRAM/NVRAM reset about an hour ago and so far the problem hasn't returned but I'm sure that sooner or later it will.

Since AFAIK Apple hasn't diagnosed the problem yet, I have absolutely no faith that a replacement machine will be any better. I really don't want to go through the hassle of returning my BTO machine only to have the replacement develop the same issue. I'll call Apple tomorrow to see what my options are -- I'd like to get my name on the list for a replacement and keep this machine until that replacement ships out. We'll see. I really hope that this turns out being fixable via driver or firmware update, but there's no way to know if that's the case until Apple makes a statement.

maybe i should be happy that mine is yet to ship!
But since its happening on both the graphics card models, this means it must be a driver problem not hardware right?

[esseff]

I too am experiencing similar, albeit not as bad as others, as I only get the occasional very brief flash. However, according to Apple, at this moment, it's not a firmware issue and they're treating it as a potential hardware problem. The directive for US and Europe is to replace any iMac that exhibits these symptoms. So, after speaking to one of the higher level Techs, Apple have not only arranged to send me a new one, but they're allowing me to keep the old one until the new one arrives, as shipping times are around 7-10 days. I was completely ready to be told that they thought it a firmware issue and it would be resolved asap. They wouldn't offer to swap out a totally usable, with the odd flash, machine, if they in any way thought it was firmware related. So, guys, if you're like me, you don't have to be without you Mac, and you can still get it replaced.

[robotkiller]

My new 27" i7 just started the flickering problem today and I've had the machine since 12 Nov. I did a PRAM/NVRAM reset about an hour ago and so far the problem hasn't returned but I'm sure that sooner or later it will.

Since AFAIK Apple hasn't diagnosed the problem yet, I have absolutely no faith that a replacement machine will be any better. I really don't want to go through the hassle of returning my BTO machine only to have the replacement develop the same issue. I'll call Apple tomorrow to see what my options are -- I'd like to get my name on the list for a replacement and keep this machine until that replacement ships out. We'll see. I really hope that this turns out being fixable via driver or firmware update, but there's no way to know if that's the case until Apple makes a statement.

Have faith. My replacement is perfect. It seems that some machines are simply defective.

[timdafweak]

Glad I decided to check here before I went off to order a 2500$ iMac Core i7. I will wait till they have these niggling issues solved. Can't imagine having to wait 15 days and then get a faulty unit (seems to be the case as I have been reading) and then send it back again, and repeat.

[kfscoll]

I too am experiencing similar, albeit not as bad as others, as I only get the occasional very brief flash. However, according to Apple, at this moment, it's not a firmware issue and they're treating it as a potential hardware problem. The directive for US and Europe is to replace any iMac that exhibits these symptoms. So, after speaking to one of the higher level Techs, Apple have not only arranged to send me a new one, but they're allowing me to keep the old one until the new one arrives, as shipping times are around 7-10 days. I was completely ready to be told that they thought it a firmware issue and it would be resolved asap. They wouldn't offer to swap out a totally usable, with the odd flash, machine, if they in any way thought it was firmware related. So, guys, if you're like me, you don't have to be without you Mac, and you can still get it replaced.
Apple decided to replace my iMac also, but they wouldn't let me keep the old one until the new one arrived...fortunately I still have my 24" iMac. I'm still not convinced this isn't a firmware problem, and I didn't get a warm fuzzy from the senior-level advisor that I spoke to that Apple's got a clue what's causing the issue. I'm very concerned that my replacement is also going to have the problem or (worse) other issues (like dead pixels) too.

[esseff]

Apple decided to replace my iMac also, but they wouldn't let me keep the old one until the new one arrived...fortunately I still have my 24" iMac. I'm still not convinced this isn't a firmware problem, and I didn't get a warm fuzzy from the senior-level advisor that I spoke to that Apple's got a clue what's causing the issue. I'm very concerned that my replacement is also going to have the problem or (worse) other issues (like dead pixels) too.


I wouldn't worry. Apple will not want to repeat this and the replacement you receive will be absolutely fine. I'm also not convinced that a firmware update wouldn't solve it, but we have to defer to Apple in this matter. After all, they just wouldn't go to the expense of replacing our machines if they didn't think they needed to.

[solman]

There is far too many issues still. Based on this thread, guys who just got theirs within last 24 hours STILL have issues. Sounds like Hardware for sure if 10.6.2 has not fixed the flickering.

What a ??7^%@@ shame, I really need a new computer.

It really seems like this Video card runs too hot for the machine.

It's just not worth transferring data--->return to Apple--->transfer again---> possibly return again...

Just like automobiles, they say never buy the first of... anything.

I will order in the new year praying Apple figures this out.

[camgrant84]

There is far too many issues still. Based on this thread, guys who just got theirs within last 24 hours STILL have issues. Sounds like Hardware for sure if 10.6.2 has not fixed the flickering.

What a ??7^%@@ shame, I really need a new computer.

It really seems like this Video card runs too hot for the machine.

It's just not worth transferring data--->return to Apple--->transfer again---> possibly return again...

Just like automobiles, they say never buy the first of... anything.

I will order in the new year praying Apple figures this out.

After 8 hours of decent use - ranging from HD video, word processing, surfing, gaming, installing apps etc.. my GPU is sitting at 59 degrees.

Don't know if that is high or not, frankly I couldn't care.. It's a good 35 degrees below my gaming pc's temps.

Couldn't be happier with the machine

[esseff]

After 8 hours of decent use - ranging from HD video, word processing, surfing, gaming, installing apps etc.. my GPU is sitting at 59 degrees.

Don't know if that is high or not, frankly I couldn't care.. It's a good 35 degrees below my gaming pc's temps.

Couldn't be happier with the machine

After playing a good GPU intensive game for at least 30 minutes my GPU temp goes up to 78c. No increase in CPU temp and there's no noticeable increase in fan activity either. The GPU seems to rely solely on its big heatsink.

[missm]

I wouldn't worry. Apple will not want to repeat this and the replacement you receive will be absolutely fine. I'm also not convinced that a firmware update wouldn't solve it, but we have to defer to Apple in this matter. After all, they just wouldn't go to the expense of replacing our machines if they didn't think they needed to.

not necessarily, i'm on my third machine now.

[zerolight]

Does this problem still only occur when running on very low brightness settings?

[mpuck972]

Here is an issue I ran into on my c2d 27"

I am not seeing the flickering issue but I did however last week get a weird issue while watching a PBS documentary online where after about 20 minutes the entire screen shifted horizontally so basically the dock was about 1/4 of the way down the screen from the top. Imagine how the old tv's had the horizontal adjustment, thats what it was like.

I havent watched any more videos online, so I don't know if it's an ongoing issue or not.

[300D]

There is far too many issues still. Based on this thread, guys who just got theirs within last 24 hours STILL have issues.

Thats because this is an INTERNET FORUM. For every person that comes online to report a problem, there are thousands more people using their computers like normal.

[fahne23]

Here is an issue I ran into on my c2d 27"

I am not seeing the flickering issue but I did however last week get a weird issue while watching a PBS documentary online where after about 20 minutes the entire screen shifted horizontally so basically the dock was about 1/4 of the way down the screen from the top. Imagine how the old tv's had the horizontal adjustment, thats what it was like.

I havent watched any more videos online, so I don't know if it's an ongoing issue or not.

That is exactly what was happening to my 27" i7. Except I had the flickering problem along with it. It's probably a matter of time before it starts happening. I would definitely call Apple and report the problem, they are replacing mine.

[esseff]

not necessarily, i'm on my third machine now.

I assume you've had yours replaced from a store? My guess is they've simply been replacing it with another from the same faulty batch. What I meant to say is that in dealing with Apple online, the machine they're replacing mine with is not due to be shipped until 1st Dec, so hopefully it will have whatever mod/adjustment/replacement necessary to be the machine I expect the Mac to be.

[JimAtLaw]

Crud. 24 hours since first power up and powered on continuously since then with about 18 hours of use, and just had my first unexplained screen blink/artifacts. Oy vey, hoping this is not the same thing!

[solman]

Crud. 24 hours since first power up and powered on continuously since then with about 18 hours of use, and just had my first unexplained screen blink/artifacts. Oy vey, hoping this is not the same thing!

There is a thread, "POLL: Does Your 27 inch have a screen problem". It would be maybe a good idea for those following this thread to vote.

[iMacKeung]

Have been using my i7 iMac with joy for the last week...no problem at all

but just now I started to experience the flickering problem...random horizontal band occurs at non-regular intervals, and it even switched off the screen twice, each last for less than a second

I then reboot the machine, and it seems fine now...hope it's not going to come back

CPU temp is 51 degree and GPU is nearly 70...and it's been that all week....don't know why it suddenly occurs out of no where

[missm]

I assume you've had yours replaced from a store? My guess is they've simply been replacing it with another from the same faulty batch. What I meant to say is that in dealing with Apple online, the machine they're replacing mine with is not due to be shipped until 1st Dec, so hopefully it will have whatever mod/adjustment/replacement necessary to be the machine I expect the Mac to be.

No, I was told the last two were part of a new shipment with that particular issue corrected.

[robotkiller]

Have been using my i7 iMac with joy for the last week...no problem at all

but just now I started to experience the flickering problem...random horizontal band occurs at non-regular intervals, and it even switched off the screen twice, each last for less than a second

I then reboot the machine, and it seems fine now...hope it's not going to come back

CPU temp is 51 degree and GPU is nearly 70...and it's been that all week....don't know why it suddenly occurs out of no where

It's unusual for this to show up on your computer one week later. Typically, from my previous experience and others that I've read, the flickering shows up within a day of starting the computer.

[kfscoll]

It's unusual for this to show up on your computer one week later. Typically, from my previous experience and others that I've read, the flickering shows up within a day of starting the computer.

Mine didn't show up until four days after I first booted my computer.

[Btom]

I am planning to get myself an i5 (my first Mac!) and was watching this thread for a while. One of main new things on the new iMac is the LED back light. The hardware (power supply) is substantially different from the previous models. It looks to me like some kind of the LED power supply shutdown and restart (thermal overload???). This could explain difficulties to reproduce this problem.
This is a pure speculation on my side of course, and Apple is not talking much about this issue (I hope they work on it as we speak), but the poll on one of the other thread is not good (44 reported problems, 59 no problems), this is more than 40% failure rate!

[robotkiller]

I am planning to get myself an i5 (my first Mac!) and was watching this thread for a while. One of main new things on the new iMac is the LED back light. The hardware (power supply) is substantially different from the previous models. It looks to me like some kind of the LED power supply shutdown and restart (thermal overload???). This could explain difficulties to reproduce this problem.
This is a pure speculation on my side of course, and Apple is not talking much about this issue (I hope they work on it as we speak), but the poll on one of the other thread is not good (44 reported problems, 59 no problems), this is more than 40% failure rate!

I'm sure you realize that poll is statistically worthless.

[Trek2100]

I am planning to get myself an i5 (my first Mac!) and was watching this thread for a while. One of main new things on the new iMac is the LED back light. The hardware (power supply) is substantially different from the previous models. It looks to me like some kind of the LED power supply shutdown and restart (thermal overload???). This could explain difficulties to reproduce this problem.
This is a pure speculation on my side of course, and Apple is not talking much about this issue (I hope they work on it as we speak), but the poll on one of the other thread is not good (44 reported problems, 59 no problems), this is more than 40% failure rate!

This is being blown way out of proportion. When I called Apple to inquire about my order I raised this issue. I was told that this was not an Apple-meltdown (my words). No one knows how many real problems there are but lack of an official announcement from Apple would indicate the world is not going to stop revolving. The 44 supposed problems may or may not be real since not everyone on this forum is an Apple fan. I feel bad for those who have encountered the problem but Apple will make it right. Not to downplay this but according to the Apple rep mega-thousands have been ordered. That may even be mega-ten-thousands. If thats true there are very few lemons. Car companies can only wish they had so few problems when compared to the number of cars manufactured. I know a few who have bought the new iMac and are totally in love with it and zero problems. They are first time Mac owners with many years of Windows experience. I visited my Apple store today and they have had no returns and no reported problems. The 44/59 thing has no meaning whatsoever statistically.

[missm]

It's unusual for this to show up on your computer one week later. Typically, from my previous experience and others that I've read, the flickering shows up within a day of starting the computer.

mine showed up 3 weeks after.

[Btom]

I'm sure you realize that poll is statistically worthless.

Yeah, but unless you'll point me to a better one, this is the only one we have...

[Btom]

This is being blown way out of proportion. When I called Apple to inquire about my order I raised this issue. I was told that this was not an Apple-meltdown (my words). No one knows how many real problems there are but lack of an official announcement from Apple would indicate the world is not going to stop revolving. ...

As I sad, I am (still) planning to get myself one of these. I'd feel much better though, if Apple said that issue has been identified and is being fixed.
Apple knows very well how many returns they had, they simply don't talk about it (granted, nobody voluntary would). But I am going to check return policy in my store VERY carefully....

[Bryan Bowler]

Yeah, but unless you'll point me to a better one, this is the only one we have...

I'm sorry, but is a totally ridiculous comment. These kind of polls, and any other poll anywhere on this very subject, do not provide an accurate picture whatsoever. Period. And that is why so many people have given the OP a hard time. It's ok to talk about issues, but to start a poll thinking that you're going to get anywhere with it is ignorant.

Bryan

[fruitpunch.ben]

I'm sorry, but is a totally ridiculous comment. These kind of polls, and any other poll anywhere on this very subject, do not provide an accurate picture whatsoever. Period. And that is why so many people have given the OP a hard time. It's ok to talk about issues, but to start a poll thinking that you're going to get anywhere with it is ignorant.

Bryan

I understand that its hard to judge % of problems from polls and forums, but I have to admit the issue has got me worried waiting for my iMac to arrive hopefully on Monday.
Screen issue and HDD issues seem to be the two major things, and based on the number of people talking about the problems on here it isn't just one or two machines. I realise its impossible to say exactly how many, but these problems have got me worried.
*keeps fingers crossed till Monday*

[solman]

Yeah, but unless you'll point me to a better one, this is the only one we have...

Well said.

[Bryan Bowler]

<face palm>

[wwwjscom]

<face palm>

Agreed.

[admanimal]

Ah yes, good old "I'd rather have a wrong answer than no answer at all." I believe there are very large groups of people throughout the world who base their lives on this principle.

[fobfob]

Ah yes, good old "I'd rather have a wrong answer than no answer at all."

I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks this. This thread has shown the damage that solman's hysterical and statistically meaningless poll has caused. That thread (the poll) should be locked and/or deleted.

Seriously folks, lets get real. Yes, some people are experiencing problems with their 27" iMacs. But there is no way for us, sitting on this one *rumors* site could have any idea of the numbers or proportion of people with problems. The best we can hope for is to find out the range of problems people are experiencing.

Whether these reported problems are sufficiently scary to stop you buying one, that is only for you to decide. Don't forget that you get a warranty. As for the poor fellow who is waiting to get his (apparently inevitably broken) iMac on Monday, get a life dude. Seriously, why worry? If something is wrong, go back to Apple. In the meantime, enjoy your weekend!

Typed on an i7 iMac that lost all bluetooth and most USB functionality today. Removed power for an hour, reapplied. All working. Should I put a sledgehammer through it?

[Btom]

...Typed on an i7 iMac that lost all bluetooth and most USB functionality today. Removed power for an hour, reapplied. All working...

You are kidding, right?

[Btom]

In the meantime the Dual core 27" iMac in my friendly BestBuy store got powered down, and the keyboard and mouse taken away. So now the Apple corner looks like this: an old 20" ON, an old 24" ON, a 24" cinema display ON, three laptops ON and the 27" just sitting, incomplete and powered down. Call me a paranoid moron, but the picture is not pretty. This would be probably the only non-operating computer displayed in the store...

[JimAtLaw]

I've my machine up and running since Tuesday morning, in use most of the day each day. I've had one screen blink accompanied by some artifacts in the upper left hand corner. When folks have gotten this, does it start off occasional and then become more frequent over time?

[esseff]

I've my machine up and running since Tuesday morning, in use most of the day each day. I've had one screen blink accompanied by some artifacts in the upper left hand corner. When folks have gotten this, does it start off occasional and then become more frequent over time?

Most of us are experiencing some or all of the issues described here, but many of us are having them show up very intermittently, in varying proportions. For me, first 4 days were minor screen flickering only, almost imperceptible. Then there were 3 days when the machine gave no indication that anything was wrong at all - no flickering, nothing. On the 8th day not only did I experience the flickering again, and a lot more noticeably, but the screen went black for half a second too. I shut down the Mac, unplugged it for 30 seconds and rebooted. Haven't seen another issue for 2 days. I'm in no doubt they will appear again because there is a fault. How often the symptoms show up is not the issue here. They shouldn't appear at all - not once. Apple are well aware of this issue and are replacing any machine that exhibits problems. You have a brand new, expensive, top of the line Mac. It should work flawlessly. If you've experienced some faulty behaviour then isn't there only one conclusion you can draw from it?

[solman]

Don't stand for anything less than perfection. Well, ok.. near perfection :p:D


My reply from another similar thread:

"Actually we had this conversation yesterday and why there's so many unhappy customers returning defective 27 inch iMac displays. I think 2 reasons:

1. Apple themselves have set the bar for quality and design excellence so high that people expect the very best.

2. At the prices Apple charge (relative to PC's), why shouldn't they be perfect?"

[Captain Spekkie]

Well i agree with all of you.

We should have the very best imac's out there, but i'm still not convinced the problem is hardware related.

Here is the reason.

I'm currently sitting at a LAN party in the Netherlands and its 5:50 local time.
My 27 inch iMac is having the intermitted flicker and bars issue. But only when on OSX!

When we Play Call Of Duty 4, i switch to Windows 7 trough bootcamp and when i'm there i don't have these issues. No the screen stays perfect in every way.

That tells me it has to be a driver related problem for OSX, not even de firmware of the card itself.

Don't know about other people running windows, but if they also have no problems in Windows then it should stand. :rolleyes:

[theheadguy]

I have a 21.5" stock iMac with the flickering issue.

My question is: has anybody already returned theirs and found this problem to be corrected?

I described the problem to the "apple tech" over the telephone and they e-mailed me some prepaid shipping labels. I would assume that if it was truly a software issue, they wouldn't pay to refurbish this for someone else and send a new one out to me... basic logic.

Regardless, I don't want to do it if they haven't made the change in the manufacturing process yet; or maybe we all just got a few lemons.

[robotkiller]

I have a 21.5" stock iMac with the flickering issue.

My question is: has anybody already returned theirs and found this problem to be corrected?

I described the problem to the "apple tech" over the telephone and they e-mailed me some prepaid shipping labels. I would assume that if it was truly a software issue, they wouldn't pay to refurbish this for someone else and send a new one out to me... basic logic.

Regardless, I don't want to do it if they haven't made the change in the manufacturing process yet; or maybe we all just got a few lemons.

I have. Received a replacement on Nov 13th. Perfect so far.

[miscend]

I'm sure you realize that poll is statistically worthless.

Right I'm sure you believe everyone is a liar. Don't forget the 2006-07 iMacs had screen issues too.

[miscend]

This is being blown way out of proportion. When I called Apple to inquire about my order I raised this issue. I was told that this was not an Apple-meltdown (my words). No one knows how many real problems there are but lack of an official announcement from Apple would indicate the world is not going to stop revolving. The 44 supposed problems may or may not be real since not everyone on this forum is an Apple fan. I feel bad for those who have encountered the problem but Apple will make it right. Not to downplay this but according to the Apple rep mega-thousands have been ordered. That may even be mega-ten-thousands. If thats true there are very few lemons. Car companies can only wish they had so few problems when compared to the number of cars manufactured. I know a few who have bought the new iMac and are totally in love with it and zero problems. They are first time Mac owners with many years of Windows experience. I visited my Apple store today and they have had no returns and no reported problems. The 44/59 thing has no meaning whatsoever statistically.
Cars are different to computers. Manufacturing defects in the computer industry are usually a combination of poor Q/A and aggressive cost cutting.The industry standard defect rate is about 5%.

[wwwjscom]

For the record, my mac arrived today (see sig for specs), and it has zero problems, screen or otherwise.

This computer blows me away...

[tclamp07]

For the record, my mac arrived today (see sig for specs), and it has zero problems, screen or otherwise.

This computer blows me away...

Just curious how your 2tb hdd is working for you? None of the reported excessive hdd noise?

[robotkiller]

Right I'm sure you believe everyone is a liar. Don't forget the 2006-07 iMacs had screen issues too.

No I don't. I'm sure they are all telling the truth. The poll itself is worthless because of sample selection bias.

[fakingbacon]

I've had my quad for just a few days, the flickering and screen black outs started on the first day that I started using it. Curiously I put it to sleep as it was driving me nuts and after waking it was fine. It's been good for the last 2 days with no problems. My supplier advised me to return it as I can get an exchange within 14 days. Don't know what to do now - chance it and hope it was a blip or take it in for a new one and go through the hassle and work of transferring all my saved stuff again???
:confused:

[Btom]

I've had my quad for just a few days, the flickering and screen black outs started on the first day that I started using it. Curiously I put it to sleep as it was driving me nuts and after waking it was fine. It's been good for the last 2 days with no problems. My supplier advised me to return it as I can get an exchange within 14 days. Don't know what to do now - chance it and hope it was a blip or take it in for a new one and go through the hassle and work of transferring all my saved stuff again???
:confused:

fakingbacon,

The poll thread was closed, but the poll site is still functioning, you can check it (and even vote) here (http://www.acepolls.com/polls/1058699-poll-does-your-27-inch-have-a-screen-problem). Some of the guys were reporting screen blinking 3 weeks down the line, some were exchanging computers 2 and 3 (I think) times.

Tom B.

[dwarnecke11]

Right. I've had my i5 for 6 days now and just yesterday I experienced the flicker for the first time. Just a very brief little glitch on the screen. I figure theres no point in exchanging it since the problem seems to be so widespread. I don't think Apple has changed anything yet with the hardware.

If this is a serious issue Apple will issue a service recall of some kind and I'll have my unit repaired or replaced free of charge regardless of how old it is or whether or not it is still covered by AppleCare.

I'm hoping this can be fixed via firmware update. I doesn't strike me as a hardware issue with the display itself.

[Btom]

.....

I'm hoping this can be fixed via firmware update. I doesn't strike me as a hardware issue with the display itself.

There was one report, that an external display was working flawlessly, even if the main one was blacking out on and off at the same time. Also in some cases adding an UPS was fixing the problem. This would point to a hardware issue (or a very weird firmware one).

Tom B.

[dwarnecke11]

There was one report, that an external display was working flawlessly, even if the main one was blacking out on and off at the same time. Also in some cases adding an UPS was fixing the problem. This would point to a hardware issue (or a very weird firmware one).

Tom B.

Yeah, I'm having doubts. I'm so conflicted right now. My iMac has only had two very brief flickers since I bought it last Wednesday (11/25) and nothing like the insane, constant flickering shown on some of the youtube videos. I have until next Wednesday to refund it (screw exchanging it! Apple hasn't fixed anything yet!). I hope Apple releases a statement about this so I can decide what to do.

[Btom]

Yeah, I'm having doubts. I'm so conflicted right now. My iMac has only had two very brief flickers since I bought it last Wednesday (11/25) and nothing like the insane, constant flickering shown on some of the youtube videos. I have until next Wednesday to refund it (screw exchanging it! Apple hasn't fixed anything yet!). I hope Apple releases a statement about this so I can decide what to do.

I decided to take a plunge, I really think that the screen is awesome (I do digital photography) and will see. If this is a hardware issue, Apple will likely make a recall, since number of affected computers seem to be substantial, I'd think some time after the New Year.

Tom B.

[dwarnecke11]

I decided to take a plunge, I really think that the screen is awesome (I do digital photography) and will see. If this is a hardware issue, Apple will likely make a recall, since number of affected computers seem to be substantial, I'd think some time after the New Year.

Tom B.

Yeah, I figure if its a hardware issue Apple will have to issue a recall, 14 day grace period or not. In the meantime I guess I can live with 1 or two glitches per week. I just wish I had some kind of guarantee saying "don't worry about the 14 day period, we've got your back" but Apple hasn't spoken a word about this yet.

[Michaelgtrusa]

Here's another one. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_OqnfrRurA&feature=sub

[Btom]

Yeah, I figure if its a hardware issue Apple will have to issue a recall, 14 day grace period or not. In the meantime I guess I can live with 1 or two glitches per week. I just wish I had some kind of guarantee saying "don't worry about the 14 day period, we've got your back" but Apple hasn't spoken a word about this yet.


Just read an interesting piece on the cause of the iMac display problems (unconfirmed as yet). Apparently one of the Apple reps made a statement, that the cause of the intermittent misbehavior is some inside screen connector not being positively inserted.

Yep, it would do it...

Note to myself: Have to try to gently tap my new computer with a rubber mallet.

Tom B.

[dwarnecke11]

Just read an interesting piece on the cause of the iMac display problems (unconfirmed as yet). Apparently one of the Apple reps made a statement, that the cause of the intermittent misbehavior is some inside screen connector not being positively inserted.

Yep, it would do it...

Note to myself: Have to try to gently tap my new computer with a rubber mallet.

Tom B.
I don't see how its that simple. I have heard this theory and one forum user (either here or on Apple support forums) had the cable replaced/reseated but the flickering remained. I can shake my desk with no flickering but every day or so I'll get one without any provocation.

[Btom]

I don't see how its that simple. I have heard this theory and one forum user (either here or on Apple support forums) had the cable replaced/reseated but the flickering remained. I can shake my desk with no flickering but every day or so I'll get one without any provocation.

Yep, it is never quite simple. Random flickers could happen, for example, due to thermal expansion and contraction on the unseated connector. Could be also overlapping of two, or more causes. We'll know for sure if, and this is a big if, Apple will tell. But the good news is, that some of their other products do not flicker at random, so apparently they have the technology...

Tom B.

[Trek2100]

I decided to take a plunge, I really think that the screen is awesome (I do digital photography) and will see. If this is a hardware issue, Apple will likely make a recall, since number of affected computers seem to be substantial, I'd think some time after the New Year.

Tom B.

I'm on day 9 with the i7 and not a glitch:). Some of those days it was on 12 to 14 hours. I've watched many YouTube videos and yesterday played 8 movie trailers with quickTime simultaneously. That was a hoot. I do digital photography as well. I just closed my wedding business this year. I've played around with some photos and this display is truly awesome. I keep the brightness slightly over halfway as my iMac is downstairs in the basement where I had my office. Prolonged use at a higher level really hurts my eyes and gives me a headache. If I had a lot of sunlight I suppose it wouldn't be as bad at a higher setting. Best wishes with your upcoming "beast".

[Btom]

I'm on day 9 with the i7 and not a glitch:). Some of those days it was on 12 to 14 hours. I've watched many YouTube videos and yesterday played 8 movie trailers with quickTime simultaneously. That was a hoot. I do digital photography as well. I just closed my wedding business this year. I've played around with some photos and this display is truly awesome. I keep the brightness slightly over halfway as my iMac is downstairs in the basement where I had my office. Prolonged use at a higher level really hurts my eyes and gives me a headache. If I had a lot of sunlight I suppose it wouldn't be as bad at a higher setting. Best wishes with your upcoming "beast".

Thanks a lot. I was planning to follow my son's steps for some time and switch (he was really a PC expert, but switched to Mac - the first blue semi-transparent one - and never looked back, still does his chores helping me with my PC though). I like the iMac concept and with the new 27" you can't really go wrong (it will not be the real beast, just the i5).

I am planning to do high brightness - low brightness exercises at the beginning (some people were reporting problems while doing similar sequence), but I like it bright and saturated to know how far I can go and when I want to "wow".

By the way, does "Trek2100" refer to a bicycle by any chance?

Tom B.

[emediately]

My iMac's 27in (Duo Core) flickers also and has blackouts. However it's not often. And solving it would be as simple as putting the computer to sleep, and waking it up again. Weird. Flickers disappear. Right away. After it has been on for a while.. I'm definitely mad at Apple. It'll be my 2nd replacement. 1st one had a HD defect. And this one has display.

[trollied]

W89472***** serial number, i5. Started flickering this morning.

Just got off the phone with support and they're going to build and ship a new one immediately, to arrive in 7-10 days. A courier will pick this one up some time next week.

Must say, it's probably the best customer service experience I've ever had. They offered a replacement straight away - no questions asked.

[JimAtLaw]

Yep, it is never quite simple. Random flickers could happen, for example, due to thermal expansion and contraction on the unseated connector. Could be also overlapping of two, or more causes. We'll know for sure if, and this is a big if, Apple will tell. But the good news is, that some of their other products do not flicker at random, so apparently they have the technology...
A lot of us will not buy another one unless/until they do tell - I spent over $4000 on a machine that was defective and then had to waste hours returning it.

There is clearly a problem with the production line and/or the parts they're using, there are way too many reports of the same issues including multiple reports of people getting replacement machines with the same problem, etc. I don't want to have to go buy something else, but I need a new machine sooner than later and will not get another one knowing that they have not addressed the problem - g-d knows how it might manifest years down the road (or 3 years and 1 day, to be precise) even if your machine is not flickering today.

Apple needs to come clean here, this is not cool. When the issues have risen to the level of being covered in the Times, you'd think this is something they would try to address head-on.

[Btom]

....

Apple needs to come clean here, this is not cool. When the issues have risen to the level of being covered in the Times, you'd think this is something they would try to address head-on.

JimAtLaw,

Apparently Times is not what it used to be...

Still, most of the Mac oldtimers seem to be very dedicated to the company. Apple is probably working on this issue as we speak and will try to satisfy all unlucky customers. They likely weighted the pre-Christmas sales and bad publicity versus pissed off/lost customers, and chosen sales.

It is also unfortunate, that this site in it's wisdom closed some threads discussing this issue.

Tom B.

[Trek2100]

Thanks a lot. I was planning to follow my son's steps for some time and switch (he was really a PC expert, but switched to Mac - the first blue semi-transparent one - and never looked back, still does his chores helping me with my PC though). I like the iMac concept and with the new 27" you can't really go wrong (it will not be the real beast, just the i5).

I am planning to do high brightness - low brightness exercises at the beginning (some people were reporting problems while doing similar sequence), but I like it bright and saturated to know how far I can go and when I want to "wow".

By the way, does "Trek2100" refer to a bicycle by any chance?

Tom B.

Guilty as charged. I love the Trek:). Bought it new in September although it is a 2007 model that is no longer made. It seems that bicycles, like motorcycles, can be bought new and are a couple of years old.

[dwarnecke11]

Good news, everyone. I got a full refund today. My Week 45 i5 flickered four times in the past week and it went back. When I walked in, about four employees asked me "what's up" and ushered me to the genius bar. They then took my packaged iMac to the back to have a look. I told them that I doubt they'd see anything since the problem was so rare and intermittent. So I waited, and pulled up this thread on one of the nearby iMacs to show them if needed. Less than two minutes later, the packaged iMac came out from "the back" again and the manager was already refunding my credit card. The entire amount, to the cent. I know they couldn't have possibly unboxed and checked the iMac back there in two minutes, so I assume the technician is aware of the issue and didn't even bother to have a look. They didn't even ask if I wanted to exchange it instead.

So, while I'm dissappointed in Apple's quality control with this first round of iMacs, I'm impressed with their customer service. A full refund ($2053.29) in less than five minutes.

[emediately]

Just got a new replacement again. It's my 3rd iMac. Lol. So far everything is cool. Hope it stays like that :D

[karolynaz]

I just wanted to add, that 7 from 10 first gen. unibody Macbook Pro's, when you using Nvidia 9400 graphics card, have the same display flickering problem almost for 1 year and Apple don't care to fix this. So my advice: take back your money and buy some dell or something. :(

p.s. one more thing - with Macbook Pro you can fix the flickering if you change your logic board (you will be so lucky that you get that 3 out of 10). Changing video card don't get you nowhere.

[ADaMac]

My 27" iMac likes to scroll the screen and freeze. It pretty annoying but I think turning down the brightness DOES help. Heres a picture of the offending iMac when the screen is screwed up: http://adamac.org/27-imac-screen-flashing

[Btom]

My 27" iMac likes to scroll the screen and freeze. It pretty annoying but I think turning down the brightness DOES help. Heres a picture of the offending iMac when the screen is screwed up: http://adamac.org/27-imac-screen-flashing

Maybe replacing computer could solve this problem??

Tom B.

[mistraldk]

Mine did the same (flickering &scrolling) just before the video card crapped out completely. After 3 weeks of waiting and selling my left kidney to buy one all I have is just an expensive mirror...

[robitay]

Mine did the same (flickering &scrolling) just before the video card crapped out completely. After 3 weeks of waiting and selling my left kidney to buy one all I have is just an expensive mirror...

Take it or send it back for a refund or replacement :rolleyes:

[mistraldk]

Take it or send it back for a refund or replacement :rolleyes:

'take it back' is impossible where I live.
Apple will have it collected and send me a new one.

[robitay]

'take it back' is impossible where I live.
Apple will have it collected and send me a new one.

Well you paid good money for it, so get them to collect it and exchange it

[mistraldk]

Well you paid good money for it, so get them to collect it and exchange it

Is being arranged at the moment, am waiting for ETA of new system.

[SkyFox244]

Is being arranged at the moment, am waiting for ETA of new system.

How can you see the order info if it's being replaced?
Logging in the apple account shows the pervious order statistics.
I issued a replacement by calling Apple care / tech guy..
The only thing i got is an e-mail with a link that shows my order, but it is not directly linked to my apple account. The question is: what are you seeing in the order stats? Do you know if this is normal?

[spcdust]

How can you see the order info if it's being replaced?
Logging in the apple account shows the pervious order statistics.
I issued a replacement by calling Apple care / tech guy..
The only thing i got is an e-mail with a link that shows my order, but it is not directly linked to my apple account. The question is: what are you seeing in the order stats? Do you know if this is normal?

I'm also getting a replacement which they have processed under the same order number - therefore unable to track the replacement as all I see is the original order details. Like yourself I received an order confirmation e-mail with an estimated despatch date. I checked with the person I'm dealing with at Apple and they said this is normal and that I should be able to track the replacement once it has shipped, also they said just to e-mail them at anytime if I wish them to check.

Have been very impressed with Apples exemplary handling of my issue, which was a noisy 1TB HDD, they've allowed me to keep my faulty iMac until the replacement is delivered and been extremely helpful. Things go wrong, it's how a company deal with these situations which distinguishes Apple from the competition.

[SkyFox244]

I'm also getting a replacement which they have processed under the same order number - therefore unable to track the replacement as all I see is the original order details. Like yourself I received an order confirmation e-mail with an estimated despatch date. I checked with the person I'm dealing with at Apple and they said this is normal and that I should be able to track the replacement once it has shipped, also they said just to e-mail them at anytime if I wish them to check.

Have been very impressed with Apples exemplary handling of my issue, which was a noisy 1TB HDD, they've allowed me to keep my faulty iMac until the replacement is delivered and been extremely helpful. Things go wrong, it's how a company deal with these situations which distinguishes Apple from the competition.

Okay thanks..
I was wondering if the dates will change in the order.
And if not so; what will happen to the 14 days return policy.
Is it gone or will it be renewed tot the new sending date.
Did they tell you?

[ADaMac]

I believe this issue is software/driver based. I loaded 10.6.2 from scratch as per Apple tech support. The problem reappeared a few hours after reload. So I decided to install bootcamp and load XP SP3. After 4 days, no screen flickering or rolling. Interesting, I wrote an article about it:
http://adamac.org/27-imac-screen-problems-are-driver-related
Can anybody else confirm this on their hardware?

[kfscoll]

I believe this issue is software/driver based. I loaded 10.6.2 from scratch as per Apple tech support. The problem reappeared a few hours after reload. So I decided to install bootcamp and load XP SP3. After 4 days, no screen flickering or rolling. Interesting, I wrote an article about it:
http://adamac.org/27-imac-screen-problems-are-driver-related
Can anybody else confirm this on their hardware?

Not to be pessimistic, but just wait. Almost every combination of hardware/software restarts and reinstalls has been tried to little or no effect (check the thread over on the Apple support forums).

[ADaMac]

Not to be pessimistic, but just wait. Almost every combination of hardware/software restarts and reinstalls has been tried to little or no effect (check the thread over on the Apple support forums).

You were right, on the fifth day now and XP started flickering exactly like OSX. I was wrong in believing this was a software/driver issue. I'll see what components Apple replaces when they come onsite.

[hakr]

Let's see if I have this straight:

A certain unknown percentage of new iMacs with the 27" screen:

1 develop a "flicker" for reasons yet unknown.

2 have a yellowish tinge across the bottom of the screen.

3 have really noisy hard drives.

4 arrive with cracks in the glass screen cover.

And in terms of remedies:

5 loading all software fresh rather than a restore from a Time Machine
backup either does or does not make a difference in re: flickers.

6 doing a hardware reset does or does not resolve the problem.

7 Apple has slowed manufacturing from 7/10 days to 14 days to fix the problem or...the slowdown has nothing to do with the problem.

8 No one here actually knows what the problems are and if Apple does, "she ain't talkin'"

Have I missed anything? :(

[ADaMac]

Apple is coming out tomorrow with a new LCD panel and a vertical sync cable. They told me if any other machines exhibit the same issues to tell the phone support that I need a new LCD and vertical sync cable. We'll see what the tech has to say tomorrow.

[hakr]

Apple is coming out tomorrow with a new LCD panel and a vertical sync cable. They told me if any other machines exhibit the same issues to tell the phone support that I need a new LCD and vertical sync cable. We'll see what the tech has to say tomorrow.

If you don't mind, what is the source for the "Apple is coming out..." news flash? And who is supposed to install a new LCD and sync cable?

[karolynaz]

hakr > it's nvidia + logicboard problem. 'cause Macbook Pro have the same random flickering.

[kfscoll]

hakr > it's nvidia + logicboard problem. 'cause Macbook Pro have the same random flickering.
No offense, but that's the most retarded thing I've read in a while. All of the 27" iMacs have ATI video cards! Only one of the new iMacs has NVIDIA graphics, and it's the base 21.5" system with the integrated 9400M chipset.

Now, the iMacs with the Core 2 Duo processor might have NVIDIA logic board chipsets (I'm not sure about this and am too lazy to confirm), but that can't be the cause of the problem. Why? NVIDIA doesn't even make a chipset solution that supports the Nehalem (i5/i7) architecture -- the platform upon which a significant subset of iMac flickering problems is occurring.

[Mazz]

Read the first reply for the entry, the one written by HTPCJunkie http://www.internetnews.com/hardware/article.php/3853291/Largest+iMacs+Plagued+With+Delays+Problems.htm

Looks like a nice lead for the problem/solution...

[ADaMac]

If you don't mind, what is the source for the "Apple is coming out..." news flash? And who is supposed to install a new LCD and sync cable?

I work at a college so we get next day onsite service. An Apple tech came out and replaced the LCD screen and the vertical sync cable. After two hours, the problem re-appeared. I'm guessing next they'll want to replace the logic board.

[dearmariana]

I've got the new 27" iMac with 2.8 GHz Intel Core i7 processor. The graphics card is the ATI Radeon HD 4850.

Mine is not as bad as some of the videos I have seen on here, but it does go to black for a split second every 30 seconds or so and there are little black bands across the screen every once in a while as well.

When we first got it, it was delivered with condensation on it because it had apparently been stored outside in the freezing cold. I thought it might have had something to do with that. Then it seemed to stop for a while, so I thought maybe I was crazy.

Now it's back and after reading all of these comments about the same thing, I'm beyond frustrated.

Plus, I'm in Italy... where returning things or having something fixed takes about 12 years. It's hard to nkow what to do because we already jumped right in to using it for our office... it would be hard to go back... even temporarily.

If you're reading this and considering purchasing a new iMac... I would wait and see if this problem gets addressed.

[Btom]

Let's see if I have this straight:

A certain unknown percentage of new iMacs with the 27" screen:

1 develop a "flicker" for reasons yet unknown.

2 have a yellowish tinge across the bottom of the screen.

3 have really noisy hard drives.

4 arrive with cracks in the glass screen cover.

And in terms of remedies:

5 loading all software fresh rather than a restore from a Time Machine
backup either does or does not make a difference in re: flickers.

6 doing a hardware reset does or does not resolve the problem.

7 Apple has slowed manufacturing from 7/10 days to 14 days to fix the problem or...the slowdown has nothing to do with the problem.

8 No one here actually knows what the problems are and if Apple does, "she ain't talkin'"

Have I missed anything? :(

Your list is about right.
But for now Apple is busy with: !!THE TABLET!!, the best thing since sliced bread (according to the hype).

Tom B.

[hakr]

Your list is about right.
But for now Apple is busy with: !!THE TABLET!!, the best thing since sliced bread (according to the hype).

Tom B.


Why anyone wants to walk around with a "tablet" computer is beyond me. And a touch screen? Perfect place to store those fingerprints and the greasy drippings from lunch. :eek:

Hey, I don't even have an iPhone, and apparently am the only apple computer user in the USA without one. All I want from a cellphone is a good phone with plenty of volume and a screen that is easy to read in bright daylight. No apps. You guys be sure to let me know when apple has a phone like that! :D

[OasisNYK]

I have had mine since the end of December and it does have slight yellow tinge, as well as light bleed on the bottom of the screen when watching movies with letterbox etc.

I did not send it back for an exchange because everything else is fine (HD, no flicker) and I figured I would wait until Apple sorts out the QC issues before I call them up.

Will apple care still cover these issues in a couple of months or should I have just exchanged it?

[Ecoh]

I have had mine since the end of December and it does have slight yellow tinge, as well as light bleed on the bottom of the screen when watching movies with letterbox etc.

I did not send it back for an exchange because everything else is fine (HD, no flicker) and I figured I would wait until Apple sorts out the QC issues before I call them up.

Will apple care still cover these issues in a couple of months or should I have just exchanged it?

I called Apple in November about the yellow gradient on my screen. It was a very busy time for me and I did not have time to exchange a computer, and I needed it for my work. Apple told me if I did not want to send it back I could wait and have it repaired at a later time. Since I opened up a case with them, there is at least a year that I can wait. If you have the extended Applecare you will have 3 years.

[wesleyh]

Mine did not flicker. Until now. 1 month after purchase (using daily) I have just experienced the first flicker.. The past few days I have also had 2 or 3 occasions of the screen making a buzzing sound when the screen is dimmed too much, turning it up and the sound is gone.

So for those that think your screen is fine, it can happen at any time.. I thought mine was fine!

[OasisNYK]

I called Apple in November about the yellow gradient on my screen. It was a very busy time for me and I did not have time to exchange a computer, and I needed it for my work. Apple told me if I did not want to send it back I could wait and have it repaired at a later time. Since I opened up a case with them, there is at least a year that I can wait. If you have the extended Applecare you will have 3 years.

So are you still waiting until they sort it out to get it fixed? Personally I do not want to play roulette with them because not only is it frustrating but it is also a tremendous waste of resources.