iMac won't boot up

[Topher15]

My 2007 iMac (running Snow Leopard) will not boot inito OS X.

The internal drive doesn't show as mounted in Disk Utility (via install disc 1).

I've tried to do a Safe Boot by holding shift and took a photo of what appeared on screen. Does this give you any indication of the issue and how to resolve it.

I was advised to run Apple Hardware Test via install disc 2, however the iMac keeps ejecting disc 2.

It's not a massive issue as I've got a new iMac on order and I have a Time Machine backup on an external drive. If I can get into the 2007 iMac I can check that my backup is the latest.

Thanks in advance.

 

[JohnDS]

When you are in disk utility while booted from the DVD, can you run Repair Disk? Also, what does Disk Utility show for the S.M.A.R.T. status of your drive (in the lower right of the window)?

 

[Topher15]

When you are in disk utility while booted from the DVD, can you run Repair Disk? Also, what does Disk Utility show for the S.M.A.R.T. status of your drive (in the lower right of the window)?

The internal drive doesn't show in Disk Utility.

 

[JohnDS]

OK. You had said it didn't mount. That is different from not showing up altogether. It sounds like the drive is toast.

 

[Fishrrman]

Agreed with JohnDS above.

The computer is approaching 9 years old.
There's a high possibility that the internal drive has failed.

If you can boot from a DVD, and then get to Disk Utility, and then -- no sign of the internal drive, this would tend to confirm that possibility.

Actually, 9 years is A LOT of use to get from a computer these days.
Be glad you got that far.
It's time to start shopping for something new, or perhaps a factory-refurbished Mac from the Apple online store...

 

[Ebenezum]

While I agree that the hard drive is likely failed replacing it isn't too difficult if you are careful. Instructions on iFixit for 20-inc model. Compared to Mac Mini process is relatively easy.

On the other hand if opening iMac isn't something you are comfortable then you might be able to sell the iMac for spare parts.