Mac Mini won't respond to system controls?

[Pandalorian]

Hello,

I have a one month old mac mini 2012, and for the last week or so the software controls (sleep, shut down, restart) have been completely useless. Shut down does nothing (i've waited for 20 minutes and nothing) and then i'll launch an app minutes later, and the system claims the launching of that app cancelled shut down...

I've always had to hold down the power button and I wish the on-screen controls would work again. Any insight or suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[old-wiz]

this is not normal behavior. what do you have running on your system? Have you tried to repair permissions?

 

[Pandalorian]

Yes, I've repaired permissions, and reset the PRAM. Should I try an SMC reset?

 

[Elbert C]

Twenty steps to help diagnose and fix system issues

 

[Fishrrman]

I realize this may sound obvious, but have you tried just pulling the plug, waiting a minute, plugging the Mini back in and pushing the power-on button?