"You need to restart your computer"

Discussion in 'Mac Basics and Help' started by twomiracles, Jan 10, 2007.

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  1. twomiracles, Jan 10, 2007

    twomiracles macrumors regular

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    #1
    is that normal? It just came up suddenly and told me to either hold down the power button for a few seconds or something else, can't remember what option B was...is that normal?
     
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  2. WildCowboy, Jan 10, 2007

    WildCowboy Administrator/Editor

    WildCowboy

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    #2
    That was a kernel panic. It's not normal, and it's obviously not a thing you want to see. But they do happen from time to time. If it only happens once, it's no big deal...just reboot and carry on. But make a note of what you were doing when it happened. If it happens again soon, it's time to figure out what's going on. Bad RAM is usually at the top of the list of suspects, but it can be any one of a large number of things causing it.
     
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  3. dllavaneras, Jan 10, 2007

    dllavaneras macrumors 68000

    dllavaneras

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    #3
    Wow, I've only had that happen once or twice in the last 8 years! It's not normal at all. That's when the computer freezes really really bad :( I just restarted and had no problem afterwards, but I don't know if there's anything else you can do
     
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  4. Mitthrawnuruodo, Jan 10, 2007

    Mitthrawnuruodo Moderator emeritus

    Mitthrawnuruodo

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    #4
    Sounds like a Kernel Panic.

    Nothing to worry about if it is a one time occurrence, though make sure you have current backup of all your most important data (like photos, work, etc). Kernel Panics can be caused both by shady software (the official But Torrent client played havoc with my old machine a couple of years ago) or failing or poorly fastened hardware (bad RAM, loose wiring or airport antenna or similar).

    If it becomes a regular event (and you're not running any weird software like bit torrent or system hacks) it's time to take it back to the store (or, if it's out of warranty, to a service provider), and get the hardware checked out.
     
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  5. TheAnswer, Jan 10, 2007

    TheAnswer macrumors 68030

    TheAnswer

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    #5
    Since you just had this problem where it looked like the desktop folder wasn't behaving properly...and now this, I'm gonna recommend you rebuild permissions following the steps in this guide.

    Also...post what you were doing at the time of the kernel panic in case someone might be able to see a possible connection between the two.
     
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  6. twomiracles, Jan 10, 2007

    twomiracles thread starter macrumors regular

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    Dec 30, 2006
    #6
    I honestly can't remember that I was doing anything extraordinary and it was such a shock when it happened, I just did what it said. It did ask, though, when I restarted, if I wanted to send a report and I did. I have put a few things on here, but no hacks or anything that I didn't find at download.com or versiontracker.com . I'll check out the links, TheAnswer. I did hae RAM put in it when I bought it, but it is PNY brand, which is pretty good and it's two matching sticks, so I'd hope that isn't the problem. If it happens again, though, I'll definitely be getting with the local Apple store where I bought it.

    Thanks!
     
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  7. UnitedRed, Jan 11, 2007

    UnitedRed macrumors member

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    #7
    had my first one earlier on, I was right in the middle of photoshop too which didn't make me too happy, luckily I had saved my work not long before
     
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  8. savanahrose, Jan 11, 2007

    savanahrose macrumors 6502a

    savanahrose

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    greer SC
    #8
    I just had one the other day also. I didn't realize what it was, it didn't faze me in the least. I guess I just got used to it while using windows. I just restarted it and haven't had any more problems. Next time I will keep an eye on it.
     
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