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Hi everyone,


My iMac keeps getting stuck on the start-up screen (grey with the rotating circle thing) and never reaches the login screen. I have tried all of the hold down the 'command' key, put in Mac OS X disc and hold the 'c' key down, hold down the 'shift' key etc. troubleshooting recommendations I can find online but... My keyboard hasn't been functioning properly either. I think it's a computer issue and not a keyboard issue because the keyboard is getting power (when I hit the caplocks key it lights up).


So onto my question: does anyone know how to reboot an iMac without using a keyboard?


Thanks a million in advance for anyone with suggestions. I have been working on this for the last 6+ hours and am ready to pull my hair out.


(p.s. I brought the computer over with me from the US but now live in the Philippines. Because of my location I would rather not bring it into a Mac store as I don't really trust the service I might get there with Apple products)

iMac, iMac 24in 2008 model

Posted on Sep 24, 2013 1:48 AM

If you think your Mac might have a hardware issue, you can use Apple Diagnostics to help determine which hardware component might be at fault. Apple Diagnostics also suggests solutions and helps you contact Apple Support for assistance.

Prepare your Mac

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Disconnect all external devices except keyboard, mouse, display, Ethernet connection (if applicable), and connection to AC power.
  3. Make sure that your Mac is on a hard, flat, stable surface with good ventilation.

Start Apple Diagnostics

Determine whether you're using a Mac with Apple silicon, then follow the appropriate steps:

Apple silicon

  1. Turn on your Mac and continue to press and hold the power button as your Mac starts up.
  2. Release when you see the startup options window, which includes a gear icon labeled Options.
  3. Press Command (⌘)-D on your keyboard.
Imac 2014 Keyboard

Intel processor

  1. Turn on your Mac, then immediately press and hold the D key on your keyboard as your Mac starts up.
  2. Release when you see a progress bar or you're asked to choose a language.

View the test results

Apple Diagnostics shows a progress bar while it's checking your Mac:

When testing is complete, Apple Diagnostics shows the results, including one or more reference codes. Learn about Apple Diagnostics reference codes.

To repeat the test, click “Run the test again” or press Command-R.

To restart your Mac, click Restart or press R.

Imac 2014 Ports

To shut down, click Shut Down or press S.

Imac 2014 Keyboard Shortcut

To get information about your service and support options, make sure that your Mac is connected to the internet, then click ”Get started” or press Command-G. Your Mac will restart to a webpage with more information. When you're done, choose Restart or Shut Down from the Apple menu.

Learn more

Imac 2014 Keyboard App

On an Intel-based Mac, if you can't start Apple Diagnostics with the D key, try these solutions:

  • Press and hold Option-D at startup to use Apple Diagnostics over the internet.
  • Make sure that your Mac isn't using a firmware password.