Mac mini (2009), Apple logo, no progress bar, doesn't respond to keyboard, no sounds.

[dervxerox]

Hi, I'm completely new to Macs.
I acquired a Mac mini (2009)
When I switch it on I get the Apple logo, no progress bar, no response to keyboard, no sounds.
I've left it running for an hour with no change.
Holding the power button for a while turns it off.
Could someone please tell me what the problem might be and some tests I could perform?

 

[Cory Cooper]

Hello and welcome.

• Where did you purchase it from?
• Did they state there were any issues or that it didn't not have OS X/macOS installed?

C

 

[dervxerox]

I got it on ebay. They said it had worked but couldn't test. I bought it with the idea of running Batocera OS on it.

 

[Cory Cooper]

Hello,

Here are a couple of good Apple articles that may help troubleshoot it:

• Use Apple Diagnostics to test your Mac
• If your Mac doesn't start up all the way

See if either of those help sort it out. I had never heard of Batocera OS until your post! I would make sure the Mac is functioning first, then checkout their website to download and install Linux.

C

 

[dervxerox]

I think one problem is it's not responding to a keyboard. I pulled the hard drive, it's fine but appears to have windows and bootcamp on it.

 

[Nurgle2024]

here are the keyboard commands to use at start up.
you must hold these keys down as you power on.
regards, sandy

 

[dervxerox]

It turns out it's a 2006 not a 2009.
I think the optical drive is OK. I do get the start-up sound.
I managed to get it to boot in single user mode and pictures is the text that appeared before it froze.
Sorry for small size, It wouldn't let me upload larger.

 

[Nurgle2024]

It turns out it's a 2006 not a 2009.
I think the optical drive is OK. I do get the start-up sound.
I managed to get it to boot in single user mode and pictures is the text that appeared before it froze.
Sorry for small size, It wouldn't let me upload larger.

View attachment 4461

That is a UNIX Kernel Panic screen.. means you may have to reinstall the system. as something is seriously gone wrong... try starting in 'Recovery' mode, by holding down the R key or command & R, keys when you turn it on. it will need to be connected to the internet, as I may download the system data from there. there are also the other re-install keys in that list i put up. Regards, Sandy