iMac g5 - how much noise is too much?

Discussion in 'Macintosh Computers' started by memphismac, Feb 17, 2005.

  1. macrumors member

    Oct 22, 2003
    Just got a new stock 17" superdrive iMac Tuesday night, and I notice a slight hum/buz during general operation. But I don't know if I notice it because it's abnormal, or because I've read so much about it.

    I'm planning on ordering another 512 RAM, but I want to make sure I have the noise issue (or non-issue resolved).

    How much noise is too much (and worthy of a repair attempt)?
  2. macrumors 6502

    Aug 29, 2004
    I've just had mine back from having the same issue, and have been told that it's perfectly normal.

    The thing with the iMac isn't necessarily the noise it makes; it's quite quiet, but it's the pitch of th fans that are annoying.
  3. macrumors 601


    Feb 10, 2004
    I just got a new iMac 17", and it's quite loud as well. I just got off the phone with AppleCare and they basically told me they know about the problem, don't have a fix for it, and don't care. They offered to do nothing at all about it.

    I'm going to wait untill next week and see if they release a new iMac (who knows, right?) and if they do I am going to take it back, ask for a full refund and use it to get a new iMac. Otherwise, I'm not sure if I will keep it or if I will return it and maybe try something else.

    This computer is definately not whisper quiet, and I am certain it is louder than the demo models in the store, yet after talking to a customer care rep and then a 'product specialist' they offered to do absolutely nothing. Really kind of frustrating.

  4. macrumors 6502a

    Jun 18, 2004
    I don't know what to make of this topic. Are some iMacs loud & annoying, or is it just that a computer that is normally under your desk or behind a screen is now right in front of your face?

    My iMac G5 is way quieter than any PC I have used (ok that is not saying much), quieter than my dual 2.5 at work, although not as quiet as the powerbook. Although I haven't measured it, it probably is "whisper quiet" by decibel ratings. However, I can hear it, it is not absolutely silent.

    All I can say is that I am either thankful I have a quiet machine (with a low pitch), or that I am not that sensitive to the sound it makes.
    Based on what I've read, I think the quiet hum you're describing probably would not be amenable to being fixed (nor would Apple try).

Share This Page