The DC-to-DC converter card in the Power Mac G4 Cube computer may move slightly out of its connector during shipping, causing the computer not to turn on when the power button is touched. This article explains how to reinsert the card to correct this issue.

Symptom

The computer's power button lights up when touched, but goes out as soon as you remove your finger, and the computer does not turn on.

Note: You may also notice the Power Mac G4 Cube starting up or shutting down by itself.

Product affected

Power Mac G4 Cube

Solution

Sometimes the DC-to-DC converter card may move slightly out of its connector during shipping, causing the computer not to turn on when the power button is touched. To correct this, the card needs to be pressed firmly back into its slot.

Warning : Read and follow the ESD precautions outlined in the 'Working Inside Your Computer' section of the "About the Power Mac G4 Cube" owners manual.

To reinsert the DC-to-DC converter into its connector, follow these steps:

1. Shut down the computer.

2. Remove all cables connected to the computer.

3. Remove the computer's core from the its enclosure by turning it upside-down on a soft surface, and pushing down on the latch.



Figure 1 . Removing core

4. Turn the computer so the video card is on top.

5. Find the DC-to-DC converter card (pictured below in Figure 2).

6. Push down on the card to ensure it is securely in its connector.



Figure 2 . Pushing the DC-to-DC converter

7. As shown in the photo, make sure the latch on the connector the card sits in is secure in the notch of the card.



Figure 3 . Latch on connector

8. Reinsert the core back into the enclosure, and push down on the latch until it locks into place.
Note : The core fits into the enclosure only one way. The ports should face the back of the enclosure.



Figure 4 . Reinserting core

9. Turn on the computer.

For further troubleshooting, refer to the troubleshooting section in the "About the Power Mac G4 Cube" owners manual.