iMac (Mid 2007) and later models: About startup tones

Summary

iMac (Mid 2007) and later model iMac computers, unlike other Macintosh computers, do not use the power LED to indicate there is an issue. iMac (Mid 2007) and later model iMac computers use tones instead.

The following table lists the new tones and their meaning:

1 tone, a 5-second pause, repeat No RAM installed
3 successive tones, a 5-second pause, 3 successive tones RAM does not pass data integrity check
1 long tone when holding down the power button Firmware upgrade in process. See About firmware updates for Intel-based Macs for more details.
3 long tones, 3 short tones, 3 long tones Firmware restoration from CD in process. See About the Firmware Restoration CD (Intel-based Macs) for more details.
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