What Is iMac Firmware?
Apple Computer's iMac models contain many different firmware elements that control their various basic hardware components. Over time Apple provides updates to these programs to improve system performance and address problems. It is strongly recommended that users install updates as they become available.
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The Facts
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Firmware is a small program written to a piece of dedicated memory. Many programmable consumer electronics, from remote controls all the way to computers, contain firmware. Apple periodically offers updates for its proprietary iMac hardware as well as other internal components, including the optical drive. Depending on the iMac's model, core system updates can be distinguished by their name: EFI and SMC updates concern the motherboard and other core elements.
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Issues
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Since the iMac's introduction in 1998, Apple has addressed many performance problems in the machines, including updates to ATI and Nvidia graphics cards, hard drives, cooling fans, motherboards, system controllers, optical drives, keyboards and LCD and CRT screens. Any users experiencing unexplainable problems like random crashes, strange fan noises and graphics glitches should check with Apple to make sure all of their firmware is up to date.
Finding Updates
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Finding Apple iMac firmware updates is simple and straightforward. First, check your Internet connection and run Software Update. This program was introduced in Mac OS 9.0 as a one-stop system-updating tool and has evolved to include third-party products like printers. Alternatively, users may go to Apple's support site to find individual firmware updates. This site maintains a comprehensive list of all software and hardware updates affecting iMac models.
Installing Updates
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Updates downloaded through Software Update are typically found in the Applications folder. Once downloaded, double-click the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. The installation screen will appear differently depending on the type of firmware update. Do not be alarmed if certain EFI and SMC updates cause unusual sounds, including system beeps and louder-than-normal fan noise.
Considerations
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The update process must not be interrupted. Because firmware controls the iMac's basic elements, users must do everything in their power to see that the update completes successfully. If a firmware update is interrupted or completes unsuccessfully, users may experience problems when the computer goes to sleep, wakes up or starts up. They might hear strange fan noises. If an update is interrupted, try to run it again. If the system is unresponsive after restarting, reset the System Management Controller (SMC).
References
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