iMac Mid 2011 GPU issue?

[junior466]

I apologize in advance since I am aware of the countless threads on the subject but my Mid 2011 is showing the graphics card issue symptoms but I wanted to be sure before moving forward with a fix. My system will boot but a few minutes later simply black screen and reboot. Sometimes it will do it 3 or 4 times and then its fine. I can be used for hours on end. If put to sleep and I try to use later or next day, the issue shows up again.

If this is indeed the GPU problem, should I just follow the sticky on replacing it? I also found a thread where a user suggests simply upgrading to a SSD?

Thank you.

 

[chscag]

Make sure it is the GPU before deciding what to do. Attach an external monitor or even a TV to see if the symptoms are the same; if they are, then you'll know the GPU is acting up.

All the GPU fixes for the 2011 iMac are not easy to do and sometimes they don't last very long. You might want to consider replacing your iMac which is going on 9+ years old.

 

[junior466]

Make sure it is the GPU before deciding what to do. Attach an external monitor or even a TV to see if the symptoms are the same; if they are, then you'll know the GPU is acting up.

All the GPU fixes for the 2011 iMac are not easy to do and sometimes they don't last very long. You might want to consider replacing your iMac which is going on 9+ years old.

Interesting! Glad I asked prior to doing anything.

 

[junior466]

@chscag Just realized something. How does an external monitor rule out the GPU? I did plug one in and so far so good but the iMac display remains on so isn't still being used by the GPU?

 

[chscag]

If an external monitor shows normal video and none of the symptoms that you are experiencing (as reported in your first post) then you can assume the GPU is okay.

The iMac display will stay on while the external monitor is attached. The GPU in your 2011 iMac is capable of driving both at the same time.

The black screen and rebooting you reported could also be attributed to a failing power supply. But like I stated previously, that machine is showing its age. (Like me. LOL)

 

[junior466]

If an external monitor shows normal video and none of the symptoms that you are experiencing (as reported in your first post) then you can assume the GPU is okay.

The iMac display will stay on while the external monitor is attached. The GPU in your 2011 iMac is capable of driving both at the same time.

The black screen and rebooting you reported could also be attributed to a failing power supply. But like I stated previously, that machine is showing its age. (Like me. LOL)

Well, the black screen appears but the machine immediately reboots after that. It doesn't stay on with a black screen. That is why I don't think adding a second monitor would make a difference but for some reason, it hasn't happened ever since connecting one. Coincidence?

 

[chscag]

Could be a coincidence, but it does not appear that the GPU is bad. At least since you attached the external monitor.

Like we say in the electronic repair business.... let it cook. If it does it again, try running Apple diagnostics to see if that spots anything.