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1.5 Core Solo, 1.66 or 1.83 Core Duo, or 1.83 or 2 GHz Core 2 Duo processor. This covers the first Intel-based Mac Mini models from Early 2006 to Mid 2007.

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Strange video display behavior

The video output appears to be out of sync or not receiving a sync signal. Once the OS has booted, only ~1/8" of the desktop is visible (upon mouse over). It is as if there is a light grey wall placed over the rest of the desktop. I can see the tops of all the menu items, and I can see the correct desktop picture in the background, and I see the mouse cursor when it is at the top of the screen. In single user mode, I partially see the first line.

Upon start up, I see the light grey screen without a logo or loading icon, but the display appears to "switch" once it loads the desktop. If I disconnect the display, startup the machine, and re-connect it after the chime, I do get the loading screen, but it has a partially ghosted image to the right. Once the desktop loads, it "switches" and the only the top of the screen is visible (upon mouse over)

I have tried this with several displays, but the results are the same with either a DVI or VGA connection.

I have examined the board, but can see no visible signs of a poor connection.

What else can I check for? Are there any video diagnostic tools I can run (I do have ARD access, so I can see the desktop) ? Thanks for you help.

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From your description it sounds like a bad VGU (VGC). This is not a DIY repair project... what is a DIY repair (though advanced) is a logic board replacement. Only you can determine if the project would be cost effective.

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Are there any software diagnostic tools that I can use to test this? Could someone mucking around with the firmware cause these symptoms? I inherited this machine and know there was some mucking done.

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You could try Apple Hardware Test (AHT) to see if it picks up anything. As to firmware you can also try applying a newer release if it needs it EFI & SMC firmware updates. Frankly, I doubt that will help here. You also may have a bad logic board (GPU) which is why the display is messed up.

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gavandi will be eternally grateful.
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