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Released on October 23, 2012. Core i5 or Core i7 Processor. Apple Fusion Drive.

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Mac Mini dead. Fan just keeps quarter spinning ‘pulsing’

Hi. Just wondering if anyone knew what might be the issue here. PSU is fine so it looks to be a logic board issue, but I’m not sure if it’s something than could be fixed.

When I attach the power cord, the fan does a quick spin then stops, then a quick spin again, then stops, and it just keeps doing this. This is without touching the power button. It’s looks like something is failing even before it can be in a state to be turned on.

There are some places that do logic board repairs, but maybe someone has an idea what the issue may be, as I’m a little concerned leaving my Mac mini with someone for several days with 2 drives full of all my personal stuff.

It’s a Mac Mini Late 2012 2.6GHz i7 (A1347)

Thank you,

Keith

Update (07/14/2018)

Someone had a look, but can’t do repairs at a logic board level. Initial diagnosis, “Sadly it is the logic board and not the power supply. I don’t have a schematic for the board so can’t confirm the issue but one-wire communication for power on is working but the processor is not providing the start-up logic.”

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

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Took it to Apple Genius Bar

they said it needs a new logic board = £337

as the MacMini is less than 6 years old (5years 10months) I asked it they would fix it for free, under consumer law (worth a try!)

Genius had a quick chat with store manager. They approved and replaced the logic board for free.

I was expecting a bit of a fight, but there you go. Well done Apple :-)

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While IFIXIT appears to be out of stock, here’s the needed logic board: Mac mini A1347 (Late 2012) 2.5 GHz Logic Board

Mac mini A1347 (Late 2012) 2.5 GHz Logic Board Image

Product

Mac mini A1347 (Late 2012) 2.5 GHz Logic Board

$299.99

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Thanks Dan.

So it sounds like I need a new logic board, rather than someone being able to repair this ?

Thanks for the link. Mine is the upgraded i7 CPU however.

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Someone could repair it, but they would charge around the same to desolder a component and solder a replacement component. I suggest purchasing a new logic board and keeping the non-functioning logic board in an anti-static bag if you ever decide to have a professional fix it for you.

It might not even be worth it if a lot of components on the logic board are dead or not working correctly.

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I agree with Macario, it tends too be about the same cost and this is quicker.

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Thanks everyone.

I just can’t seem to find the logic board with the same i7 CPU that I have.

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keith will be eternally grateful.
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