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The iMac G5, powered by the PowerPC G5 processor, was originally released in August 2004.

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How can I clean a RAM slot?

Got a donated G5 20" iMac with several problems. After replacing power supply, it began to work. Then tried to add RAM (matching chips), but top (2nd) slot doesn't work. With RAM in 2nd slot, iMac experiences constant kernel panics.

Original suggestion from multiple sources said it was likely logic board problem, but this Mac is too old to put money into that. Since it's 6 years old, and the 2nd RAM slot was never used, IS IT POSSIBLE that the RAM slot merely needs cleaning? (One tech guy suggested cleaning connectors on the RAM itself with an eraser, but since it was new and clean, I wondered about the slot itself.)

Can the RAM slot be cleaned safely? If so, what should I use? (Alcohol or other cleaner? How to apply if any cleaner can be used? Or is there something like a pencil eraser that could go into the inside of the slot?)

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Yes it is possible to clean RAM slots. To clear of debris use canned air as previously mentioned. Before doing any of the following, unplug it, press the power button for 30 seconds and let it sit for an hour or more for the capacitors to dissipate their charge. For corrosion and/or residue, the first thing I would try would be to put the RAM stick, moistened with 95% or better rubbing alcohol in the slot and take it in - out of the slot a few times and then clean the contacts on the RAM stick. I don't know if they are even available or not, vcr head cleaner sticks with chamois tips & 95% or better rubbing alcohol would be one of the best things. Since it has never been used it may have some residue or corrosion. You might get stuck using a fine emery board with lite in - out strokes. If you go side to side you risk bending the reader pins. That is one of the methods I use to clean the game reader pins on the DS family of game systems, if they are being real stubborn.

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I would guess that dust got into it which could cause some problems.... try the good ol' can of air and give the whole thing a good dusting.

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You could try alcohol on a q-tip.

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