Help I need a Mac computer expert - Page 1

Can anybody help? My older iMac was set up on my network, and being used by my older son. He says he was doing an Adobe flash update....(I think) but I don't think it was compatable with this older system, because now on restart, it can't find the hard drive to boot! 

I can't get it to reboot from the system disc either. I did figure out how to get the tray to open with the mouse, at least.

It also won't let me reset the PRAM.  I'm thinking I need to open this computer up, I found step by step instructions from Apple, that show diagnostic LED's, but I wondered, has anyone done this themselves? It seems easy...just very nerve wracking.  Any way... if any body knows anything about this, I'd appreciate it.

I guess I want to know if I'm heading down the correct route?

On start up what happens? Can you get into setup by pressing F8 or whatever?

It makes the music sound, the apple shows up, and then the spinning thing starts, but that's it. It just keeps spinning like it is looking for the system and can't find it. 

I've pretty much done all the little reboot tricks I know...

Have you tried holding c on restart with the dish inserted? I guess this allows you to boot from disk and supposedly allows you to run a disc utility.

Yes, I have tried, it just does the same thing. Won't recognize the disk!!! So what's next....do I try to open this up?

This is what I am looking at... thinking of doing....

http://support.apple.com/kb/TS2094

Have you called Apple? How are you shutting it down? Hold power button??

No, I never call Apple, LOL

Yes, I shut down holding the power button in back. I've unplugged it. I even was able to reset the SMU, I think it was, cuz the fans started blowing all over the place.

Honestly, I don't think doing the LED deal is going to make a difference. RAM is emptied on re-start. This sounds like a virus or some data was messed up on the install of the flash player.

OK.... so can I do anything? Or do I have to accept defeat and pay somebody?