snowed in screen

Looks like the graphics card took a dive, in which case, you have no option other than to get it serviced.

Does the computer exhibit this same problem if you boot from an alternate media, like, say, the original Restore DVD that came with the computer?
 
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Thanks. Just tried DVD boot. No change. Graphics card sounds right. Is that fixable? Forums say things like: "Can't change graphics card...they are soldered onto the motherboard."
 
That is correct -- the graphics cards in the iMac line of computers are integrated, and not on a separate PCI card like tower-style computers. Unless you're versed with soldering and electrical engineering, it's not fixable (if, indeed, the problem is failed hardware).

A few PRAM zaps and some NVRAM resets may help, but if they don't, I would suspect that the machine needs to be looked at by an authorized repair center.

What model of iMac is this? If it's a G5 model (pic is too dark to tell), then Apple knows that there are inherent problems and has one or more warranty extension programs to fix problems similar to this. Check here for more information on serial number ranges and the problems that people are experiencing:

http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/05/08/19/apple_announces_imac_g5_repair_extension_program.html

I don't think the repair extension program is still in effect (it ended in December 2008), but it never hurts to call Apple and plead your case in a calm, collected and straightforward manner (by that, I mean that screaming and expressing overt frustration at a level I tech person on the phone ain't gonna get you anywhere). Today, people are still getting their PowerMac G5 computers replaced with brand-new Mac Pros due to liquid cooling problems, but, as with any situation where one human is dealing with another, your mileage may vary.
 
It is a G5...though one I bought used. Will try calling, in manner advised.

Re: PRAM zaps and NVRAM resets. How to...?

Thanks again.
 
You can "zap the PRAM" by holding the command-option-p-r keys down at bootup, and keep them held down until the computer reboots three times (then release). I doubt that will help.

Resetting the NVRAM is done by entering open-firmware (hold command-option-o-f at boot), then entering the following two commands (pressing Enter after each):
Code: 
reset-nvram
reset-all
Your computer should reboot after that.

After reading up on the issue and looking at your computer again, I'm going to venture out on a limb and say it's probably hardware-related, and those two procedures above probably won't help.

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1379
 
My MacBook Pro presents the same problem, from time to time... But I simply close the macbook and re-open it, then the problem gets fixed. It's very annoying but the solution is very fast. I was told to send it to repair, but currently I cannot afford getting it fixed now.
 
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