I have a Mac Mini and am having a problem with it freezing up

[RebelOne]

after playing a video or movie. That little pinwheel just keeps spinning and spinning. Sometimes I am lucky enough to get through the spinning pinwheel and restart the computer. But many times I just have to pull the plug and shut the computer down. Then I can restart it. But this happens at least once a day. What could be the problem?

[PoliticAverse]

1. Have you opened it and checked for dust clogging the cooling paths? n/t

[RebelOne]

3. I have no idea how or where to open it.

It is so small and compact. If it was a PC I think I could open it. I bought this Mac Mini because we had them at the office and my PC died. I liked the Mac, but when I had a problem with the office Mac, there was an IT tech to solve any problems. Well, I am now retired and no longer at that job. I could always take to Best Buy where I bought it and have their geek squad fix it, but that will cost me money. It would be great if I could solve the problem on my own.

[PoliticAverse]

6. Not the easiest thing to do, but there are some youtube videos that can help

Such as:

[RebelOne]

8. I'll try that, but I am leery about opening it up.

I'll watch the video and hopefully, I don't mess up. Thanks for your help.

[NV Whino]

2. Check your RAM

I was having a lot of problems with the spinning wheel. Memory cloggers sneaked on to my computer over the years and soaked up my RAM. Bought some additional RAM, and now everything runs smoothly.

Videos are notorious RAM hoggers.

[RebelOne]

4. How do I install additional RAM?

I have had this computer since 2009 and I'm hoping to keep a while longer.

[NV Whino]

5. Mine's a 2009, too

Call up your Apple store and ask if they have RAM for your model. You will need to tell them year, serial number and processor. The store may or may not have it. My store sent me to an independent guy who happened to have it in stock. He charged me only for the RAM, and not the installation, which is a bit tricky to install in the Mini.

[RebelOne]

7. Thanks, that is a help. n/t

[bettyellen]

9. I am going to suggest getting it from Tekserve in NYC- they are AMAZING at breaking it down for you

and they are Mac authorized for repairs, but if you are off warranty they are much cheaper. And MORE geniuses, and helpful.
True wizards, I saved about 35% off the price of the chip - after speaking with them and them advising me about job's difficulty. Worse case I would send it and computer to them to put together. I was able to do it with their amazing coaching and tips. Awesome customer service for even the smallest purchases.
Good luck!