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Black Cherry

Q: Help to boot 5300cs

I have a Powerbook 5300cs in truly perfect shape, that is, as of 1 yr ago when I used it last. I tried to boot it today but it only shows an icon of a floppy with a question mark. How do I even begin diagnosing the problem? I am really fond of this Mac and wouldn't want to throw it away. Thanks for all help.

Powerbook 5300cs, Mac OS 8.6 or Earlier

Posted on May 25, 2008 11:13 AM

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Q: Help to boot 5300cs

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  • by Black Cherry,

    Black Cherry Black Cherry May 25, 2008 1:05 PM in response to Black Cherry
    Level 1 (0 points)
    May 25, 2008 1:05 PM in response to Black Cherry
    Ignore the question, problem solved - after a few hours, HD mysteriously woke up and booted! I wish I knew the reason.
  • by Jan Hedlund,

    Jan Hedlund Jan Hedlund May 25, 2008 2:27 PM in response to Black Cherry
    Level 6 (9,901 points)
    May 25, 2008 2:27 PM in response to Black Cherry
    The flashing question-mark indicates that the computer is not able to locate a valid system folder. The reason could possibly be a corrupt parameter memory (see this web page for information about how to reset the PRAM). It could also be bad hard disk drive driver software or difficulties with the file system, or a hardware (hard drive) issue.

    Even though the problem has been solved right now, it is wise to have access to a startup floppy. The Disk Tools PPC here can be used for the PowerBook 5300cs. Use Disk Copy 6.3.3 (the Make a Floppy command under the Utilities menu) to create a properly sector-copied floppy disk.

    Jan