Can't Re-install System Software

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Can't Re-install System Software

I need to re-install System OSX Tiger on a G4 Powerbook which has lost most of its desktop and user info -- including the Hard Drive icon, and it won't show the icon for the installer disk when I insert it. Obviously, I can't do the install like this -- and need help getting to it.

This is serious for me -- any help greatly appreciated

G4 Power Book, Mac OS X (10.4.9)

Posted on Aug 21, 2008 9:36 PM

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Answer 1

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Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

Aug 21, 2008 10:08 PM in response to BabaRebop

If you boot from the installer disc and no hard drive is present, then it's dead and needs to be replaced.

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Answer 2

BabaRebop Author

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Aug 21, 2008 10:41 PM in response to Kappy

can you tell me how to boot from the installer disk? right now, i only can hard shutdown/reboot.

thanks

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Answer 3

Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

Aug 21, 2008 11:45 PM in response to BabaRebop

Booting From An OS X Installer Disc

1. Insert OS X Installer Disc into the optical drive.
2. Restart the computer.
3. Immediately after the chime press and hold down the "C" key.
4. Release the key when the spinning gear below the dark gray Apple logo appears.
5. Wait for installer to finish loading.

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Answer 4

BabaRebop Author

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Aug 22, 2008 7:46 AM in response to Kappy

Thanks a million, Kappy -- That got it booted and re-installed. Still can't seem to resolve the creation and switching to default of a new username/account -- but that's another whole story.

GREATLY appreciated. Thanks again.

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Answer 5

Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

Aug 22, 2008 1:02 PM in response to BabaRebop

If you want to change the username (short name) then download ChangeShortName - VersionTracker or MacUpdate - and use it to change the short name of the user account.

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