How do I select a destination volume to install the mac os x software?

If the disk is suitable, to install Mac OS X, insert the Install disk 1 and restart.

When you hear the chime sound, press and hold the C key until the apple logo appears.
After you choose your language, click on a dialogue button, then you should be presented with the Mac's internal disk, to confirm it as the destination for the installation.

However if the disk is grey, and meant for another machine, then it may not be useful to install on that Mac.

presterjohn:

Try formatting the HDD first:

Formatting, Partitioning Erasing a Hard Disk Drive
Warning! This procedure will destroy all data on your Hard Disk Drive. Be sure you have an up-to-date, tested backup of at least your Users folder and any third party applications you do not want to re-install before attempting this procedure.

• Insert install disk in optical drive.
• Hit Power button and immediately after chime hold down the "C" key.
• Select language
• Go to the Installer menu (Panther & earlier) and launch Disk Utility.
• Select your HDD (manufacturer ID) in left side bar.
• Select Partition tab in main panel. (You are about to create a single partition volume.)
• Select number of partitions in pull-down menu above Volume diagram.
(Note 1: One partition is normally preferable for an internal HDD.)
• Type in name in Name field (usually Macintosh HD)
• Select Volume Format as Mac OS Extended (Journaled)
• Click Partition/Apply button at bottom of panel.
• Select Erase tab
• Select the sub-volume (indented) under Manufacturer ID (usually Macintosh HD).
• Check to be sure your Volume Name and Volume Format are correct.
• Click Erase button
• Quit Disk Utility.
Open installer and begin installation process.

Please don't hesitate to post back with further questions/comments.

😉 cornelius