Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Mac OS X 10.4: Repeatedly asked to insert Install DVD Disc 2 during install

Hello,

I have erased my hard drive and am trying to install 10.4.4 using the original disks that were supplied with my iMac.

Disk 1 installed fine but disk 2 stops half way through saying "there were errors installing software please try again". I have, many times.

I'm not bothered about iLife so would be happy with a custom install from just disk 1 but it won't let me boot from it. I've tried that lots of times too. It just asked for disk 2.

I have tried using my laptop to solve the problem using target mode but again the iMac just asks for disk 2.

I have tried zapping the pram, nothing happens - no second chime, it just asks for disk 2

I have tried to open it in single user mode, nothing just disk 2???

I have now spent 8 hours searching for an answer to what's seems to be a common problem but the only solution seems to be to boot from disk 1 but my computer is having none of it.

Please help.

Please...

iMac core duo, Mac OS X (10.4.4)

Posted on Jan 12, 2011 10:00 AM

Reply
33 replies

Jan 12, 2011 11:30 AM in response to patpending74

That second installer disc thing is not unusual. You could try contacting Apple Support and see if they have replacement discs, but it's been a long time.

One way to deal with it is to select custom installation, then exclude any extras such as applications, languages, etc. until the installer no longer asks for disc 2. Some of the things such as applications are out of date anyway (Safari, iTunes). It might be possible to load them with a second installation later, or using Pacifist utility.

Jan 13, 2011 3:11 AM in response to patpending74

You may have to try & see if you can get a retail full install Leopard 10.5 DVD
and go that route to attempt to put a new system in that Early 2006 model
Intel-based iMac computer. At least you'd have a bootable installer and its
own Disk Utility you could run from there, to check & prepare the hard disk
drive for a really new installation, including secure erase, partition map and
a reformatting the hard drive.

Or see about calling Apple sales support about ordering a replacement set
of install-restore discs for that computer, based on the product serial number.

Good luck & happy computing! 🙂

Jan 13, 2011 10:14 AM in response to patpending74

Might try this...

Resetting the SMC for Mac Pro, Intel-based iMac, Intel-based Mac mini, or Intel-based Xserve

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Unplug the computer's power cord.
3. Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds.
4. Release the power button.
5. Attach the computers power cable.
6. Press the power button to turn on the computer.

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht3964

Jan 13, 2011 12:13 PM in response to patpending74

Some early Intel-based Macs can't use Snow Leopard 10.6 installers;
of those, the Core Duo (not 2 duo) were suspect and had issues. So,
that is why I'd suggested a retail Leopard 10.5 install DVD to test it.

The computer may have some kind of hardware failure, so if you live
in an area served by a retail Apple Store with Genius, you may call
and ask about setting an appointment with someone to look at it.

If an SMC or power management reset can't help flush the gremlins.

However, unless there were some defect (I know of none) that may
have recourse through Apple at this late date, it could be costly to fix.
Unless there is some firmware issue that an expert could zap.

Good luck & happy computing! 🙂

Mac OS X 10.4: Repeatedly asked to insert Install DVD Disc 2 during install

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.