How do I install OS X 10.6.3 on my iMac G5 with a completely blank HD?

Question

Level 1

0 points

How do I install OS X 10.6.3 on my iMac G5 with a completely blank HD?

I have never used or owned an Apple computer before but my buddy got one from a lady who had problems with hers. She told us the hard drive was damaged and she didn't want it anymore. Now I have it, with a wiped/blank 1TB brand new hard drive and a 'Mac OS X 10.6.3 Install DVD'. I do not know any of the startup shortcuts and don't want to insert the install dvd in fear of not being able to eject it. I turn it on and hear a startup sound, then the screen goes grey with a purple folder that has a picture of a face and a ? alternating continuously. It would be helpful to tell me step by step instructions to install the OS or let me know if there are any other discs/processes I need to obtain before continuing and why. Help is greatly apprectiated! 🙂

iMac

Posted on Jul 28, 2011 12:53 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Klaus1

Level 9

52,749 points

Jul 28, 2011 3:12 AM in response to Brandin917

If it indeed is a PPC iMac G5 then Snow Leopard 10.6 will not run on it, as this requires an Intel Mac.

Start by installing from the original install disks.

Reply

Answer 2

Brandin917 Author

Level 1

0 points

Jul 28, 2011 4:56 PM in response to Klaus1

Thank you so much. What are the original install disks called?

Reply

Answer 3

MGW

Level 7

27,041 points

Jul 28, 2011 5:07 PM in response to Brandin917

They are grey and came with your Mac. They are called install disc.

Reply

Answer 4

Brandin917 Author

Level 1

0 points

Jul 28, 2011 6:27 PM in response to MGW

The answer I was looking for was that I need either a Panther 10.3 or Tiger 10.4 install disc. I verified with Apple Support. As to how I get ahold of that, suggestions are welcome. Instructions for installation on a blank hard drive would be helpful if anyone knows this process.

Reply

Answer 5

MGW

Level 7

27,041 points

Jul 28, 2011 6:40 PM in response to Brandin917

You need a Panther disc, simply insert it into the optical drive slot,click on the disk image, install it and format your hard drive as Mac OS Extnded (journaled).

Look on eBay for copies of Panther, but make sure you get a black retail disc, they grey ones are machine specific and won't work.

Reply

Answer 6

Jun 28, 2014 7:29 AM in response to MGW

Same issue for me.

After installing Panther in my PPC G5, will it now update to SL 10.6 or will another OS be needed to get the new HD up to speed?

10.6.8 is my goal.. Also, is there a bundle OS that will shorten this process? pc

Reply

Answer 7

Allan Jones

Level 9

68,762 points

Jun 28, 2014 7:55 AM in response to pocketchanged

If you look at Klaus1's answer to the OP, you will find your answer also.

Never be afraid to start a new thread here. Many helpers will skip over a thread that has been re-opened after three year like this one.

Reply

Answer 8

Jun 28, 2014 8:06 AM in response to Allan Jones

Thank You Allen,

I have discovered keeping abreast of operating 3 iMacs on occasion muddies the mind (mine anyway>)

Hopefully the Panther start up disc set will get a new HD to function in my old PPC G5 (before I look for a buyer.)

Thanks, pc

Reply