Blankness

Question

Blankness

So, when I start up my computer, it sometimes just stops running. Grey screen. Sometimes the Apple will appear. Sometimes the Apple and the gear will appear. Sometimes it will move to a blue screen, but it never starts up completely. I have read articles about how to remedy this, but nothing seems to work. Is there a way that I can just re-install OS-X and start new?

iBook G4, Mac OS X (10.4.3)

Posted on Apr 3, 2006 8:24 AM

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Answer 1

John Huber1

Level 6

17,745 points

Apr 3, 2006 9:03 AM in response to Analogue-Brain

Is there a way that I can just re-install OS-X and start new?

Yes. Insert install disc 1 in the drive and hold down the "c" key when you restart. After it starts the Installer will be launched. As you procede through the screens there will be one with an Options button. Click it and choose "Archive and Install" as the installation type and check "Preserve users and network settings". When done all of your data willo be in place but you'll have a fresh OS to work with. You'll need to run Software Update to install any updates you want to install.

John

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Answer 2

Apr 3, 2006 3:57 PM in response to John Huber1

GOD! Okay, so I did this. And I'm horrified.
I went to install it, and it's not detecting my HD. When it asks to pick a destination, there is none. Nothing. Further guidance?...

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Answer 3

John Huber1

Level 6

17,745 points

Apr 3, 2006 5:02 PM in response to Analogue-Brain

Start from the install disc again and choose Disk Utility from the menu bar. Does it see the HD? It should be listed on the left. If it is, highlight it and look at the bottom of the window for it's SMART status. If it's Verified click on Repair Disk. If it reports repairs were made, run it again until you see no errors in the list and it says the drive is OK.

If it's Failing (in red) the drive will need to be replaced. Contact Apple if it needs to be replaced and it's still under warranty.

Post back with the results.

John

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Answer 4

Apr 3, 2006 5:28 PM in response to John Huber1

Okay, so I did that. Alas, Disk Utility doesn't detect my HD either. 😟

Luckily, it's still under warranty. I suppose I will just have to give them a call.

Thanks.

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