how do i wipe hd and restore mac mini without install disc?

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jlp-73 Author

Level 1

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how do i wipe hd and restore mac mini without install disc?

i purchased a previously enjoyed mac mini 2,1

intel core 2 duo

2 ghz

2 gb ram

the previous owner did a HD wipe and fresh install of OS X 10.6.8

snow leopard install disc was not included in the sale.

i'd like to wipe the HD myself and reinstall the OS just to do the due dilligence and let me rest assured of a fresh start with this new to me machine.

is there a way of doing this without the original snow leopard installation disc?

thanks...

Mac mini, Mac OS X (10.6.8)

Posted on Dec 12, 2012 7:19 AM

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Answer 1

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varjak paw

Level 10

170,200 points

Dec 12, 2012 8:30 AM in response to jlp-73

No. If you have another Mac available, you could wipe the drive by connecting the mini to the other Mac using Target Disk Mode, but without the install disks, you cannot reinstall the operating system. You'll need to purchase a new copy of Snow Leopard. It's back on the online Apple Store, at least in some countries. In the US:

http://store.apple.com/us/product/MC573/mac-os-x-106-snow-leopard

If it's not listed on the web site of the Apple Store in your country, call the online Apple Store, they may still have copies of Snow Leopard available .

Regards.

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Answer 2

jlp-73 Author

Level 1

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Dec 12, 2012 8:55 AM in response to varjak paw

thanks.

this is exactly what i figured i'd have to do.

i was just looking to not have to buy SL for it.

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Answer 3

varjak paw

Level 10

170,200 points

Dec 12, 2012 8:59 AM in response to jlp-73

Since the owner didn't give you the disks, legally you need to purchase a copy in any case, since without a retail copy of the 10.6 installer you don't have a license to use the OS. But in any case, without the disks there's no way to do a fresh install.

Regards.

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