I am trying to erase the data on my MacBook Pro for resale. I was unable to erase the free space as I received an error indicating a secondary file is not available. Also trying to erase all other data, but the format drop down where I select 'Mac OS Extended(Journaled) is greyed out so I am unable to proceed. Any suggestions?
MacBook, Mac OS X (10.4.8)
Before you can erase the disk in a Mac, it must be booted from another device besides the one you want to erase. This can be achieved by booting from the install DVD if you Mac is old enough to have them. If not, then you boot from Internet Recovery and start Disk utility from there to erase the disk.
Thanks for your response Allan. What if I don't have the install DVD and the command R option at start up isn't working?
Did your Mac originally come with an install DVD?
If it did, you are going to have to order a replacement from Apple.
To do the Internet Recovery, you use Option - Command - R
Erasing data for re-sale: Format button grayed out
