Computing.Net - iMac G3 Booting Problems

Subject: iMac G3 Booting Problems

Original Message

Name: bobot23
Date: March 28, 2008 at 23:10:41 Pacific
Subject: iMac G3 Booting Problems
OS: MacOS 8.1
CPU/Ram: 64
Model/Manufacturer: Apple / iMac G3

Comment:

Hi, when starting my iMac G3, I have the smily face and ? alternating. I tried zapping the PRAM via the 4 combination keys heard the chime for the 2nd time and also tried resetting the NVRAM from the Open firmware.. same problem. I also noticed that I can put any CDs to maybe install Ubuntu. Please advise Alvin

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Response Number 1

Name: bobot23
Date: March 28, 2008 at 23:12:38 Pacific
Subject: iMac G3 Booting Problems

Reply: (edit)

Sorry.. I meant to say.. i CAN'T put any CD to maybe install ubuntu.. the CD slot is not accepting.. not opening..

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Response Number 2

Name: Golfer
Date: March 29, 2008 at 06:58:18 Pacific
Subject: iMac G3 Booting Problems

Reply: (edit)

Hold down the PRAM zapping keys until you hear 3 startup bongs.
The smiley face and flashing question mark means your Mac can not find a valid startup drive. Either your system is corrupt or the drive has failed.
If it has a tray loading CD drive, try holding down the mouse button when starting the Mac, it should make the tray open.

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Response Number 3

Name: Outlander
Date: April 11, 2008 at 13:24:59 Pacific
Subject: iMac G3 Booting Problems

Reply: (edit)

Last I knew, you could not boot a mac with a linux distribution. At least old world macs. The linux install had to be installed after mac OS, or by using special booting software. But I could be wrong.
If you are getting a ? then you will need to boot off a CD, or external HD with a valid Mac OS system folder installed on it.
Core 2 Duo 1.86
2GB DDR 667
ASUS P5L-MX
Nvidia 8500GT 500/1000

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