I need some help on a major head ache that i have been experiencing. I have an iMac g3 and need to install an os.The problem is what version of OS 9 to buy. Do I need the disk labeled "Software Restore" or "Software install". What is the difference. As you can tell I am new to mac and don't know much about it yet. I do have a disk for the PowerMac G3 that reads "Software Install or Restore" What does this mean also. Thank you for any help physco

Install..if the disk also says restore it's no problem..Restore disks usually have a disk image that contains the contents of the installed system..whereas the install cd will just do a regular install.. This insures that the correct files are installed for your hardware... Restore discs are more commonly used to replace missing files..as they contain an exact copy of what the installed system would appear after a fresh install..It's possible to drag the mounted image onto the drive to install that way, but my experience is file copy errors..and one error will stop the entire process , requiring starting again from scratch... Use the Install disc, in other words.. It should be a bootable disc anyways, so I'd recommend you boot from the cd for the instal (press 'C' after turning on the mac until you see 'welcome to Mac OS'. If the discs belong to another Mac model you may, or may not, get a 'will not install on this model'..if that's the case reply here and I'll show you how to install from an image..

Sorry it has taken so long to reply. I have been having some problems lately that had to be resoloved. I did get the message that says it will not install on this model. I am not sure what model revision it is, if it is a DV or some other form. (serial Number YM1320GPLWW if that is any help. I would rather just install it the correct way so i will not have any problems down the road later on. I am unsure how to find the exact model number. thank you Bill Gates is a liar and a thief just ask the people who hate him.