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Replaced Macbook HDD now I can't install OS X

  • 09-07-2011 11:33am
    #1
    silvine
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,132 ✭✭✭


    Hi,

    I just installed an SSD drive into my Macbook pro. I am now trying to install my time Machine backup. However, when I insert my disc, press CD and boot the machine a flashing folder with question mark appears and then nothing happens. When I connect an external HDD with my backup and press option it asks for my root password (I don't know this, the machine is second hand).

    What can I do?


Comments

  • #2
    stimpson
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,834 ✭✭✭stimpson


    Hold down C key on boot until you see the apple. Should boot from CD then.


  • #3
    silvine
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,132 ✭✭✭silvine


    When I do that it goes to the flashing folder screen and the CD drive keeps whirring but nothing happens.


  • #4
    stimpson
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,834 ✭✭✭stimpson


    Is it a genuine OSX install CD? Is it the one that came with the machine?


  • #5
    silvine
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,132 ✭✭✭silvine


    As far as I know it is yeah. I left the machine for an hour but it still didn't load the CD.


  • #6
    stimpson
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,834 ✭✭✭stimpson


    When you hold option on startup with the CD inserted does it give the option of starting from CD?

    What model of Mac is it? When was it released? What version of OSX are you installing?

    One thing to try is clearing your PRAM. Hold cmd-opt-p-r on startup until you hear the chime twice. Then try starting from CD.


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  • #7
    silvine
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,132 ✭✭✭silvine


    I put back in my old HDD till I get the root password problem sorted. The machine boots normally unless I hold down the option key. Then it asks for the root password. I tried turning off and reseting the root password via system preferences. I also tried resetting it with the install disc that came with the machine. Neither worked


    If I format and reinstall OSX will this get rid of the root password?

    (With my old HDD installed I can access the OS X installer by booting all the way in)


  • #8
    stimpson
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,834 ✭✭✭stimpson


    Try this

    http://en.kioskea.net/forum/affich-73393-change-mac-admin-password-without-the-disk


  • #9
    Greentree_uk
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,023 ✭✭✭Greentree_uk


    What you have is an open firmware password.

    Remove one of the SO-DIMMs. [Do not touch the gold pins that go into the SO-DIMM slots.]

    Start the MacBook, with the command (Apple)key + option key + P key + R key all held down before the grey screen appears.
    Keep them held down until you hear the MacBook Chime for a third time, and then let go.

    Replace the SO-Dimms


  • #10
    silvine
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,132 ✭✭✭silvine


    Didn't know about firmware passwords. That did the trick cheers.


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