Drive crashed and can't install OS on new drive

Question

I recently installed a new HD in my Powerbook after the latter crashed. I am having problems when it comes to installing my OS. I have a grey disk that says it is a software restore installation disk for 10.2 and then i have 3 black upgrade disks for 10.3 I used the 10.3 disk to run disk utility and format my HD but I recieve an error saying that i am unable to use it to install the OS because I do not have an earlier version installed. I tried to boot up off of the grey 10.2 disk and try to run the install but it stops on the grey screen and the screen gets a crazy horizontal pattern and then everything just locks up. Can anyone help?

Answer 1

Hi, Steve. I've seen several posts in the Powerbook discussions about PBs that were bought refurbished directly from Apple, or whose logic boards had been replaced by Apple with faster LBs (because LBs at the original speed were no longer available), that after the surgery would no longer start up from the discs that were originally shipped with them. I suspect that's what's going on in your case. In all likelihood you will need a retail full installer disc set for Panther or Tiger to get an OS installed on it.
You might try contacting Applecare, especially if the PB is still under a warranty or extended protection plan. Describe the situation, and explain that you suspect the original gray disc no longer recognizes the Powerbook as the model for which it was designed because internal hardware components (particularly the LB) may have been changed during the refurb process. Tell them you'll be happy to return the discs that were packaged with the refurb (so they can inspect them for damage), if they'll send you a full Panther install set instead. See how far this gets you. If it doesn't work out, you can buy a Panther universal installer set inexpensively from AppleRescue. You shouldn't have to, of course, but this may be what it takes to get you going again without undue delay and annoyance.