How do I force reinstall my install disk when OS won't startup.

I have an iMac (Intel) that won't complete the startup. I.e. It's stuck at the beginning with the grey screen, with grey apple, and spinning dashes. I went to Genius Bar, where, after much investigation, they said I should reinstall the OS - i.e. reinstall my install disks.
Problem is that even when I put in my install disk, the computer ignores it. What do I do to force the computer to startup using the disks, not the hard drive? I know there must be a button on the keyboard to force this. Thanks for your help.
-Bruno

Put the original Install Disc that came with the computer in the SuperDrive then start the computer while holding down the Option key on your keyboard. Continue holding the Option key down until the system asks you which start up volume you want, choose the Install Disc and it will begin the install.
To do a clean install (wipe the whole HD clean) after choosing the language click the *Utility Menu*, *Disk Utility*, highlight your *HD on the left* and then click the *Erase Tab*, then *Format (make sure it's set to Mac OS Extended (Journaled)*, after that is done (less than 30 seconds usually) then exit Disk Utility and continue with the install following the on-screen instructions.
*NOTE: I hope you have been backing up the system, if not Erasing will delete everything. If you have not backed up then I'd recommend trying to reinstall without Erasing which may work.*

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