Same problem, old topic - won't boot get question mark folder

I have a G4 14" ibook that has stopped working. When I boot I get the folder with the flashing question mark. here are some specifics:
- fan starts then stops
- hard drive starts up
- pram has been reset
- booting in target mode allows hard drive to function properly on my imac (not a hard drive or hard drive connector problem)
- removed logic board and had a circuit technician inspect all solder joints under very high mag with no problems evident
- replaced logic board with a known good logic board and have the same problem
I really could care less about the computer at this point as it has run its course, but it is now one of those things that if I don't figure out the problem I'll begin loosing sleep.
If anyone has any other ideas, I'd enjoy attempting them.

If the optical drive on the iBook G4 is failing, the only way to load 10.3 on a G4 14" (assuming it came with 10.3 or less), is via another PowerPC Mac, or an external Firewire optical drive.
Three facts to keep in mind:
1. Macs can't boot an older operating system than shipped with them.
2. All Macs shipped with system specific discs, which if lost need to be replaced either by calling AppleCare, or the last seller if non-Apple authorized for those discs if Apple no longer has them.
If you lost the discs, and bought from an Apple Authorized seller, and AppleCare no longer has them, obtaining them is very difficult, and it is best to piecemeal get the separately sold operating system, and applications. Keep in mind for machines like the iBook G4 that's the only way to install Classic on them. Elements of iLife may have been included depending on age:
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1490798&tstart=0
Newer versions of iLife may install depending on system requirements:
http://support.apple.com/kb/TA27615
http://www.apple.com/ilife/systemrequirements.html
Appleworks never was sold with the retail installer discs, though a retail version may be available that will work on it.
Hardware Test never was sold with the retail installer discs.
3. Macs can install operating systems newer than them which are retail (non-OEM, non-Update, non-DropIn, not labelled for specific Mac).
Message was edited by: a brody

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