Unable to start from disk while holding C key.

Hi for some reason I am unable to start boot from disk (Mac OS X install disk) while holding down C key. I've forgot my password and cant log in.
Is there any other way I can reset my password? Or format my hd? or even reset it back to factory setting?
I lost my os x disk so i bought one from ebay instead. could this cause me not able to boot from cd?
Message was edited by: what's going on

If you are using a grey install disk that is not for your model, that indeed may be why you cannot start the machine with the C key held down.
Another reason may be if the MBP has Firmware Password Utility on.
Is this related to the PowerBook you bought on eBay? You don't seem to have much luck there.

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