Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

StarrRSX

macrumors newbie
Original poster
Feb 4, 2011
3
0
So I've had this laptop forever and I thought it was broken and never used it for 2+ years. I recently moved and I discovered it does work, but I cant update anything without the admin password (which I forgot). I have EVERYTHING that goes with it, so i figured no problem I can follow the directions to reset it with the install disc.

Problem: I follow all instructions (put in disc, reset computer, hold down "c") and I get a screen that says blah blah type "mac-boot" to boot or type "shut-down" to shut down (instructions don't say anything about this screen) I figure I'll type mac-boot. Then I get a screen with just the mac face inside a folder and it will occasionally flash a "?" inside the folder than go back to the mac face. I don't know what to do now, I wait and nothing happens, I tried pressing buttons, but nothing happens. Any help would be greatly appreciated, otherwise I'll have to go down to the applestore :(

My problem sounds somewhat similar to this thread, except I CAN start my computer like normal, but i cant change my password, so I can't update anything.https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/597541/

crappy pics, if it helps :
IMG_6186.jpg

IMG_4176.jpg


Sorry if I'm just a complete moron
 
try holding down option (alt) instead on c and see if it will let you chose the cd as the boot device

I did that it just went to the "mac-boot" screen when I clicked the CD...I also tried running the apple hardware test CD...that cd worked fine and it said it didnt find any problems.
 
ok. at the screen wheere it says macboot type: reset-nvram then type set-defaults then type reset-all and see if holding c will boot from cd
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.