Returning iBook, need help

[antares98]

Not sure if this is the right forum, but here goes....

First off, it's nice to finally stop lurking and start posting to this fine forum. Hi everyone!

After months of hemming and hawing (desktop v laptop, G4 v G5, plastic v aluminum, etc.) I finally purchased a 12" G4 iBook. I've been playing with it for a few days and, while it's a great laptop, feel my needs would be better served with a desktop (I lose portability but gain power to rip, mix & burn). Since I've already "initialized" this machine (though I haven't registered it), I was wondering what is the easiest way to "uninitialize" it, so that there's no trace of my presence? The is physically "as new" but I don't like the idea that the operating system bears signs of use. Would a clean install of the OS fix this?

 

[jsw]

Not sure if this is the right forum, but here goes....

First off, it's nice to finally stop lurking and start posting to this fine forum. Hi everyone!

After months of hemming and hawing (desktop v laptop, G4 v G5, plastic v aluminum, etc.) I finally purchased a 12" G4 iBook. I've been playing with it for a few days and, while it's a great laptop, feel my needs would be better served with a desktop (I lose portability but gain power to rip, mix & burn). Since I've already "initialized" this machine (though I haven't registered it), I was wondering what is the easiest way to "uninitialize" it, so that there's no trace of my presence? The is physically "as new" but I don't like the idea that the operating system bears signs of use. Would a clean install of the OS fix this?

Sadly, the fact that you opened the box is enough to 'prove' that you used it, so, unfortunately, you're likely out the 10% if you return it. Of course, you can try, but I think there's an open box policy that costs you 10% within, I think, 10 days. This is to the best of my knowledge - might not be correct.

 

[question fear]

are you asking for return reasons or for personal protection reasons? i think if you do a wiped install of the os you'll be fine.
also, if you are returning to apple they will wipe the hard drive and refurbish the computer anyhow.
but jsw is right, you'll still have to pay 10%. but i read your post as being concerned about personal information....?

 

[Solafaa]

Try ebay, you might get a good deal.

 

[JzzTrump22]

Once you cut the tape on the box your screwed. Your going to have to pay the 10% or you could try selling on ebay. I'm sure you could get close to full price.

 

[Chip NoVaMac]

Note: The 10% restock fee is what the Apple Stores charge. YMMV if you bought it elsewhere.

 

[antares98]

Thanks everyone!

I appreciate the quick replies. Yes, I'm asking for reasons of privacy/personal security. I'll do a clean install tonight and start the return process tomorrow. Ah, well....

Cheers!

 

[Brother Michael]

I say sell it on eBay. You might even get more for it. Some people get crazy at the last minute with the bidding.

Mike