Gray screen on mac mini after changes to root files

[Red disc]

I have been setting up an Intel mac mini running Leopard to be a basic file server for my small business. I was doing well until I decided I wanted to change the name of the Home Folder.
I attempted this by logging in as "Root administrator" and followed an online "how to". After rebooting I now get a gray screen with the apple logo and a spinning cog. Needless to say I have missed a step!!

I have tried using the mac mini's OS X DVD to boot from by holding down the C key while rebooting but it just keeps spinning.
Any suggestions on how I can perform a clean install if the mini is not responding to Shift key or C key on boot up?

I would appreciate some help with this.

 

[miles01110]

Your thread title should be changed to reflect the problem, as "Help please" is actually explicitly recommended against in the "Post a New Thread" dialogue.

Are you asking a question? Try searching first. Answers to many questions can be easily found.

Otherwise, choose a Descriptive Title:

Do not use a generic title such as "Help please" or "What to do" or "Need advice" -- be specific!

I have tried using the mac mini's OS X disc to boot from by holding down the C key while rebooting with no luck.

What happens when the DVD is inserted and you hold the "Option" key on startup?

 

[powerhouse7]

I'd certainly go with doing a fresh install and starting again. If it works, that seems the simplest and easiest thing to do.

I'd also suggest changing the name of this thead to something more suggestive of its content - such a generic name annoys people and you'll less people willing to help.

 

[powerhouse7]

You cannot use a Mac mini restore disc on an iMac. You need a retail copy of the OS or your iMac's restore discs.

Who said anything about an iMac?

 

[miles01110]

Who said anything about an iMac?

😱 I actually have no idea. I think I was reading a different thread and got confused. Oops. Editing now 😛

 

[Red disc]

Issue resolved

I have managed to get the mini to boot from the DVD today after leaving it unplugged over night and using a Mac keyboard from work (I only had Logitech keyboards at home).

Well I learnt two things from the exercise; don't mess around with the Root Directory, and use a more descriptive title when looking for assistance.