OS X Install issues...

[Love]

OmniDiskSweeper has messed up my machine (my fault, admittedly). It's missing tons of software and deleted pretty much all of my Utilities folder plus about half of my applications.

Basically, I need to start over. The problem: my MacBook refuses to boot any CDs. I have my iMac install, my retail leopard install, and my MB install disk. When I hold down D or even do the option to bring up the disk selector, the screen goes black and reboots.

What might be wrong?

 

[r.j.s]

Try holding down C ...

 

[Eidorian]

Option or 'C'

Reset the PRAM if even those don't work and then try again.

 

[Love]

Sorry, that was an error in my post... I meant C... I already have reset my PRAM.

 

[r.j.s]

So, is that for all the disks?

 

[Love]

Yeah. It's really weird.

 

[r.j.s]

Try resetting the SMC: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1411

Can the iMac boot from any of them?

 

[Love]

Booted from all three successfully on the iMac. Will try SMC.

 

[Love]

SMC + Addditional PRAM reset didn't work. Also, my network account aren't working (error on login).

 

[Love]

Can someone help? This is a big problem.

 

[Eidorian]

Try an external keyboard.

 

[zimm123]

whats

what is PRAM and how do i reset it and what is smc and how do i reset that sorry i cant help still trying to learn my self

 

[iLog.Genius]

Try Target Disk Mode.

 

[Love]

Done and not possible. (It's a uni without FW.)

 

[r.j.s]

what is PRAM and how do i reset it and what is smc and how do i reset that sorry i cant help still trying to learn my self

Reset PRAM by holding Command-Option-P-R while the Mac boots, and I posted the link to the SMC reset instructions above.

 

[Love]

I'm calling Apple right now. Just been handed off to a product specialist.

 

[Eidorian]

Yikes, good luck friend.

 

[Love]

Well, I'm screwed.

The Apple rep told me that it's either a firmware problem but before I jump to that take it to the Apple Store to get it reformatted. I said I could do it myself, and he said fine. I formatted and remotely installed it (iMac, via USB enclosure).

Now, it won't boot in to the set-up OS at all. I did the first-boot on my iMac and did the setup wizard, but it just does this cycle. Power button, chimes, grey screen, goes black, chimes, grey screen... etc.

I'm going to take this to an Apple Store. Of course, a product made at W8 (known for 2 complete lemon products of mine).

 

[Love]

There's no Genius Bar appointments available today, so I have to wait until next weekend. Great.