How do I reset my mac (reinstall it and delete the old items on it so that it is like a new comp)?

Question

No CD, Version 10.3.9

No CD, Version 10.3.9, Powerbook

Answer 1

I'm going to assume by "No CD" you mean you don't have the installation CDs for Panther, as I can't imagine that you're running Panther on a Mac that doesn't have a CD drive ...

If you want to take it back to like it was as a new Mac, you either need to have a copy of the hard disk as it was when the Mac was new, or you're going to need CDs to reinstall the original software. Panther install CDs run about $100 - $150. If the Mac is Tiger (10.4.x) compatible, you can get Tiger, generally for the same price or less.

Put the first install CD in the drive, and restart, holding down the "c" key to force a startup from the CD drive, open Disk Utility, and initialize the internal hard drive, and install Tiger, included all items that you want to be on your "new" Mac.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

I guess you could put everything on a zip, delete what you don't want, and then you'd have something to work with that looked like what you wanted.
No matter what you do, short of getting an OS CD, I would definitely make a back up in case you delete something crucial. Couldn't you just delete what you don't want and secure empty the trash?
Sorry, since you didn't say why it is you are wanting to do this, trying to think of options. If you bought the computer local, your mac guy should be able to do a reinstall. And if you have to get the OS, 10.4 is definitely worth the bucks, IMHO.
If you don't live in Oregon, PowerMax is a great place that doesn't charge sales tax, ask for Joe.
Hope that helps.

Rowena

Answer 3

I have an iMac, but I'm not really sure--maybe just bring every thing to the trash can or use the "Spring Cleaning" thing.