How to make a clean install of Mac OS X?

Question

I got an Ibook G3 (Dual USB) from a friend.It has Mac OS X 10.1.5 installed.
But also Xubuntu Linux.(Dual Boot)
I want to install Mac OS 10.3 and remove Xubuntu.
How can I do that? I see that the Hard Drive has 3-4 partitions.
I inserted Panther CD but don't understand how can I remove all partitions.
You see I have never used Mac before.
All I want to do is delete everything and make a clean install of Mac OS Panther
Can somebody explain to me with simple words what should I do?

Answer 1

To reinstall Mac OS X (all versions) on your computer, insert your Mac OS X software CD (disk 1) or DVD into the CD or DVD drive and restart your computer while holding down the [C] key. Once the computer starts up from the CD or DVD, the installation window appears. Click Continue in the first two windows that appear, then read the important information concerning the installation. Click Continue again in the next two windows, then click Agree if you accept the terms of the license.

Select the hard drive and volume you want to install Mac OS X on. When the volume has been selected, click on the Options button that appears on the bottom left-hand side of the installation window. You have the option of archiving or erasing the old operating system.

If you select Archive and Install, you can preserve your files and the users and network settings, as well as place the old operating system into a folder called Previous System, while installing a new copy of Mac OS X. Be sure to check the box labeled Preserve Users and Network Settings if you wish to preserve the files and settings from your previous system software installation.

If you select Erase and Install, all files, personal settings, folders, and software will be deleted when you erase the hard drive. If you choose to erase and reformat the disk at this stage, format it using the Macintosh extended file system.

Continue the installation, which will likely take a while. Insert additional CDs as requested. Once it finishes, you will be prompted to restart your computer. Upon restart, enter all the registration information and follow the prompts. When you are asked to create your account, enter a User Name and Password. Don't forget this password; you will need it if you ever want to perform additional installations and system updates. You may find it advantageous to include a hint should you forget the password.

Select the appropriate time zone, date, and time. The installation of the system software is now complete. Any application software can now be installed.

Answer 2

When you insert the Panther disc it should give you the option of restoring the hard drive to factory settings which would remove the partitions and allow you to install Panther without trouble.

Have a look here for some advice:

http://www.apple.com/support/ibook/

Which should be able to take you step by step through the process.

If all else fails and you're near an Apple store you can make an appointment for the Genius Bar and they'll be able to help. You may want to wait until after Christmas though, Apple stores are never the quietest of places, especially in the run up to the 'big day'

Answer 3

I would assume just drag it to the trash and empty the trash. Then restart the computer and install the updated system. I think you should visit the mac website too for more help if you need it and I think there is another OS in between 10.1.5 and 10.3, I might be wrong. But they are free to down loan on the site along with a lot of other goodies you can download too.
Good luck! Macs are wonderful.