How do I get a Live CD out of an Apple iMac G3?

Question

I've been passed an old Apple iMac G3 (model M5521) that my mate tried a Linux Live CD in. Unfortunately, the machine wouldn't boot from it, we just get a text message that the machine can't read the disc, and there's no hardware eject button or pin-hole for the usual paper-clip.

I've tried starting with the eject key held down on the keyboard, and the same with Apple key + E. (Suggested by my local Linux User Group.) Neither worked.

Can anyone offer a solution that doesn't involve dismantling the case, please?

randomduded · Accepted Answer

Hi if its the G3 with a slot loading drive there is a pin release but its hidden, it is on the right side of the slot loading area, just push a small screw driver or  what ever you want to use,


so its just in the right hand corner of the slot if my memory is right if not try the left hand side,


so power it on and push your pin in the right hand corner of the slot cd drive

just to add it is the right handside, its on page 24 of this user manual 
http://manuals.info.apple.com/en/iMacG3_2000UserManual.PDF

Anonymous · Answer

You will need a Linux CD that has been manufactured specifically for Apple Macs. There is one called Yellow Dog that will work, Ubuntu 8.10 LTS for Mac is another and Open Suse have a distro that works.

Trending News

How do I get a Live CD out of an Apple iMac G3?

2 Answers