[DuckRacer1]

...And sell this Mac Mini on eBay. Now, how would I return this Mini to it's original state, without any of my files on it? i know it involves using the install discs, but I don't know how.

And with the transfer utility that comes up when you set up a new Mac, does it copy everything over? Like fonts, apps, videos, photos, everything?


Thanks,
Duck

[Cold Warrior]

You can boot from the install disc, open disk utility, and choose erase using a 7-count wipe for secure erasure.

[Gossamer]

You can select what you want it to copy over: All of your documents, Library folder (which would include fonts and preferences), and Applications.
And following Cold Warrior's instructions should securely remove all of your files.

[chris v]

When you start up from the install disk, before you begin running the installer, one of the menus should give you the option to open Disk Utility. Re-format your drive, using write zeros if you're worried about sensitive data, then install a fresh version of the OS. If you want to let your buyer have that "new mac" experience, just shut it down before creating a new account, and it'll re-run the setup assistant when they re-start it.

[DuckRacer1]

Originally Posted by Gossamer 

You can select what you want it to copy over: All of your documents, Library folder (which would include fonts and preferences), and Applications.
And following Cold Warrior's instructions should securely remove all of your files.

So, if I copy my apps over but not the Library, serial numbers I entered for some of my programs would be forgotten?

Thanks for everyone's help so far.

EDIT: What kind of cable do I need in order to transfer the stuff in the first place?

[shifuimam]

Originally Posted by DuckRacer1 

EDIT: What kind of cable do I need in order to transfer the stuff in the first place?

Firewire. Boot into target disk mode on the mini by holding down "T" when you boot. Connect it to another Mac via a firewire cable. It'll appear as a drive, and you can copy your stuff over.

Conversely, you can boot into the mini normally and just attach an external drive to it.

[Gossamer]

Originally Posted by shifuimam 

Firewire. Boot into target disk mode on the mini by holding down "T" when you boot. Connect it to another Mac via a firewire cable. It'll appear as a drive, and you can copy your stuff over.

Conversely, you can boot into the mini normally and just attach an external drive to it.

Yep. When you're setting up your new computer it should tell you how to do all of this.

[DuckRacer1]

Okay, thanks everyone.

[msuper69]

Originally Posted by DuckRacer1 

Okay, thanks everyone.

Use the Migration Assistant to copy all your stuff from the old Mac to the new Mac.