[sworthy]

Hey everyone -

I have a 12" G4 1Ghz powerbook here that hangs on startup. It turns on, makes the chime and goes into its usal grey screen with the apple logo and that little circular progress bar. However, it doesn't get any further than this. Then, it makes a beep (different than the chime). The only way to shut of the computer is either to hold down the power button or unplug the power and remove the battery. Is my hard drive dead? Any ideas? Unfortunately, the computer is 3.5 years old so applecare won't cover it.

[romeosc]

Originally Posted by sworthy 

Hey everyone -

I have a 12" G4 1Ghz powerbook here that hangs on startup. It turns on, makes the chime and goes into its usal grey screen with the apple logo and that little circular progress bar. However, it doesn't get any further than this. Then, it makes a beep (different than the chime). The only way to shut of the computer is either to hold down the power button or unplug the power and remove the battery. Is my hard drive dead? Any ideas? Unfortunately, the computer is 3.5 years old so applecare won't cover it.

Hold down Shift key while rebooting

[sworthy]

hmm... no go. Also, there now seems to be a clicking noise. Sounds like the hard drive is struggling...

[amazing]

Startup off the system software dvd and see if Disk Utility sees the HD. Sounds like your HD has gone bad (everything backed up?) If you've got access to another Mac (a friend? co-worker?) you could see if it will startup in firewire target disk mode.

You'll find instructions for replacing the HD at pbfixit.com if the HD has indeed gone bad.

[sworthy]

Thanks, I'll give it a try and report back.