Mac OS X: The Missing Manual, Second Edition

Appendix A. Installing Mac OS X 10.2

If your computer came with Mac OS X 10.2 already installed on it, you can skip this appendix—for now. But if you’re running an earlier version of the Mac OS and want to savor the X experience, this appendix describes how to install the new operating system on your Mac.

Getting Ready to Install

For starters, verify that you and your Mac have what it takes to handle Mac OS X—specifically this:

• A Macintosh that came with a G3 or G4 processor. In other words, a Power Mac G3, Power Mac G4, iMac, eMac, iBook, PowerBook G4, or PowerBook G3 (except the very first model, the one bearing a six-color Apple logo). See Installing Mac OS X on Forbidden Macs, however. (According to Apple, Macs with G3 or G4 upgrade cards don’t qualify.)

  As you’d probably guess, older Macs run Mac OS X slowly. The newer gear is much more fun.

• Plenty of free hard disk space. You need 1.9 GB free to install Mac OS X.

• A lot of memory. Remember that when you use Mac OS X, you’ll often be running Mac OS 9 (in the form of the Classic simulator) simultaneously. One modern operating system takes a lot of RAM; two of them require even more. Apple recommends at least 128 MB of memory, but Mac OS X absolutely loves memory. For the greatest speed, install 256 megs, 384 megs, or more if you can afford it (and these days, you probably can).

• The latest version of Mac OS 9. Once again, Mac OS X and Mac OS 9 will be coexisting on the same computer. You’ll have the best luck if you upgrade your ...