Old MacBook Pro Bricked

[Bruce_F]

So, I managed to brick my old computer trying to get it ready to pass along to someone who could use it.

Somewhere along the line in my many moves, I tossed out the original installer DVD. After wiping the computer it seemed to automatically try and install a fresh OS. I spent about an hour or so downloading the installer and accompanying files and then attempted to run the installation.

After a few minutes, I got an error message saying: "No packages were eligible for install. Contact the software manufacturer for assistance." I did that. The Apple advisor said this may be a case of the computer not having the correct time. So he directed me to open Terminal and check. The time was correct so I tried running the installer again. I got the same results. I told the advisor thanks and that I would contact the local Apple store.

The Apple Store told me they wouldn't help me and they suggested that I go to an authorized computer store. Well, that didn't sit well with me because the MacBook Pro is only worth about $25 and I'm not in the market to sell it. I'd hoped that if I could get a basic OS installed, I want to give it to someone who could use a computer.

I tried to make a USB installer but that failed. The files that were put onto the computer during my first attempt seem to be blocking the USB drive.

I checked with the library to see if they had installer disks to check out and they said no. Now I'm going to see if anyone in my family might have a copy of Leopard OS install DVD.

[jchuzi]

A quick search of ebay showed this list of Leopard install disks. Take a look.

[Bruce_F]

Thanks Jon!

[Xairbusdriver]

Before spending any money, especially at eBay, you might get some help from this Apple Community post. If you can get any form of Leopard installed, I'd highly recommend updating to the last version, 10.5.8, which is still available from Apple as a Combo updater.

[Bruce_F]

Thanks Jim,

I'll keep looking for a DVD. The files on the computer seem to have been locked somehow. I started up with my DiskWarrior on a flash drive. The Disk Utilities on there could not change or delete the installer files.

At least I know I can start up with another source such as DiskWarrior. So a DVD installer should do well.

[daryl66]

Bruce: Rummaging thru the archives (read old stuff) it looks like I am in possession of  the original 10.5 Leopard dvd. I think I should be able to copy it (never attempted to copy a DVD before) Or in the event of  failure I would sure be willing to lend  you the original. I did plug it into the DVD slot of my 2011 MBP which reads it fine. Whadda think???

Daryl 

[Bruce_F]

That's great, Daryl! My son hasn't gotten back to me yet and I have one more source to call after that. If/when I run out of options here at home, I'll let you know.

[Xairbusdriver]

If you get a valid DVD, you should still update to the last version as linked to Apple above.

[Bruce_F]

There is good news! My son has a copy or Snow Leopard!

When I started up with the installer disk, it initially saw the hard drive with an issue and wouldn't install. I had to use Disk Utility to re-format the drive and then the installer had no problem.

So, all is well.

Thanks to all for the great suggestions!

[Paddy]

Question: how old is the hard drive? If it's as old as I suspect it may be, then it may be failing. So if you have another (newer) one lying around that you can pop in the old MBP before giving it away, it might extend the life of the machine a bit. If you give it away and it fails soon after, not only will the new owner have to deal with the hard drive replacement, but they'll face the same issue you had in getting the OS reinstalled.

I don't typically trust hard drives older than about 5 years - or make sure they're backed up well.

[Bruce_F]

Sorry for the delayed reply, Paddy. I haven't been back to see replies since I sold the MB Pro. 

I replaced the hard drive with a solid state maybe two years ago and just recently replaced the battery. I'm hoping it will be a good basic computer for whoever has it now. I sold it for $50 on Offer UP.