PowerBook G4 no password or install discs Solved/Closed

Question

Hello,
I bought a PowerBook G4 from an individual without the install discs.   I don't have the system password either.  I need to delete the previous owner's info and set it up for me.  
I 've reviewed previous discussions here but the instructions aren't working other than the disc check command.  Can someone give me more detailed info on what to enter?

savesthedayguy · Accepted Answer

All you need is nothing: OK, restart your computer, hold down Command-S and type in the following: 

/sbin/fsck -y [Enter] 
/sbin/mount -uaw [Enter] 
rm /var/db/.applesetupdone [Enter] 
reboot [Enter] 

Once you've done that the computer reboots and ask you to set up an admin password. From there you just change all other account passwords in the account preferences

Andre · Answer

Restart with OS  X disk and hold down c.  You can reset the password with the disk.

Jack Kallo · Answer

I was able to create a new username and password, but now it seems that I may have lost all of my daughter's years of data.

Does this wipe the hard drive?

If not, how do I bring her stuff back up?

She is going to freak out if I tell her that several years of information is gone.  I was supposed to back this information up ....   I fear that critical information could be lost.

Your assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Basically ... the optical drive was broken ... I forgot her password ... was simply trying to install the security upgrades, etc.

PowerBook G4 no password or install discs

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