PowerPC-based Macintosh: How to eject a disc when other options don't work

  • Last Modified: July 11, 2008
  • Article: HT2179
  • Old Article: 106752

Summary

On a PowerPC-based Macintosh (but not an Intel-based Macintosh), you may use Open Firmware to eject a CD or DVD disc when normal methods for ejecting it have not succeeded.

Products Affected

Xserve G5, Xserve (Slot Load), Xserve (Cluster Node), Xserve, Mac mini (Late 2005), Mac mini, iMac G5 (20-Inch iSight), iMac G5 (17-Inch iSight), iMac (USB 2.0), iMac (Summer 2001), iMac (Flat Panel), iBook, PowerBook, Power Mac, eMac, iMac G5 ALS (17-Inch), iMac G5 ALS (20-Inch), iMac (Summer 2000), iMac (Slot Loading), iMac (266 MHz)

To eject a disc with Open Firmware commands, follow these steps:

  1. Restart the computer.
  2. Immediately after the startup sound, press and hold the key combination Command-Option-O-F.
    Note: The Command key has the Apple and () icons on it.
  3. Release the keys when you see a white screen that says "Welcome to Open Firmware."
  4. At the prompt, type: eject cd
  5. Press Return, then wait a few seconds. The disc drive should eject any disc that is present, and "ok" appears behind your command when the action is complete.
  6. Type: mac-boot
  7. Press Return.

Your computer should now start up normally.

Additional Information

51008: "iMac: If You Can't Eject a CD or DVD, or Open the Drive Tray"

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