05-30-2009, 04:55 PM

Here is my problem I just bought a refurbished imac with OS 10.5 installed but not setup.I do not have the original DVD.
When it boots I go through the setup steps register ,setup network, create user account etc.
I created a user account with user = user name and shortname = username and then the password.
It then brings me to the login screen ,I enter the correct user name (shortname) and password but does not login "panel shakes" I've done this a couple of times with same results.
To verify that this user was created I booted into "single user mode"
mounted as root and looked for /Users/username or /Local/Users/username
There was no username any were on the disk.
The INSTALLED OS 10.5 is not letting me create a user for whatever reason I cannot figure out.I have spent many hours on this .
I've even tried to create a user account in "single user mode" command line
with no success.
Am I missing something ? I know I'll have to buy the OS X SOFTWARE at a later date but right now I can not afford it.
At the moment I have an expensive paper weight on my desk.I'd really appreciate your help.
Thank you

05-30-2009, 05:39 PM

What do u mean in the first line - installed but not set up? My recollection is that to do an installation part of that process involves using a password to complete installation - were you given that password when u got the iMac, if not go back and ask for it. Secondly with the original install disk it is easy to get in and change the passwords - go back to vendor and ask for that as it should have been included with the sale.

05-30-2009, 10:20 PM

All I know is when I first turned it on the setup process began and I was not asked for any password.At what point does is this password prompt ?
No I was given no password or any disk nor is the vendor willing to supply the disk.
I'm fairly certain that with an original disk and re-install it would probably fix my problem.But as I said in my original post that is not an option at this time.
As anyone else seen this where the setup prompts you to create a user account and then does not save it.
Is there a way to create a user account through the command line ?

05-31-2009, 12:03 AM

yes - there is a work around with terminal see here - Reset OS X Password Without an OS X CD but if you are new to Terminal be very careful it has great potential for majors.