Are install disks computer specific?

What I mean is, if I have an install disk for an iBook,but I have a Powerbook can it be used to install or in my case re-install the OS?

Here's the deal, I had to zero out my drive (80 GIG),didn't have an install disk and didn't think to make one (hey it's a Mac not a PC).

Got an install disk from a friend (an iBook disk), was able to zero the the volume but not able to install the soft from the iBook disk.

Why?! Is it because it's an iBook specific disk?

I had 10.5.5 installed,but since i've zeroed,I need to re-install 10.4 to use the 10.5 upgrade disk.

Yes, install discs are model specific. You cannot take the restore discs from an iBook and use them on a Powerbook.

That's right, they're model specific. This is because those discs are only intended to be used on the machine they were sold with. Your best bet would be to pick up a copy of Leopard or contact Apple for replacement System Discs.

I don't think Apple makes upgrade discs the way Microsoft does. I'm guessing you have a full blown copy of Leopard there in your hands. Have you tried installing from the "upgrade" disc by itself?

edit:


LOL - you guys are too fast.