folder that flashes a question mark

I am new to macs and i just bought a used mac mini, i pluged it in and it powered on made the start up tune, but all i get on the monitor is a small picture of a folder that flashes a question mark and the finder icon. What does this mean, what do i need to do?

Also there is a disk in it how do i eject it?

Your computer probably has no operating system on it...you need to install an OS.

You can also give this a read:

http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/os-x-operating-system/162425-flashing-question-mark-start-up.html

- Nick

Hi welcome to the forums.

It looks like whomever sold you the Mac wiped out the OS before giving it to you. I would bet the disk in the machine is probably your original OSX install disk.

Reboot the mini and hit the 'c' key while the machine is booting. This will force the machine to start from the DVD. You then need to install OSX.

OK thanks, what about ejecting the disk that is in there?

It depends on what type of mini it is, for Intel based mini's have a look here:

Startup key combinations for Intel-based Macs

turbodub said:

OK thanks, what about ejecting the disk that is in there?

Click to expand...

If you have a key in the upper right (top row) of your keyboard with a solid colored triangle on it...try pushing it.

- Nick

Or try boot and hold down the mouse button.

Hey guys...That neon sign at the top of the page is not working.