Gray screen

Joined
Nov 2, 2012
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
Points
1
I am getting the Gray screen with Folder and Question mark on bootup.

I am told by Apple man that I need to remove data from HD or install external HD?

1. Will External HD work with no OS installed on it?
2. Will external HD accept a new OS install? (I am led to believe an OS can only be installed on an internal HD).

can anyone offer any suggestions/alternatives please .

thanx...
 
Joined
Apr 24, 2009
Messages
965
Reaction score
128
Points
43
Location
UK
Your Mac's Specs
Various Mac's
It's most likely your hard drive has failed. Do you have a backup?

An external hard drive will do nothing without being initialised and having an OS installed on it. Yes, you can install an OS on an external hard drive. It will run slower than an internal drive, replacing the internal drive is the better option. What Mac do you have, what OS was installed?
 
OP
G
Joined
Nov 2, 2012
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
Points
1
Hi Steve thanks for the response.
I'm not with the iMac at this time so cannot answer your question about model etc ..
I think it is a 24" & around 2008/9.
Looks like.a new HD is the way to go.

Does it have to be a Mac HD or are they all the same?
 
Joined
Apr 24, 2009
Messages
965
Reaction score
128
Points
43
Location
UK
Your Mac's Specs
Various Mac's
Any 3.5" SATA 7200 rpm drive would be suitable. Only the newer late 2009 21.5" and 27" onwards require Apple hard drives due to issues with their temperature sensors.
 

Shop Amazon


Shop for your Apple, Mac, iPhone and other computer products on Amazon.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites.
Top