Black screen after OS X 10.6.8 update

I'm having to update my version of iTunes, and by default my version of OS X to accommodate my new ipod. It will not work with my current set up.

When updating from OS X 10.6.2 to 10.6.8 via 'Mac OS X update combined' in software update, I get a black screen after instillation. I've heard of others having this problem but haven't seen any clear way of rectifying it that I can understand (I'm not that technically literate when it comes to computers).

The computer seems to run in the background but with no screen image. All I get is a check video cable, which I think is an actual screen message, rather than coming from my desk top.

Is there any work around or direct fix? Thanks,


Mac Pro
OS X 10.6.2
3.32 GHz Qaud-Core Intel Xeon
3 GB 1066 MHz DDR3
ATI Radeon HD 4870

You should try to repair your hard drive by one of these methods:
Resolve startup issues and perform disk maintenance with Disk Utility and fsck

Let us know the result.

Tried a Safe Mode boot?

Yes, I started up in safe mode after it happened and performed disk maintenance. There were a few things that it fixed, but the black screen remained. It was then that I reloaded OS X from the Install DVD, but that put me back to the start. So I'm still on 10.6.2.

Try downloading 10.6.8 Combo Updater directly (Not through Software Update system):
Mac OS X 10.6.8 Update Combo v1.1

I haven't tried it that way. I'll give it a go.