Hi, I am the original poster who has the problem... to answer the questions, my iBook is definitely a G4, and I bought it originally as an individual from the Apple store in Atlanta, no special customization. I have two original install disks that read, "Mac OS version 10.3.5" and "Disk version 1.0". I also have a third original disk that reads "Additional Software and Apple Hardware Test". It also says "AHT version 2.2.1" and "Disk Version 1.0". I think my disk drive is just hinky, I have tried to do a clean install rebooting and holding down the "C" key, I have tried to insert the first disk in the disk drive, and in neither case will the computer even recognize the disk. Any other suggestions from anyone? I would like to do a complete clean install of all my software if possible.