How This Tip Works
Jaguar includes a Safe Boot procedure. At startup it
disables all non-essential text files (stored in
/System/Library/Extensions) and third-party Startup Items (located in
/Library/StartupItems). This is very useful if one of these items has
become corrupt and is preventing a normal startup.
To perform a Safe Boot, hold down the Shift key at
startup immediately after you hear the chimes. Keep holding it until
the Mac logo appears on the screen. If you were successful, the words
"Safe Boot" should now appear in the logo box. You can now release the
Shift key.
The advantage of a Safe Boot is that it can
circumvent a startup crash or kernel panic that one of these files
might trigger if it tried to load. Once you have succeeded in starting
up, you can locate the problem file and remove it from its folder. If
you have no idea which file is the culprit, suspect recently added
and/or third-party files. Once you disable the guilty party, you can
restart normally. Contact the vendor of the file for further advice. |