Member Avatar for billybuddd

Finally retiring old PowerPro 225 running OS 8.5. Getting a bomb on startup with message that there is a bus error. Will boot with original CD, but won't allow a reinstall, stating that the hard drive is locked. Will boot with extensions disabled, but can't get on network to copy old files to new drive. Have tried Conflict Catcher, but it can't get past the first test. I sense that if I unlock the hard drive, the problem will correct itself. How do I do that? The info box doesn't have a "Lock" checkbox.

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A short, practical checklist for the “hard drive locked” symptom on an older PowerPro running Mac OS 8.5, with safe recovery-first priorities (building on ’s hardware note and ’s report).

Boot-time utilities and non‑destructive fixes — The installer’s “locked” message usually means the installer cannot write to the volume (corrupt directory/partition map or the volume won’t unmount). Boot the machine from the install CD and run the CD’s utilities (Disk First Aid / Drive Setup) to verify and attempt repairs. If the volume can be verified and repaired the installer will usually proceed. Repairs are non‑destructive unless a full reformat is chosen.

Data‑first recovery options — If repair fails, preserve files before any erase. The safest choices are: attach the drive to another Mac (SCSI/IDE as appropriate) or connect via an IDE/SCSI–to–USB adapter and copy files to another disk; or make a sector image (so the original drive can later be handed to a recovery service). Windows tools that read HFS, or a Linux box with HFS support, can also extract files. Imaging or copying first avoids losing data on a forced reformat.

When to reformat and how — Once data is safe, repartition/format from Drive Setup using Apple Partition Map with Mac OS Extended (HFS+) for best compatibility with OS 8.5, then re-run the installer. That will clear a “locked” state but erases everything.

Hardware and caution notes — Mechanical “fixes” have helped some older drives (as observed) but carry risk. Prefer reseating power/data cables, checking jumper/termination settings and testing with another known‑good drive before any physical shocks. If the drive fails to spin, makes grinding noises, or utilities can’t access it, professional recovery is the prudent option.

Member Avatar for normanhilda

Hi Hope I can help. I have had the same problem with Mac 7100 O/S .8.6. All you get is the flashing ?. If this is a table top. The hard drive is stuck from lack of use. Or been UN Plugged for some time. Press the start button and with the handle of a screw driver give the case just pass the center a good whack. Don’t be scared to whack it two or three times. If it does not start up try again. I know this sounds rough treatment but it should work. If Not then remove the case cover you will be able to see the hard drive. Press start and whack on top of the hard drive. You should hear the hard drive start. Best of luck Norm.

Member Avatar for billybuddd

Hi Hope I can help. I have had the same problem with Mac 7100 O/S .8.6. All you get is the flashing ?. If this is a table top. The hard drive is stuck from lack of use. Or been UN Plugged for some time. Press the start button and with the handle of a screw driver give the case just pass the center a good whack. Don’t be scared to whack it two or three times. If it does not start up try again. I know this sounds rough treatment but it should work. If Not then remove the case cover you will be able to see the hard drive. Press start and whack on top of the hard drive. You should hear the hard drive start. Best of luck Norm.

You are so right! My only reason for keeping this CPU was to use the ancient scanner hooked into it. Having not heard from anyone, I re-installed the original operating software and donated it. Giving it a good whack would probably have done the the trick.

Thanks.

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