HOW TO INSTALL OPERATING SYSTEM 7.6 THEN UPDATE IT TO 7.6.1
Version 1.4
(C)1997 Charles Downs
Revised April 30, 1997 to:
* Describe a conflict between RamDoubler and QuickDraw 3D.
* Describe newly discovered Virtual Memory and Startup Disk itches (see KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH 7.6/7.6.1 below).
* Include a more complete list of Mac models affected by the L2 Cache problem -- which is solved by installing the 54XX-64XX Cache Reset extension.
See KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH 7.6/7.6.1 below.
PROLOGUE
The following information has been complied from many sources. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information. Your comments regarding omissions, errors or suggested additions to this file are appreciated. Address them to 74521,626, or cdowns@compuserve.com.
As always, before performing any disk maintenance procedures or the installation of any system files, you should create two back-up copies of your data (three copies is better) then store one back-up at a location other than where you use your computer. Backups that burn up along with a computer are useless. Safe-deposit boxes are cool, dry, and seldom catch fire.
The procedures detailed in this document have been tested and proven on an 86030, 86040 and a PowerPC Macintosh, and a Motorola StarMax clone. Every one of these installations went without a hitch. It should work for you IF YOU DO NOT SKIP ANY STEPS.
WHAT IS SYSTEM 7.6 AND THE 7.6.1 UPDATE?
System 7.6 is a total system upgrade. It is not necessary to have any earlier operating system version. System 7.6 must be installed before you can run the 7.6.1 updater. The updater provides several bug fixes and enhancements. If you install 7.6, you should also install the 7.6.1 updater unless you have a Mac which uses a "localized" (non-U.S.) version of 7.6. Localized versions of the Update will be released early in July 1997, according to Apple, at http://www.info.euro.apple.com/Apple.Support.Area/Apple.Software.Updates.
WHO CAN USE SYSTEM 7.6?
System 7.6 can be installed on the following computers:
* Those with PowerPC processors (including Mac clones)
* Those with 68040 processors
* Those with 32-bit-clean 68030 processors.
You cannot install System 7.6 on the following:
* IIx
* IIcx
* SE/30
* SE
* Plus
* 512
WHERE CAN I GET "FOREIGN" VERSIONS OF 7.6/7.6.1
Added 4/25
"Localized" versions of the new system software for "foreign" Macs may be obtained at
http://support.info.apple.com/ftp/7.6.1.html
IF YOU HAVE ONE OF THE NEWEST MACS, YOU MAY NEED A SPECIAL VERSION OF 7.6/7.6.1
Revised 4/25
Some newer Macintoshes do not support System 7.6; however, customers who have purchased one of these computers can obtain a full install of 7.6.1 through the Mac OS Up-To-Date program. The computers are the Power Macintosh 4400, 5500, 6500, 7300, 8600 and 9600, and any Performa versions of these computers. For more information, see
http://support.info.apple.com/ftp/7.6.1.html
or in the U.S. and Canada call (800) 335-9258.
WHERE CAN I PURCHASE SYSTEM 7.6?
System 7.6 is available from the usual mail-order sources (MacWarehouse, MacMall, etc.) or in the U.S. and Canada call (800) 335-9258. The price: $129 (floppy disks); $99.95 (CD); or $69.95 for those who can provide proof of purchase (a photocopy of the installer disk or CD) of System 7.5.
Customers who recently purchased an Apple computer, or a clone, which came equipped with an earlier version of the operating system may, depending on when they purchased the computer, obtain a System 7.6 CD for $9.95. Details are available from http://www.macos.apple.com/macos/releases/fulfillment.html or call (800) 335-9258.
WHERE CAN I OBTAIN THE 7.6.1 UPDATE?
(Some of the following file names were incorrect in previous versions of this file. The names were corrected on 4/25/97.)
From Library 16 of the MAUG(R) Macintosh Developer Forum (GO MACDEV). You will need to download the following:
MOS71D1.IMG
MOS761D2.IMG
MOS761D3.IMG
MOS761D4.IMG
ABOUT761.TXT
You will also need the file
DSKCPY61.SEA
with which to convert the resulting image files to usable or virtual floppy disks. Convert the files before beginning the 7.6 installation.
You should also download
DISINFO.TXT
DSMAK761.IMG
which automate using Disk Copy 6.1.2 to convert images to usable files.
You might also want to download the manual for DiskCopy 6.1.2, which is available as
DC612M.IMG
in Library 20 of MACDEV. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader 2.1 or later with which to read the file.
CONVERT THE FILES BEFORE BEGINNING THE 7.6 INSTALLATION.
Alternately, you may download
MOS761N.SEA
the "net install" version. This file takes the place of the four installer disks listed above. Download one or the other, not both. If you download the net install version, be sure to also download
ABOUT761.TXT.
POWERBOOK 3400 USERS: READ THIS!
The Mac OS 7.6.1 Update floppy kit will not install on the PowerBook 3400 due to the special version of Mac OS 7.6 shipped with this computer. PB3400 users must download the following from Library 20 of MACDEV:
PB34761D1.IMG
PB34761D2.IMG
PB34761D3.IMG
PB34761D4.IMG
PB34761D5.IMG
You will also need the file
DSKCPY61.SEA
with which to convert the resulting image files to usable or virtual floppy disks. Convert the files before beginning the 7.6 installation.
You should also download
DISINFO.TXT
DSMAK761.IMG
which will automate the process of using Disk Copy 6.1.2 to convert images to usable files.
You might also want to download the manual for DiskCopy 6.1.2, which is available as
DC612M.IMG
in Library 20 of MACDEV. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader 2.1 or later with which to read the file. You may download
READER3.INS
from Library 1 of MACDEV if you don't have Adobe Acrobat.
The net install version is also available as
PB34761N.SEA
Either way, you should also download
PB761.TXT
which contains update information.
EVERYONE SHOULD DOWNLOAD
OS761QA.TXT
OS761NI.TXT
FROM MACDEV LIBRARY 16 AND READ THEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO UPDATE. THESE FILES CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT CAN SAVE YOU A GREAT DEAL OF ANGST.
MEMORY AND STORAGE REQUIREMENTS
Your Macintosh must have at least 8MB of physical RAM to use System 7.6, although this amount is marginal. I would recommend that you do not install 7.6 unless you have at least 16MB of RAM. Although you can use Virtual Memory (VM) to use a portion of your hard disk as virtual RAM, this will slow the operation of your computer somewhat. However, 7.6 Virtual Memory is significantly faster than previous system versions. RAM is cheap. Buy some real RAM if you need it.
System 7.6 automatically turns on VM. It will not turn VM on, however, in 030 and 040 Macs in which more than 16MB of physical RAM is installed. It will not turn VM on in any computer in which RAM Doubler is installed and active.
You will need between 40MB and 120MB of free space on your hard drive to run the installer, depending on how much of System 7.6 you install. Most of this space is used by temporary files which are trashed by the installer when the installation is complete. The actual system footprint is somewhere around 5 to 10MB depending on which components you install and the capacity of your hard disk.
You should always keep a minimum of 10 percent of your hard disk space free because some applications need temporary storage space on your HD and will not function without enough free space. If, after installing System 7.6 and updating it to 7.6.1, you do not have 10 percent of your HD capacity free, you should archive or dispose of some files or applications.
To check the amount of free space you have, open your hard disk icon and choose By Icon or Small Icon from the View menu. The number in the far-right corner of the window's title bar indicates free space.
If you have a removable cartridge drive (SyQuest or Iomega, for instance), you can install 7.6 on a cartridge, update it to 7.6.1, then move the resulting System Folder to your hard drive. You, of course, would want to rename your existing system folder "Previous System Folder" (without the quotes) before moving the newly-created system folder to your hard disk. More details about this, later.
SYSTEM ENHANCEMENTS
System 7.6.1 offers many enhancements not found in System 7.5.x. You won't "see" much difference. Windows and icons look pretty much the same, but the differences are important.
Some of the improvements include:
* Nearly all Type 11 errors are eliminated.
* Type 112 errors in multimedia applications are eliminated.
* CFM-68K Runtime Enabler included for 68030 and 68040 Macs.
* Improved compatibility with serial devices for Performa 5400 and 6400 and PowerBook 3400 computers.
* Infrared problems fixed on PowerBook 1400 and 3400 computers.
* Improved QuickTime reliability.
* Printing improvements for Performa and PowerMac 5400 and 6400.
* Storage PC Cards no longer require utility program to appear.
* PowerBook 1400s wake from sleep faster.
* PowerBook 1400 contrast and brightness control problem fixed.
* CD-ROM drive fix for PowerBook 3400.
* New version of Apple System Profiler.
* New version of AppleVision software.
* New version of Apple Video Player for PB 3400s.
* Energy Saver settings are saved properly.
7.5.X EXTENSIONS YOU NO LONGER NEED
After installing 7.6.1, you no longer need the following extensions (if they are present) in the Extensions Folder within the System Folder. Do not move them from the "Previous System Folder" to the new System Folder:
54xx/64xx Update version 1.o
54xx/64xx Update version 1.1
7.5.5 SCSI Server Update
Assistant Toolbox
PCI Network Legacy Layer version 1.0
PCI Network Legacy Loader version 1.0
PowerBook 1400 ATA Flash
PowerBook 1400 PMU Updater
PowerBook VM Tuner for OS 7.6
PowerMac Format Patch
PowerPC Interrupt Extension
***KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH 7.6./7.6.1***
If you have Internet access, you may find late-breaking information about 7.6/7.6.1 problems at
HOWTO761.TXT will be revised as necessary to inform you of new information about 7.6 and 7.6.1 problems. Check any MAUG(R) forum CompuServe for revision notices. Watch for a message titled "HOWTO761.TXT REVISED."
This is a brief list of known 7.6.1 problems. Some of these glitches may be resolved soon by Apple. Others may not be resolved until the next major system update.
* L2 CACHE PROBLEM RESOLVED (?)
Added 4/25 (Source: Apple Computer); Revised 4/29
Many Apple Performa and Power Macintosh computers now include an L2 cache which improves your overall system performance. Apple is aware of a problem which disables the L2 cache feature on some Performa and Power Macintosh computers after installing Mac OS 7.6.1 or the 54xx/64xx Update extension version 1.1. This problem also occurs on several models of Mac OS-compatible computers based on Apple's logic boards with an L2 cache. The 54xx/64xx L2 Cache Reset extension corrects this problem (enabling the L2 cache) and improves performance on affected computers. The extension will be available in MACDEV Library 16 on 4/30 or 5/1.
You need this extension if you update to System 7.6.1 and you have a:
PowerMacintosh 5400
Performa 5400
Performa 5410
Performa 5420
Performa 5430
Performa 5440
Performa 6360
PowerMacintosh 6400
Performa 6400
Performa 6410
Performa 6420
-- OR --
-- A Power Macintosh or Performa 6360/54xx/64xx computer and System Software 7.5.3 or later and the "54xx/64xx Update 1.1" extension
* Added 4/30
RAM DOUBLER/QUICKDRAW 3D CONFLICT
According to Ted Landau's MacFixit Page, Connectix has confirmed the existence of a conflict between Ram Doubler 2 and QuickDraw 3D, version 1.06 and 1.5, when 7.6.1 is installed. A Type 11 error may occur when you launch Internet Explorer, then SimpleText, then quit the applications. Seems to happen regardless of the order in which the applications are started and quit.
* Added 4/30
STARTUP DELAY
If you have installed System 7.6.1 and experience a new delay (30 seconds or more) in the startup process from power off, open the Startup Disk Control Panel and highlight your startup disk. This may solve a problem in which the System becomes confused about where the startup disk is.
* Added 4/30
SLOW PERFORMANCE DUE TO VM
Some who have installed 7.6.1 are experiences slow performance which has been traced to the Virtual Memory enhancements which are a part of the system update.
Some users report the problem is solved when VM is disabled, and RAM Doubler is used instead.
Apple has not, as far as I know, acknowledged this problem.
* Added/Revised 4/25
IDE DRIVER UPDATE PROBLEM
If you run the Mac OS 7.6 Installer on older Performas and LCs equipped with IDE drives not formatted with Apple's Drive Setup formatting utility may encounter the message, "This media is not partitioned, unable to update the driver" when attempting to update the driver software in Step 2 of the installation process.
--OR_
If you run the Mac OS 7.6 Installer on a drive which has been formatted with the Internal HD Format program included on 580 Series, 630 Series, 5200 Series and 6200 Series computers and attempt to update the driver software as instructed, you will be told "This media is not partitioned, unable to update the driver."
You will have to backup all your data and reformat your dive with Drive Setup to enable the 7.6 installer write a new driver to the driver partition. The alternative is to skip Step 2, although I would recommend that you reformat and rewrite the driver partition.
An alternative would be to skip the driver update procedure. It is not known what effect this will have on operation of the hard drive or the system software. It's worth a try.
* Revised 4/25/97 (Source: Apple Computer)
LOST MONITOR RESOLUTIONS
Resolutions are lost after installing Mac OS 7.6.1 on NuBus-based Power Macintosh computers with 1710-series AppleVision Displays connected to the AV Display Connector. This problem also occurs on the High Performance Video card for Non-AV Power Macintosh 7100 and 8100 computers. There may be other AV cards that exhibit this problem.
The resolution loss can occur Power Macintosh 6100, 7100, or 8100 computer with an AppleVision 1710 or 1710AV display connected to the AV Display Connector, all resolutions above 640 x 480 are no longer selectable. The display is still recognized as an AppleVision display, and all of the other AppleVision features still function (color calibration, geometry settings, etc.).
Apple is aware of this problem, and is working on a solution.
This issue does not apply to any PCI-based Power Macintosh computer. Nubus Power Macintosh computers include all Power Macintosh 6100, 7100, and 8100 configurations.
Workaround: If a screen resolution other than 640 by 480 is required in this situation, the immediate solution is to do one of the following:
* Connect the AppleVision Display to the built-in video connector. This will provide all of the resolution options supported by built-in video (640 by 480 and 832 by 624).
--OR--
* Perform a clean install of Mac OS 7.6 without updating to 7.6.1. This will provide all of the resolution options supported by the AV Display Connector. Apple recommends installing the most current version of AppleVision software, version 1.5.2.
In either event, you should install the latest version of AppleVision software:
AVIS152.TXT
AVIS1521.IMG
AVIS1522.IMG
AVIS1523.IMG
These image files are available from the Mac Developers Forum (GO MACDEV), Library 18.
You will also need the file
DSKCPY61.SEA
with which to convert the resulting image files to usable or virtual floppy disks.
* Added 4/21/97
SHUTDOWN FREEZE
Some who install 7.6.1 experience system freezes on shut-down.
Three suggested fixes are:
*If you use a RAM disk, turn the disk off before shutting down.
*If you use TCP/IP (internet connection software), open the TCP/IP control panel and uncheck "Load only when needed."
*If you use AfterDark Online and Norton Utilities, turn off File Saver's prevention preferences, or uninstall AfterDark Online.
* EASY INSTALL OF 7.6 NOT AVAILABLE AFTER 7.6.1 INSTALLED
Once you install 7.6.1, you can no longer use the "easy" install option to reinstall 7.6. You must perform a "clean" install of 7.6. Then, you should run the 7.6.1 updater to ensure that you have the latest version of all system software.
You can perform a Custom Install from 7.6 to install specific components. However, you may be warned that the file already installed is newer than the one you are about to install. Click"Newer" to keep the newer file.
After the Mac OS 7.6 installer finishes installing selected components, you should then reinstall the 7.6.1 update to ensure the components you just installed are up-to-date.
* CHECK YOUR DISK CACHE SETTING AFTER INSTALLING 7.6.1
7.6.1 resets the disk cache to 96K, causing the computer to slow down considerably. After installation is complete, you should open the Memory Control Panel and set the disk cache to (rule-of-thumb) 32 times the number of megabytes of RAM you have installed.
For instance, for a Mac with 20MB of physical ram installed, the rule-of-thumb would dictate 640K of disk cache. You should use the nearest larger setting, 768K. Many people simply set the disk cache to 1024K and don't worry about it. Setting it far larger than necessary probably will not improve the performance of your computer.
* UPDATE CONNECTIX SPEED DOUBLER
Connectix Speed Doubler will be disabled automatically when 7.6.1 is installed. There is a problem using Speed Doubler versions 1.3.1 and earlier, and version 2.0 with Mac OS 7.6.
One fix which worked for me, is to purchase Speed Doubler 2.0 then update to Speed Doubler 2.0.3. GO CONNECTIX for the updater.
Connectix says you can use 1.3.2 (which is not as fast as 2.0.3). They posted the following in GO CONNECTIX:
Actually, 7.6.1 will disable 1.3.2 unless you reinstall it after applying the 7.6.1 update. What you want to do is restart your Mac with the extensions off (hold the "shift" key while restarting) and then remove these items (Note: you can remove all of these except for the prefs. by launching the installer and choosing "remove"):
Extensions:
.Speed Access
.Speed Copy
.Speed Emulator
Preferences:
.Speed Access Prefs. (if present)
.Speed Copy Prefs.
Once you've removed these extensions and preferences reinstall Speed Doubler. The system should then boot up correctly. If it does not, you may be having an extension conflict and you will want to boot with only the three Speed Doubler extensions loading to confirm this (Note: you can do this with the Extensions Manager control panel but it will not eliminate the fonts which can sometimes be the cause of the conflict):
Start up your Macintosh with the shift held down so the extensions are off.
Open the System Folder and move the Font Folder, Extension Folder, and the Control Panel out of the System Folder and onto your Desktop. Create temporary folders on your desktop and copy all of your fonts, control panels and extensions into them "EXCEPT" for Speed Access, Speed Copy, and Speed Emulator, leave them in the Extensions Folder, then, restart your Macintosh .
If this works, then bring back the Fonts from the temp folder into the System Folder, and restart your Macintosh.
If there is a problem with one of the fonts, you will need to isolate them down in order to determine which one conflicting. (If you do this with half of them at a time, the process will much be faster), .
If there is no problem with the Fonts, then bring back the control panels and follow the same steps outlined above.
Finally, follow the same procedure with the extensions.
Once you have isolated the font, control panel or extension that is in conflict, you will have to determine if it is simply incompatible or if it needs to be replaced, updated or discarded.
* RUNTIME ENABLER
Some Apple software products compatible with 030 and 040 Macs require the CFM-68K Runtime Enabler which is not provided with 7.6.1. You may obtain it from MACDEV Library 16. You should download
CFM6840.TXT
CFM68040.SEA
* LW 8.3.4 PROBLEMS
LaserWriter 8.3.4, installed by 7.6 and 7.6.1, may cause problems when dragging a file to a desktop printer. If you have this problem, you should download LaserWriter 8.4.1 from Library 19 of MACDEV.
* POWERTALK NO LONGER WORKS
PowerTalk is not compatible with Mac OS 7.6. Once you install 7.6, you will not be able to use PowerTalk services. See page 49 of the Mac OS 7.6 Installation Manual for further information.
* EXTENSIONS MANAGER BUG
Selecting "Mac OS 7.6.1 Base" and "Mac OS 7.6.1 All" in Extensions Manager mistakenly turns off the Monitors Control Panel. You can use Extensions Manager to manually turn the Monitors Control Panel on. It also mistakenly turns off Printing Lib, disabling printing. Again, use Extensions Manager to turn Printing Lib on.
* EXTERNAL SPEAKERS BECOME MUTED
If external speakers are connected to a Power Mac 5500 or 6500 when the computer is started and are then disconnected, the internal speakers remain muted. Restart the computer after disconnecting the external speakers. The internal speakers will then work normally.
* IOMEGA DRIVER UPDATE
Mac OS 7.6.1 installs Iomega Driver 5.0.3, if you have an older version already installed. You need at least version 5.0.1 of Zip Tools with the 5.0.3 driver. If you are using Zip Tools 4.3.2, Zip Tools will not open after updating to 7.6.1.
Three sources of good information about Macintosh systems are,
Apple's 7.6 support page at http://www.support.info.apple.com/ftp/7.6.1/7.6.1download.html
And best of all, in the MAUG(R) Mac OS Forum, GO MACSYS.
I STRONGLY SUGGEST THAT YOU READ THE TXT FILES AVAILABLE IN MACDEV (LISTED ABOVE) BEFORE YOU INSTALL 7.6 OR THE 7.6.1 UPDATER.
HOW TO INSTALL SYSTEM 7.6
The System 7.6 CD comes with a well-written instruction manual. You should read the manual and feel comfortable with the installation process before beginning.
Before you do anything else:
1. If At Ease software is installed, turn it off. If you don't know how, consult the At Ease documentation.
2. If you are installing the software on a PowerBook, plug the computer into the wall outlet. Make sure it is set not to go to sleep.
3. Break out your Disk Tools disk, boot with it, and run Disk First Aid. If your system software came on a CD, you'll find Disk First Aid or an image of the Disk Tools disk on the CD. If you find an image, you'll need to use Disk Copy (also on the CD) to convert the image to a usable floppy. You cannot run Disk First Aid on your hard disk if you booted the system from the hard disk. If DFA finds anything wrong and can fix it, run it again. Problem A can mask Problem B. When you get a squeaky-clean scan, you can quit DFA.
4. If you have Norton Utilities (everyone should have Norton Utilities), run Norton Disk Doctor in the same way -- until you get a clean scan.
ADDED 4/21
Symantec will release Norton Utilities Disk Doctor 3.5 -- probably at the end of April. I suggest you update to this new version. It contains a MUCH IMPROVED Speed Disk which defragmented and optimized two 2.2GB HDs in my evaluation of the beta version in 10 minutes or less!
5. IF YOU HAVE AN HP PRINTER, REMOVE THE "HP BACKGROUND" EXTENSION FROM YOUR EXTENSIONS FOLDER, PARK IT OUTSIDE THE SYSTEM FOLDER AND RESTART. THE INSTALLER WILL NOT RUN WITH THE HP BACKGROUND EXTENSION ACTIVE. The Installer will advise you if other files must be disabled before the installation can proceed.
6. Disable all virus protection software and restart your computer.
7. Quit all applications. The only application which should be running is the Finder.
RUNNING THE INSTALLER
The 7.6 Installation Manual provides excellent instructions for using the Installer. Do not skip any steps!
After you insert the CD and double-click "Install MacOS," you'll see a screen in which there are four steps.
1. Read Important Information
Here, you'll find information compiled after the installation manual was printed. It's very important to read the material. It won't take long.
2. Update your hard disk driver
Many, many problems experienced by those who updated to System 7.5.5 occurred because people skipped this step. If your hard drive was formatted with Apple software, it is vital that you update the driver. If the updater reports that the drive update failed, or that it cannot find a hard drive, it indicates that your hard drive was not supplied by Apple, or that it has been reformatted with software other than Apple's. In this case, you may skip this step (as the installer will tell you), but I recommend that you determine what software was used to format the disk, and that you obtain the latest version and update the driver.
WARNING: IF YOU INSTALL MAC OS 7.6 ON AN APPLE HARD DRIVE FORMATTED WITH HD SC SETUP 7.2.1 OR EARLIER WITHOUT FIRST UPDATING THE DISK DRIVER, YOU WILL MOST PROBABLY LOSE ALL YOUR DATA. SHOULD THIS HAPPEN, YOU MAY BE ABLE TO RECOVER THE DATA WITH A DISK RECOVERY APPLICATION OR BY SENDING THE HARD DISK TO A DATA RECOVERY SERVICE.
3. Choose a disk for installation
Select the hard disk on which you wish to install System 7.6. If you wish to install it on more than one disk, you may repeat the installation process for subsequent disks after installing the software on the first disk.
4. Install the software
It is during Step 4 that you get to choose what parts of System 7.6 you wish to install, and to elect to do a "clean" install.
If, when you get to the Software Installation window that states, "Click Start to install the Mac OS 7.6 basic system and any selected software on [name of drive]," and click "Start," you will perform a "dirty" install. Your existing system software may be slightly corrupt -- the same as being slightly pregnant. If you punch the Start button now, I can almost guarantee that you are going to have problems later on -- perhaps not today, but one day soon.
I STRONGLY recommend that you perform a "clean" install. This procedure will install a virgin copy of the System Folder, while renaming your existing folder "Previous System Folder." This is the only way to ensure that you are installing a new system that is free of corruption.
If you have clicked on Step 4, you now see a window which gives you the option of installing certain software.
* If you do not have a PowerPC (if you have an 030 or 040 Mac), you cannot use and should not install QuickDraw 3D or Cyberdog.
* If you do not use your computer to communicate, via modem, with an Apple Remote Access Server, there is no point in installing Apple Remote Access Client.
* English Text-To-Speech allows you to have some word processing applications read text to you in a synthesized voice. I use it all the time to proofread documents.
* If you do not have an Apple GX printer, you should NOT install QuickDraw GX. If you do, and you do not have the required print driver for your printer, you will no longer be able to print.
Now, click on the "Customize" button. You will again have some installation options.
* If you do not have a PowerPC, you cannot use and should not install OpenDoc or OpenDoc Essentials. And, don't check QuickDraw or Cyberdog. See Apple Remote Access, above.
DO NOT PRESS THE START BUTTON. PRESS THE OPTIONS BUTTON, INSTEAD:
* Select "Create new System Folder."
* Select "Check Destination Disk."
* Click "OK."
NOW YOU MAY PRESS THE START BUTTON. The "Easy Install" dialog box appears. You may now click on the "Install" button.
The installer will now take some time to check your hard disk for any problems, and repair it if necessary.
Next, the Easy Install dialog box will appear.
If you select "Custom Install" from the Easy Install menu, you will be offered the option of installing or not installing various system components. Click on the box containing an "i" at the right of each item for an explanation of the function of the various items. This is a good chance to gain some understanding of the function of various system components. Click in the box to the left of each item you wish to install. You must select one or more items. If you do not wish to make such decisions, re-select "Easy Install" in the menu.
The Custom Install feature will also allow you to reinstall certain portions of the software at a later date. For instance, you might wish to reinstall the printing portion of System 7.6 should part of it become damaged. Should you do this, rerun the 7.6.1 Updater to ensure that the installed system components are up-to-date.
When you're satisfied, click the "Install" button. This would be a good time to make some coffee or feed the cat. It will take a while for the basic install to be completed.
After the basic install is finished, you will be asked if you really want to install other software you selected. The installer will query you after it installs each software group.
Finally, the install process will conclude.
BEFORE YOU DO ANYTHING ELSE, UPDATE TO SYSTEM 7.6.1.
**Shortcut for those who have already installed 7.6** (REVISED 4/25)
If you installed 7.6 earlier and want to update to 7.6.1, do this:
Open the Extensions Manager and select "M ac 7.6 Base." and restart. Alternatively, you can start with extensions off by holding down the Shift key until you receive the message that extensions are off.
If you downloaded the four-disk version, and if you read and followed these instructions, you have converted the image files to four floppies or to virtual floppy disks which are on your desktop.
If you downloaded DSMAK761.IMG and converted it using Disk Copy, follow the instructions which will automate the process of converting the disk images and running the 7.6.1 installer.
If you have created actual floppies, insert Disk 1 and click on the installer. Insert the remaining disks when instructed to do so.
If you created virtual floppies on your desktop, you need only open Disk 1 and click on the installer.
If you downloaded the Net Install version of the 7.6.1 updater, open the folder and click on Install. It requires two or three minutes for the update to occur. When it is finished, if you select "About This Computer" from the Apple Menu, you will see System 7.6.1 in the upper right-hand corner of the resulting window.
NOW, FOR THE HARD WORK
You will now find two system folders on your hard disk. Your old system folder is now named "Previous System Folder" (we'll call it the old system folder) and you'll find a "System Folder," your new system folder.
You must now move all of your third-party (non-Apple) files from the old folder to the new folder. Here's the best way to do this:
1. Open the new system folder and highlight the entire contents by pressing Command-A. Select "Label" from the menu at the top of your screen, and select a color. Red is nice. All of the items in the System Folder will now be colored red.
2. Open each folder in your new system folder and do the same thing. What you've done is to color-code all of the System 7.6.1 files so that you can identify them later, the next time you do a "clean" system install.
3. Open the old system folder. In the Views menu, select "By name." Position the window to the left of your screen, then open the new system folder, view by name, and position that window to the right of your screen. Size the windows so that they do not overlap.
You are now going to move all the items in the old system folder window which do not appear in the new system folder window to the new system folder window. Read that twice if you aren't sure what I mean.
What you will be moving are files created by applications or files that, somewhere along the line, you were instructed to place loose in the System Folder. Color each of these items, if you wish, to aid you in spotting them later. Green is a nice color.
NOTE: If, when moving an item, you are told that a newer item with the same name exists in the new system folder, do not move the item.
4. Following the instructions above regarding sizing and viewing windows, open the Extensions Folder in your old and new system folders. Again, move anything that is in the old Extensions Folder which is not in the new Extensions Folder to the new Extensions Folder.
See 7.5.X EXTENSIONS YOU NO LONGER NEED (above). Be sure to open the Printer Descriptions Folder and move any non-Apple printer descriptions files to the new Printer Descriptions Folder.
Again, if you are told that a newer item with the same name exists in the new system folder, do not move that item.
5. Now, continue this process for the Control Panels Folder, the Fonts Folder, the Launcher Items Folder, Shutdown Items Folder, Startup Items Folder and the Preferences Folder.
WHEN PERFORMING STEPS 3, 4 AND 5, TAKE YOUR TIME. If you fail to move a file and trash it later on, an application may not work, or you may lose vital information such as registration data, internet address information, and so on.
IF YOU MOVED "HP BACKGROUND" OUT OF THE EXTENSIONS FOLDER IN STEP 6 OF "HOW TO INSTALL SYSTEM 7.6, ABOVE, REPLACE IT NOW.
When you are satisfied that you have moved all the non-Apple items from the old system folder to the new folder, you may restart your Macintosh.
You now are operating with your new System 7.6.1.
While not absolutely necessary, this would be a good time to rebuild your desktop files. Do not use Apple's method (holding down Command-Option-Shift while starting the computer). If your desktop files are corrupt, the corruption will remain.
Instead, download TechTool from Library 8 in Mac OS (MACSYS). Read the instructions carefully, then use it to rebuild.
Even better, use Norton Utilities Disk Doctor to rebuilt. Choose Tools from the menu then select Rebuild.
ADDED 4/21/97
SUBSEQUENT "CLEAN" INSTALLS.
After installing 7.6 and updating to 7.6.1, and installing all the desired third-party devices, I suggest you back up your new System Folder on a second HD or on removable media (SyQuest, Iomega, DAT, and so on). Then, to perform a clean system reinstall, you need only to rename your existing System Folder "Previous System Folder," and drag a clean copy of the System Folder from backup. When you have satisfied yourself that everything is operating normally, you can trash the Previous System Folder.
IF SOMETHING WENT BUMP IN THE NIGHT
If the computer does not boot, or you encounter problems, refer to the Troubleshooting Chapter beginning on page 37 of the Installation Manual.
If you followed all of the instructions so far and did not skip anything, the most frequently encounter problem is an extension conflict, verified by starting with the Shift key held down. If the problem goes away, you have an extension conflict. The easiest way to identify and resolve the conflict is to use ConflictCatcher which you'll find in Library 4 of the Mac OS Forum. ConflictCatcher automates the process of isolating the offending extensions (or sometimes control panels).
If you have a conflict, there are two primary ways to resolve it:
1. The extension may not work with System 7.6.1. You will have to discard it or you will have to update it.
It isn't difficult to find an update, if it exists, but it helps to know how to look. There are many ways of searching.
MacFile finder (Go MACFF) is powerful, searches across all forums, but may be 2 weeks out of date.
I'd suggest you download the file MAUGLB.SIT, updated weekly, and always in LIB 1 of MacNew. This file (about a 3-minute download at 28.8 kBaud) contains a text-file listing of one line descriptions of every one of the 18,000 or so files in MAUG(R) fora arranged by forum and library. It may be searched with the find command of any word processor. Don't try to open it with SimpleText; it's too large for SimpleText. You need to use Word or Works or TexEdit or such.
This catalog is an invaluable reference, and lets you browse off-line for all the goodies you never would have known were here, and pays for itself many times over in time and connect charges.
2. There is a conflict caused by the order in which extensions load.
Here's an example that I found on my Quadra 950: I am using RAM Doubler, and have the CFM-68K Runtime Enabler installed. The Runtime Enabler loaded before RAM Doubler. RAM Doubler reported that there was not enough memory to load all of my extensions.
The solution was to open the Extensions Folder, select "By name" from the View menu, find RAM Doubler, and rename it by placing blank spaces before the R in its name. Two or three spaces positioned it AFTER EM Extension and BEFORE RAM Doubler, changing the loading order and resolving the conflict.
Curiously, I have seen other systems on an 040 Mac where Runtime loaded before RAM Doubler and RAM Doubler worked fine.
Rule of Thumb: To cause an extension or control panel to load earlier, place one or more blank spaces before the name. To cause it to load later, place a tilde (~) before the file name.
To verify the order in which extensions and control panels load, open the Extensions Manager control panel.
IMPORTANT RULE:
Other than adding a character before the first character in an extension or control-panel filename, never change the filename and never move the file to a location other than where it was originally installed. Applications and system software expect to find extensions and control panels in specific locations, and look for specific filenames. Moving or renaming them may cause system crashes, and may cause problems during subsequent system software installations.
ConflictCatcher (CC4_DEMO.SEA), which you will find in Library 4 of MACSYS, automates the process of identifying and resolving an extension conflict. If you use Conflict Catcher, it will enable you to change the order in which extensions load, simplifying the resolution of a conflict such as the one between CRFM-68K and RAM Doubler I experienced.
IF YOU STILL HAVE A PROBLEM
Read the Troubleshooting chapter of the Installation Manual (page 37). It contains many tips to overcome install problems.
In addition, I suggest you investigate these possibilities:
1. A corrupt Finder Preferences File. Trash the file (in the Preferences Folder within the System Folder) and restart.
2. A corrupt font. If you use a font manager, turn half the fonts off and restart. Then turn half the remaining fonts off, and restart, and so on. If you don't use a font manager, remove half the fonts from your Fonts Folder within the System Folder and park them somewhere else, then remove half of those remaining, and so on. Corrupt fonts can cause many problems.
An ever present help in trouble are the staff and members of the Mac Operating System Forum on CompuServe (GO MACSYS).
PREVENTIVE AND CORRECTIVE MAINTENANCE
There are some simple things you can do to ensure the health of your operating system and hard-disk software.
* Rebuilding the desktop file(s)
There are two invisible files on your HD desktop which keep track of icons, alias links, and other important things. If your icons turn into generic icons, or if a file cannot find its parent application, you need to rebuild the desktop. TechTool and Norton Utilities' Disk Doctor do a far better job than Apple's method (which cannot always rid the desktop files of corruption). Using Apple's method, in my opinion, is a waste of time. You should rebuild the desktop file once a week or once a month, depending on how much you use your Macintosh.
* Disk First Aid and Norton Utilities Disk Doctor
Depending on how much you use your computer, you should run DFA and NDD (if you have it) monthly or weekly. They will spot minor software damage and correct it before the damage causes more serious damage. When using DFA, select the "Repair" button, not the "Verify" button.
Norton Utilities is commercial software (about $100) and does far more than correct file damage. Everyone should have Norton Utilities.
NDD may find and repair damage which DFA cannot find or cannot repair. DFA may identify problems which NDD cannot identify. You need BOTH.
Because Problem A can mask Problem B, run DFA and NDD repeatedly until you get a clean scan. Once is not enough.
* Zapping PRAM
The Parameter RAM, a small chip in your computer, keeps track of some user selected preferences, the time of day and date, printer paths, monitor settings and other data. It can become corrupted. If your computer cannot find a printer or a serial port, or displays other strange behavior not corrected with a desktop rebuild or DFA or Norton Utilities, use TechTool to zap PRAM. Do not use Apple's method; it fails to flush the entire PRAM and is a waste of time. You will need to set some user preferences after you do this. If your Mac provides the option of turning on 32-bit addressing in the Memory Control Panel, you will need to turn it on after zapping.
For good information about zapping PRAM, and which user preferences are affected, download INFOINIT.SIT (InformInit 1.3) from Library 7 of MACSYS.
* Date & Time Alzheimers
If your Mac begins displaying the wrong date and time, the most probable cause is that the half-AA-size 3.6V lithium battery that powers your parameter ram (PRAM) is dying or is dead.
A replacement battery is available from Radio Shack, P/N #23-026, a specially carded battery marked as a Mac replacement. You may also use an Eveready 523-BR or Duracell PX-21.
Some recent desktop Macs use a larger 4.5V alkaline battery, Rayovac 840. In some early Macs, the lithium battery is soldered to the motherboard.
The battery is in a small rectangular black plastic box attached to the logic board. To remove the battery, remove the cover of the battery box by gently prying outward on the plastic fingers that retain the lid to the box and lift the lid off. Remove the battery and replace it with the new one, pop the cover back on and you're done.
Be very sure that you observe polarity or the battery can be ruined, and you can damage the motherboard.
If you are uncomfortable with all of this, you should take your Mac to an authorized service center. They will probably charge you less than $50 to replace the battery.
Charlie Downs 74521,626 [Discussion Leader Mac OS Forum]
