iMac Core Duo (Early 2006): Problems with installing Intel Mac OS X on FireWire drives; solution

Problems with installing Intel Mac OS X on FireWire drives As we previously noted, there is no universal binary version of Mac OS X. We've also noted that Apple has indicated that FireWire booting is a capability of Intel-based Macs.

We've now received reports indicating that the Mac OS X DVD that ships with the Intel-based iMac (Early 2006) exhibits issues installing on some FireWire drives -- an obvious requisite for FireWire booting capabilities.

Users have reported that they are presented with a message indicating that Mac OS X cannot be installed on the volume -- no matter which disk formatting method (Mac OS Extended, etc.) they use to erase the drive.

We're not sure if this problem is relegated to FireWire drives with specific chipsets, or outdated firmware (make sure to check your manufacturers' Web sites for potential new releases) based on the limited reports.

UPDATE: Several readers have now noted that you need to repartition the entire device into the gpt partition scheme (GUID partition scheme in Disk utility) in order to install Mac OS X for Intel on a separate volume. This can be accomplished using the 'options' button under the partition tab when the FireWire device is attached.

Meanwhile, users are noting success with disk cloning utilities in creating bootable backups (after the target volume has been reformatted with the proper partition scheme).

MacFixIt reader Terry writs:

"I did a Carbon Copy Clone from my Intel iMac over to an external FireWire drive and booted from it with no problem."

If you are having a similar problem, or any other notes regarding the iMac Early 2006, please let us know.

Resources