Macintosh: Using Command-Option-Shift-Delete To Start Up From CD

This article describes the proper key sequence to startup from a CD-ROM disc, which is incorrectly described in some Mac OS 8.5 Troubleshooting Handbooks.
On page 25 of the Mac OS 8.5 Troubleshooting Handbook that ships with the iMac and Power Macintosh G3 (Blue and White), a procedure is listed for starting up the computer from a CD by holding down the Command, Option, Shift, and Delete keys.

This procedure is intended for certain older Macintosh computers, and does not apply to the iMac and Power Macintosh G3 (Blue and White). For these, and later, Macintosh computers, the recommended method of starting up from the CD is to hold down the C key during startup.

Older Macintosh computers that did not support the C key as a method of starting up from the CD can use the Command-Option-Shift-Delete key sequence.

Published Date: Feb 20, 2012