Some computers that are compatible with Mac OS X Server 10.4 can't start up (boot) from the Server Installation CD or DVD. When you try it, the computer may display a blank, gray screen or kernel panic. For this reason, Apple allows you to use a metapackage (.mpkg) file from the Installation disc to install Mac OS X Server over a running Mac OS X 10.4 (client) installation.
Note: If you are running Mac OS X 10.4.10 you cannot use the metapackage file from the Installation disc. Instead, follow the instructions in article 305537.
Note: You must not use this capability to install software that is older than what shipped with your computer (learn more). This document is only intended for Mac OS X Server 10.4 or later on PowerPC-based computers (more).
To install Mac OS X Server 10.4 from the .mpkg file, follow these steps:
- Be sure that all software on the target computer is up to date.
Note: If you decide to start with a fresh system by doing an erase install (this is not required), be sure to complete the Mac OS X Setup Assistant while the computer is connected to your network. - Be sure that your computer is connected to your network.
- Make sure Windows Sharing is disabled in Sharing preferences.
- Restart the computer.
- Insert the DVD or the Disc 2 CD from the retail version of Mac OS X Server 10.4.
- Open the MacOSXServerInstall.mpkg Installer, which is located in the "Other Installers" folder on the DVD and at the root level of the Disc 2 CD.
- Follow the onscreen steps.
- When finished, restart the computer.
- The Server Assistant appears. Use it to complete the setup, making sure that you configure the computer as a standalone server.
- Use Software Update to install all available updates.
- Restart the computer.
- Go back to Software Update and install all the remaining updates, restarting your computer as necessary.
- If desired, you can now use Server Admin to set up the server as an Open Directory Master.
Note: This procedure also appears on page 106 of the Getting Started manual, available here.