More info on Open Firmware

By Xavier Rissley. Original by Lionel - 03/08/2003 14:34:20 CEST - Category: Apple

Thanks François for these details about Open Firmware.

Open Firmware loads before any loading of drivers that are external and not in the motherboard.
My usual troubleshooting routine in case of these sort of issues (all mac G3 and +) :
reset nvram 3 times ( Alt+Command+P+R) at boot
Open Fimware start (Alt+Command+O+F) at boot
and typing in these three commands (and not only the two previously mentioned) :
- reset-nvram
- set-defaults
- reset-all
As usual the keyboard is in QWERTY in Open Firmware, and each line must be validated by the Enter key.
While we are at it, a little reminder: a very handy Open Firmware command when a stubborn CD refuses to start, or if one plugged in an old keyboard with no eject-key in a G4 "QuickSilver" or "Mirror Door" (that have no open-tray button) and when one wants to eject or insert a CD at start-up (bootable CD for example)
type in
"eject cd"
Do not forget to re-type "eject cd" to close the tray, this doesn't strain the mecanical parts as much as pushing it by hand.