MacFixIt Answers

MacFixIt Answers is a feature in which we answer e-mailed questions from our readers. This week we have questions on an "In Use" error when trying to install the Classic environment in OS X, the CNET site not working properly in Safari, and a random password request when waking from sleep. We continually answer e-mail questions, and though we present a few answers here, we certainly welcome alternative approaches and views from readers and encourage you to post your suggestions in the comments.

Question: 'In Use' Error when installing Classic in Leopard
MacFixIt reader "jje1" asks:

Trying to install Classic OS 9 on G4 with 10.58 Leopard. Installed the Classic from OS 9 disc successfully, and it installed all Classic items in a new System Folder as required. When I try to open Classic OS 9, I get this error: The Item "Classic" cannot be opened because it is in use by OS X. This same error occurs with any item in folder or any when any classic application disc is inserted in CD drive. How can I fix this?

Answer:
The "Classic" environment was only supported on OS X 10.4 and prior versions, so you will not be able to run it on a system that is running OS X 10.5. If you want to run OS 9 you will need to use a program called "SheepShaver." Alternatively, you can install OS X 10.4 to use Classic mode.

Question: CNET Site malfunction on Safari
MacFixIt reader "Pete" asks:

Nothing gets through to your site from my computer on Safari. Automation protection text (correctly entered) is rejected and simple e-mail doesn't transmit. Seems OK on Firefox.

Answer:
This is usually because of a cookie/cache problem with Safari. Folks who've had this problem usually can get it working again by clearing Safari's cache, deleting CNET-related cookies, and then relaunching the browser.

Question: Random password request when waking from sleep
MacFixIt reader "Jasper" asks:

My system prefs are set so that my mac isn't suppose to ask for the password until after 4 hours. My macbook randomly requests login password after resuming from sleep even if it HAS NOT been 4 hours. The "go to sleep after X minutes of inactivity" is off(if that matters). Also, when resuming from sleep, my mac will show the login screen over my desktop/windows/applications, is this normal? Most of the time, after its been 4 hours, my mac just shows the login window over a black screen.

Answer:
This feature's setting is stored in two preference files, which are the following:

/username/Library/Preferences/com.apple.screensaver.plist
/username/Library/Preferences/ByHost/com.apple.screensaver.NUMBERSTRING.plist

The first holds the settings for the password request and the time for this to activate, and the second holds settings for the screensaver that's being used. Try removing the first, and then the second, if the problem still persists, but keep in mind you will have to set up your screensaver again.

It being a random occurrence makes this more of a shot in the dark, but let's hope it works.

The log-in screen should not be shown over your desktop and other applications. The system should instead show it over the default wallpaper (the purple cosmos image). Try toggling the Fast User Switching feature on and off to see if this helps prevent the log-in window from displaying improperly. In addition, try removing the following preference files, which might help the log-in window display correctly:

Macintosh HD/Library/Preferences/com.apple.loginwindow.plist
Macintosh HD/Library/Preferences/loginwindow.plist

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