You are correct about the "Open Firmware Password" but unless you have installed and configured the application, it is not on. It is off by default on all installations.
The OFP prevents anyone from starting up the machine from any disk that you have not set in the Startup Disk preference pane.
It blocks the use of the "C", "T","N", "S" & "D" keys at startup and prevents the PRAM from being zapped by using the Command-Option-P-R key combination.
It also requires a password to use the Startup Manager, Shift key during startup.
Unless you are in a high risk area where you leave you machine unattended for periods of time and where people are likely to be messing with your computer, this is all overkill.
If this is something that you have done, then undo it and boot into Target Mode. Step by step instructions for removal of the OFP can be found here http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=106482
As a work around for the problem, and to enable you to move data from your G4 to the G3, boot the G3 into Target mode while connected to the G4.
It would then mount on the desktop of the G4 and allow you to operate it as an external HD. Just put the data where you want it to go and all should be well.
Just as an aside, 10.4.9 might be a little too much for that G3. I find that 10.3.9 is a more comfortable OS for the G3. JMO
Let us know how you get on
P
Good Evening All,
Here's my system info:
OSX 10.4.9
Machine Name:PowerBook G4
Machine Model:PowerBook3,4
CPU Type:PowerPC G4 (2.1)
Number Of CPUs: 1
CPU Speed:800 MHz
L2 Cache (per CPU):256 KB
L3 Cache (per CPU):1 MB
Memory: 512 MB
Bus Speed:133 MHz
Boot ROM Version:4.3.7f3
I've read that having the "Open Firmware Password" option enabled will prevent opening up in Target disk mode. Either I'm really tired or that's just over my head. I've replaced the CD drive with a combo drive on an ibook G3 and have installed Tiger 10.4, so I'd like to transfer as much as I can to the G3 ibook. Any ideas? Thanks very much!!

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