Stuck In A Groove Mac OS

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An operating system is the spark of a computer, there are situations where you yearn for an alternative OS. Microsoft Windows is great and the majority of users prefer using it. Every operating system has their features and user experience. This is our take on alternative PC operating systems; download and boot from a USB drive.

Jul 03, 2019 iPad Display Shows black screen and gets stuck when connecting a smart keyboard. This problem is relatively common when attaching third-party keyboards (even Apple's smart keyboard) following an iOS / iPadOS update. IPad Black Screen with Smart Keyboard after iPadOS update. If you use any other type of case or covering, remove these first. Two situations your Mac/MacBook gets stuck on login screen. Before you go further, you should know there are two kinds of Mac login stuck situations. It depends on if you have enabled FileVault to encrypt your startup drive. 1 Mac won't load past login screen after entering password. It happens to users who encrypt the system drive.

This article is for people with moderate to higher-end computers that is helpful to easily run below mentioned alternative operating systems.

Look, I am a die-hard fan of Microsoft's Windows 10, yet I moved to different Operating systems over time. Nonetheless, it was fun. You should try these operating systems on your computer. You may be aware of some mentioned OS; Let's begin the showdown of your next possible alternative operating system, which you can truly enjoy.

Deepin / Elementary OS

get deepin, elementryOS

Deepin is a reinterpretation of creativity, originality and now with a unified design. And the Elementry OS's interface is simple. Both OS are only a revival of the system looks, but also a brand-new ascent to the operating experience!

Chrome OS

This is a completely different PC operating system, Chrome OS is worth a shot, we already how you can install Chrome OS on your computer. So If you are a person who does everything online, Chrome OS will catch your requirements and won't left you with anything. If you just work online and you care less about other elements of an operating system you may want to try out the Chromium operating system.

By using Chrome OS, you will always get the latest version of Google Chrome as well by default. Besides, there are Besides there are thousands of apps and extensions in the Google Chrome store. So basically you can do almost everything with those apps. If you do spend a lot of time on the Internet, Chrome/Chromium Os will give you a new home. Not all data cards may not support by Chrome OS; however, any Lan network will work flawlessly.

Chromium by Arnoldthebat (Chrome OS)

Get it and burn it to a USB drive and boot from it.

Chrome OS is officially available only on Chromebooks, laptops which are sold pre-installed with Chrome OS. If you need a clean and familiar interface and your daily routine on the computer is around Chrome browser this can be a good operating system. Talking about installing, all you need to download the OS image file (IMG) and burn it on a USB device using a USB utility tool such as 'Win32 Image writer' to boot it on your computer.

Although its a great OS for internet users but it does require more resources of your machine and thus this should not be considered to install on a decade old computer.

Chrome OS is undoubtedly the best operating system for people who live on the Chrome browser. It was built around the Chrome browser in the first place, and now it does more than, i.e., running Android apps but that's limited to real Chromebooks. If you'd like to taste the Chrome OS on your typical computer, there are multiple ways to do so.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is a popular operating system, a completely different operating system from Windows and mac. One can get used to it after spending some time tinkering daily. The system image size is around 2GB for an x64 machine, and you just need to download the ISO and using tools you can quickly make a bootable USB drive or Live CD. Once you are done making the bootable drive of Ubuntu, restart your computer. When your PC is booting press F12/F9/Del to choose the boot device. However, on your computer, there might need to press another key to load the boot menu and select the external media to boot.

That's right! Nothing can beat Ubuntu, and it's fast and organized, that's true. Ubuntu comes pre-loaded with several apps like GIMP, VLC, Firefox, etc. The latest version of Ubuntu is 20.04 which requires at least 2GB's of RAM. However, you can download older Ubuntu version(external) if your computer has lower RAM. We've also reviewed 5 other best Ubuntu-based Linux distros you can install, as it's Linux based and is one of the most popular operating systems, but there are other alternatives also as well. You need basic knowledge of installing an operating system on your computer. Ubuntu is not a very addictive OS for average users coming from Windows.
A 13-year-old kid finds easier to learn operating Windows compared to Ubuntu.

Ubuntu alternatives.
There are many operating systems based on Ubuntu. Like budgie-remix(external)which comes with modified layout and features. They do not contain full version and features as seen on Ubuntu. Lubuntu, which is the lightweight by cutting down extra features, for example.

Android Operating Systems

Remix os is a furnished Android operating system based on Android x86 project. And has almost all significant design similarities to Windows. both Remix OS and Phoenix OS are a free operating system that is based on the Android operating system.

Mac OSX

Well, you can not legally install the Mac OSX on your laptop or computer, Apple does not want you to install MacOS on your typical Computers. Wait, TonyMacx86 (external link) is a great place to start looking up for instruction to install MAC os on your computer.

React OS

React OS is an open source operating system and supports Windows applications, even looks like windows. Surprisingly this only needs 500MB of space and 100MB of RAM, (Note: we have also added ReactOS to OS list for OLD PC's Article)

You can go we use ReactOS if you want an alternative operating system or let your computer use minimum hardware resources. For example, if you have 4 GB RAM and running on Windows 10 it will occupy almost 50% of it, but the best lightweight operating system only requires hundred MB of ram.

Kali Linux

Ok, you are not a hacker type hacker, but you should try this powerful 'Kali' thing. Most of the people simply use it to ‘try hacking a neighbor's wifi'. Apart from it, you can install it on your hard disk or can temporarily boot from USB.

There is also a lightweight variant of Kali Linux on the download page. Download the Kali standard/lite variant from the following link.

Cub Linux

Discontinued GitHub project Cub Linux.

CubLinux is based on Linux and can be installed on a USB with persistence storage so that changes will be saved. Read more about Chromium OS for computers. I'm currently using it as a second operating system on my notebook, and like real Chromebooks, all you need is an internet connection through Wifi or LAN, and you're good to go. However, this project is discontinued, but you can still download and use it from this link. Cub Linux is without hesitation a recommended operating system from Quickfever even when the project is discontinued. You can still use their GitHub page to download ISO file.

Linux based operating system

Pop!_OS

This seems little interesting to me, it doesn't have the ball and whistle but does the work. The interface is minimalist but you won't miss anything and overall it looks really beautiful. When you press the Windows key it arranges all opened windows in grid interface which is something similar to the Windows 10's task view.

Lubuntu

It's the official project and is a lightweight OS for those seeking a lighter Ubuntu alternative. It is an Ubuntu derivative that uses fewer resources and is energy efficient. All those keynote features make it a lightweight operating system, but please be aware, the lightweight term isn't appropriate here. But it is more light if we compare it to the official Ubuntu and energy and resources demand. For sure, there are many other ultra lightweight and fast Linux distributions, like DSL, but those are not Ubuntu derivatives or based on it. It used LXDE desktop environment. Requirement: around two gigs of RAM.

Pixel OS

Requirement: i386 architecture, 512 MB RAM, Only 32-bit. | Instructions for installation.

In past to run Pixel OS, A Raspberry Pi is required which itself is a cheap machine. Last year (Last 2016) Pixel OS is released for x86 devices. All you have to download the image file, make a Bootable USB and boot straight into Pixel OS.

Papyros OS

Material design based Linux distribution alpha version (no installer).

Stuck In A Groove Mac OS

Material Design Operating System and was previously listed at #4 on this list. The Papyros looks very identical to Chrome OS, so you can try any unofficial Chrome operating system. This Operating system is hard to install, and you need to go to their official website and carefully follow instructions — there is no ISO or any installer available at this point of the time. You'll need Archlinux to test this. I suggest you skip to the next operating System. (*Arch Linux is a tiny Linux OS that is totally command based when you boot it for the first time allowing space to mold it as you like).

Elementary OS

The elementary operating system is a fast and open replacement if you are using Windows or Mac. Besides, it is not very light regarding size but has more flexibility. It is open source and has a dedicated community. Elementary OS is available for both 32-bit and 64-bit version. For example, if you are downloading the 64-bit version it is about 1.1GB. The download page opens with an option to pay before you download, but just you can enter a value as ‘0' to download the operating system without pay anything. (but if you like the efforts and the os, support them by paying some bucks.)

Zorin OS

Zorin OS is one of the few Linux distros that I actually liked, It reminds and maybe the combination of the appearance of Windows 10 and Windows 7, but even better. You might have a rough time while installing graphics drivers as per your computer hardware, but there are tutorials about them.

Despite, you'll get such a nice user interface, where most of the settings and functions are one or two clicks away. Such as the start menu contains the shortcut to Settings, software and power options. Sound like Windows 7, hell yeah. Overall the interface is decent and more of modern design. It comes with some apps like Chromium browser, Wine to play Windows apps, office, utilities and some games built-in.

Older windows

I know Microsoft has been forcing older Windows users to it is latest, so-called perfect Windows 10 edition. Guess what, some of you may have even running on it already. It occupies and uses more resources than ever before, and lot's of modern UI app comes with With Windows 10. For example, the 3D builder is useless, at least for me at this point. Moreover, those Skype, OneDrive, peoples, Phone companion, XBox, and Groove are forced in Windows 10. okay, Groove Music is fresh, not others. Also, Windows 10 forces users to automatic updates. It is recommended that you downgrade your Windows an older version such as 'XP' which was and is famous till the date. No fuss when using Windows XP.

Final Words.

Did you decide an alternative operating system to try asap on your computer? That is good, don't forget to make a backup of your important files, especially files that are located inside the local Disc C:/. One good thing is these computer operating systems are totally free (except Windows7), mean you do not have to pay for activation or subscription. However, you can donate if you like to support the developers.

Article Contents

If you have ever used a Windows Operating System (especially windows 98, XP, and 2000 series OS) then you surely know what a 'Blue screen of Death' or a 'Blue screen of Doom' is! Every time you encounter this screen, you know there is something seriously wrong with either the hardware or the software. Similarly, we have a 'Gray Screen of Death' for the Mac OS X which I didn't know until I encountered it.

Mac OS X Gray Screen of Death

I recently upgraded my Mac Mini from 10.9.3 Mavericks to 10.9.4. After the upgrade, the system seemed to be quite sluggish and almost hanged at times!!. The next day after the upgrade I was working with Eclipse IDE and Safari window was open, the system hanged!, I waited for some time (though maybe some Build activity was consuming up the resources) but nothing seemed to be happening, so I did a Forced Restart by holding down the Start button.

After restarting my Mac, I could see a Gray Screen with the Apple logo as usual, but there was also a Gray Color Spinner and a Progress Bar which we normally see when system restarts after upgrades. The Spinner was stuck in a loop for a long time.

Mac OS X Grey Color Screen with Spinner and Progress Bar

Just a few minutes later (25% completion of the progress bar) the Monitor went black and the Mac turned off. I did a restart again, but it was all the same, Gray Spinner and the Progress-Bar reaching unto 25% and the screen goes blank. Now I knew that I was in big trouble. First thing I realized that I didn't do my weekly backup! If it turns out to be an OS crash or HDD failure I would lose all my data.

Recovery & Troubleshooting Mac Mini/Mac Book

I did some google search and found out that many people were facing this issue. Everything pointed out that I could be that the Hard-disk is dying.

It took me 2 days to restore my Mac Mini and to get all my data back. I am putting down all my experience here so that someone may find it useful.

Apple Startup Key Combinations (Intel-based Macs)

Note : Before we talk about this a really important note if you have a wireless Apple keyboard ( or maybe any other brand wireless keyboard) boot key combinations won't work (though it may work for newer versions, mine is 2012 make). You have to get a wired keyboard preferably apple one ( i borrowed a Microsoft USB keyboard but it too did work, then I got a Logitech keyboard and it did work)

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

This may sound weird, but it does works sometimes. Turn off your PC and remove all connections. USB devices, HDMI cables, Mouse & Keyboard, etc, and the power cords. Reconnect your system after 10-20 mins with minimum peripherals ( keyboard and mouse ) and see if things get back to normal.

Force Shut down

Press and hold the Power Button on your Mac Mini ( or equivalent on your Mac Book, Mac Book Air) for 5-10 secs. Note that if you do a Force Shutdown when your system is running you may lose all your unsaved data, but not in our case as the OS is not getting loaded on the first-hand :P

Resetting PMU :

Power Management Unit (PMU) is a chip responsible for Mac's power management i.e. controlling HDD spin down, sleep and wake up and devices that are attached to the computer. Resetting PSU can resolve hardware failures related to power management. Resetting PMU also resets PRAM settings and it should be tried only after none of the below works,

How to do a PMU reset :

1. Unplug all cables, USB, HDMI and even the power button. 2. Wait for some time (10 secs or more) 3. Plugin the power cord simultaneously press and hold the power button. 4. Release the power button and press it again to start up for mac Mini.

Safe Mode Booting

You must always try doing a Safe Mode Boot as the first troubleshooting step, for Mac try doing a safe mode boot by holding down Shift Key during boot time (when you hear the chime sound) until you see an Apple Logo and a spinner and a progress bar. I was not able to hear the chime. So had to reset the NVRAM/PRAM.

NVRAM is a memory area that stores certain data related to a system that is persistent even after shutdown. Information that NVRAM/PRAM stores are, Screen resolution that you may have set, the Speaker Volume, Startup disk to be selected and Kernel panic information.

Resetting NVRAM/PRAM settings :

I followed these steps and I could head the chime sound. But it didn't resolve the issue, nor I was able to start my Mac in Safe Mode.

Apple Hardware Test

Press D Button when you hear the Chime on boot to start Apple Hardware Test (AHT). Any hardware abnormalities can be detected ( read more http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1509). I got an AHT screen where you have to select your language and then perform hardware tests, I start the test and I waited around 3-4 hours until I realized that I was stuck and nothing was happening. If you're lucky you may get to know what the issue is performing this test.

Boot form CD/DVD or USB Drive

If you have a CD or DVD ROM and a Mac OS X setup disc ( in my case, as I have a MAC Mini I do not have a CD ROM ) you can hold C during startup to boot from CD/DVD. Make sure that you insert the Disc before you perform CD startup.

Similarly if you have a bootable USB drive with Mac OS X setup you can boot the system by holding down C button during boot.

Booting in Single-User Verbose mode

Start your Mac and press Command + V when you hear the chime. Now when the system boots you will not see the Gray screen, instead you will see a black screen with Text. This is a really helpful boot option and it really helped me to know what was the exact problem. The best part is you get access to the command line, so backup is possible.

Here are the logs :

disk0s2: I/O error! : Macintosh HD could not be Verified!! was surely related to hardware i.e Hard Disk to be more specific.

This error is an indicator that the HardDisk is dying.

Further Resolutions Steps :

How to recovery Data from dying Macintosh HDD using USB Drive

fsck is a Linux/Unix command used to check and repair Linux/Unix file systems. Mac OS X includes fsck utility as a command-line utility which can be used by entering single-user mode using (Command + S at startup)

fsck is used at reboot to check to do a filesystem check. As soon as your system is booted in Verbose mode in Single user mode you would see the following.

Output :

Once you get the # command-line prompt :

Type the following command :

-y: Assume a yes response to all questions asked by fsck this should be used with great caution as this is a free license to continue after essentially unlimited trouble has been encountered.

Stuck In A Groove Mac Os Download

Output :

If everything is fine you will get This volume Macintosh HD appears to be OK. , else you will get disk0s2: I/O error. The volume Macintosh HD could not be verified completely.

Stuck In A Groove Mac Os 7

You can mount an internal file system (USB disk) using /sbin/mount/.

-uw: It is used to change the status for the already mounted file system. You can change a read-only file system to read-write and vice versa.

Now plug in your USB stick. As soon as you insert your USB disk you get a message on the prompt that it has been installed.

:/ root# USBMSC Identifier (non-unique) : 2828472829C8192929 0x2493 0x304 0x2939

Now let's check all disks that are mounted.

To list down all the attached disks.

all disk0 devices are mostly the internal disks with file system HFS, so disk1s1 must be the external disk i.e our USB disk, let's check the file type.

Output : msdos

so we now confirm that it is a USB disk named as disk1s1,

Now we need to make a mount point, a dir where we will mount our USB drive.

Now let's mount the USB to my mount point,

Now that our USB stick is mounted, let verify that it has been mounted correctly by running the ls command.

Output :

Now that you have the access to the external Drive/HHD/USB you can simply copy all your important files from the Mac and once you are done you can go for a fresh installation.

Once you have copied all your files you can unmount the USB drive using the command,

Mac OS X Internet Recovery mode

Press Command + R button during startup and you will be taken to Recovery Mode, wait until you see a gray screen with the apple logo. (Note: this option is available for Macs that were shipped with Mac OS X Lion or later. Some Mac's may require EFI BootROM update for this command/feature)

I got a screen where i was asked to select my Wifi Connection and set the password. Once I did so, I was taken to internet recovery mode, a black-and-white globe appears spinning and reads,

Starting Internet Recovery. This may take a while. Depending upon your internet connection speed it will download Utility data.

If everything goes well you will be able to see Mac OS X bar and utility window. Options like

Run Disk Utility to check if the disk is in good health. As I had recovered my data I did a format of my disk and did a fresh install of Mac OS X Lion. The setup will be downloaded from the internet after checking that you have a genuine account.

Stuck In A Groove Mac Os X

Finally my system was back running Mac OS X Lion (10.8). I was able to restore all my purchases and other apps via App Store and even did upgrade to Mac OS X 10.10 Yosemite and things seem to be working fine.

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