Server for PowerMac G5
Server for PowerMac G5
You're facing an issue where your PowerMac G5 can't boot from the USB drive because it isn't recognized as a bootable device. Try pressing the Alt key while starting the Mac to access boot options, or ensure the USB is properly seated and try connecting it again. If the problem persists, check the USB's power delivery and compatibility with your system.
The G5 requires significant energy and doesn't deliver much strength for its intended purpose.
You could install the software on a hard disk and transfer it to the other drive, as the Powermac G5 supports SATA or the older SATA model your dad used. You might also consider using another optical drive, though I don’t know its compatibility with the motherboard. Booting from a FireWire device is possible, but you likely don’t have one.
Which specific distribution are you referring to? The PowerPC version requires it. The standard one won’t work. You usually need to boot from USB using OpenFirmware (press Ctrl+Alt+O). Your G5 won’t boot from USB and needs a CD to start. If possible, I can switch to another system—it’s very power-hungry, has minimal support, and is quite slow.
Server not functioning properly; use PowerPC version. See the link for details.