how to use disk utility in mac osX for repairing a disk?

This document explains how to use Disk Utility in Mac OS X to repair a disk. Disk Utility included in OS X and can be used to repair the file system permissions and minor errors in the directory structure of a disk. It is located in the Utilities folder within the Applications folder on your hard drive. Disk Utility can also be run from an installation disc of Mac OS X.

1. Disk Repair
2. Repair Disk Permissions
3. S.M.A.R.T. state

Disk Repair

Disk Utility can not repair the directory structure of the active boot disk, but in Mac OS X 10.4 or later that can check the active boot disk. To repair an OS X system disk with Disk Utility, start the computer with an Apple Software Restore disc (included with new Macs) or Mac OS X installation disk (must be the same version ). Insert the disc, restart the computer, hold down the C key when you hear the startup sound. You can release the button when the gray apple.

It is normal that your computer takes longer to boot from a CD or DVD. The disc will automatically start OS X installer, but it is not necessary to reinstall OS X. If you are prompted to select a language and do not see the menu bar at the top of the screen, click the right arrow button to move to the next screen. The method of opening the disk utility varies depending on the version of OS X installation disk.

Mac OS X 10.2.x through 10.3.x:
Select Open Disk Utility from the install menu at the top of the screen.

Mac OS X 10.4.x through 10.6.x:

Select Disk Utility from the Tools menu at the top of the screen.

The Disk Utility window should look like the image below. Select the name of the hard drive (eg Macintosh HD) on the left side of the window and click the First Aid tab if not already selected. To check the disk directory and attempt to repair any problems found, click the Repair Disk button. If you encounter a problem, they list. Otherwise, say that "The volume Macintosh HD appears to be OK."

Note: If you are not disks, may be an indication of a more serious problem. Call the Help Desk DoIt a 264-HELP (608-264-4357).

Note: If you encounter any problems, you must click Repair Disk to scan again. If the sameproblem(s) during the second scan, it means that Disk Utility can not repair the disk and a more advanced utility is required. Call DoIt Support Office 264-HELP.