Restoring the Apple OS

Create the USB key as before but choose from the following images instead of install-hdd.img.gz or install-usb.img.gz:


 * Apple OS v2.3.1: http://chewitt.openelec.tv/usb/factoryrestore2.img.gz MD5 (205MB)


 * Apple OS v3.0.2: http://chewitt.openelec.tv/usb/factoryrestore3.img.gz MD5 (250MB)

Both images contain the restore files so this can be performed offline - there is no need for an Ethernet network connection. If you are performing a factory restore to permanently return to the Apple OS then pick the v3.0.2 software, it will save you another download.

Boot the AppleTV from the USB key and it will repartition the internal hard drive and copy files in preparation for Apple's factory restore boot process. Once complete you can remove the USB key and power cycle the AppleTV. It will boot into Apple's software to perform the actual restore.

In some cases the Apple restore process fails .. the so-called "progress bar stuck at 5%" problem. Eventually the box will power cycle and repeat but will get stuck again (and again). The cause of this problem is not known but is most likely a bug in Apple's restore process. There are numerous reports of the same issue in the Apple support forums so we are confident it is not our bit that has the problem. If this happens please try using the alternative factory restore image - in some cases where one image fails the other works.