Can I install OS X from USB drive?

[ajf]

I am thinking of buying a second hand EMac to try out a Mac as not used one before.
It was suggested here that it would be worth installing OS X 10.4 on it but the ones I have seen available only have a built in CD drive.
I was thinking of buying an external DVD drive to use - is this possible for installing an OS on a Mac?

Also, if it comes with 10.3 installed, is this able to be patched to .9 via updates or is it a new install?

Andrew

 

[ajf]

Hmm, bit of research suggests I would actually need a firewire drive if using external.
Have found out I could change the internal drive to a DVD though - anyone here done this?

Will post in hardware forum as going off topic now.

Andrew

 

[ajf]

Thank you both for the replies. I will have a look at the link posted and 'Gommsta' I may need to take you up on your offer for more instructions if/when I try it

Still deciding what level of used Mac to buy. Really basic and cheap G3 emac or spend a bit more and get something like an emac with a 800 or 1.2Ghz G4?
It's only for playing around with at this stage to see what a Mac can do.

Andrew