Apple Configurator 2 notes

[saulinpa]

I was doing some testing and wanted to go back to "factory" so used the Apple Configurator 2. I found that the recovery partition needs to be there to be able to install MacOS. Otherwise you get an error installing saying can't get to the firmware partition. This was new for me so here are a few notes.

• With a MacBook the key sequence and timing to get to DFU mode was frustrating. Following along with a YouTube video helped a lot. I used https: //www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5xmA3lDz3g and let them count to ten as I am too impatient.
• With a mini simply unplugging and replugging doesn't work. You do need to keep the power cord disconnected for a while. Apple docs state at least 10 seconds. Again, patience.
• The first time with a mini it would enter DFU mode (front LED goes amber) but would not be recognized by the other Mac running the Configurator 2 program. I was using a TB3 monitor (LG UltraFine 5K) but when I switched to a monitor attached to the on board HDMI and restarted all was good. For what it's worth after the revive/restore the TB3 monitor worked for successive DFU access. Guessing it was updated firmware? Also verified a USB-C to DVI dongle worked.
• You can use a USB-C to USB-A "charge and sync" cable for a pre USB-C host. I was able to use it with a 2013 Mac Pro.
• Doing a restore with Configurator 2 erases the drive, sets up Macintosh HD and Data, and installs MacOS. That makes it a nice tool for prepping a Mac before swapping it out.
• Restore does not do a PRAM/NVRAM reset (I saw AHT results saved).

 

[Gnattu]

Only one USB-C,(the one far from HDMI on Mini) can be used to connect Apple Configurator in DFU, maybe that's the problem?

 

[mikeboss]

bonus: restoring with Apple Cconfigurator 2 is considerably faster than the classic procedure (fresh install from a USB installer). it of course helps, having downloaded the IPSW beforehand.

 

[ArPe]

Yes it’s faster to install a fresh system and takes patience getting the key sequence right. The cables have to be in the correct order too. Power charge in socket 2, transfer cable in socket 1 (top corner).

 

[saulinpa]

Only one USB-C,(the one far from HDMI on Mini) can be used to connect Apple Configurator in DFU, maybe that's the problem?

No, I followed the pictures so the USB-C cable was on the left side the whole time. I never did try it in the other port.

 

[snakes-]

My first MBA M1 was bricked no chance to get into DFU (or i had do something wrong?) but with the second one no problem. I used Mr. Macintosh instructions.
10 seconds counting 1001 to 1010 (all buttons) then only hold the power button 7 more seconds.
Erase mac then drop in the ipsw file i downloaded before. I hope on monday we can use the usb drive to make the clean install.

 

[Itconnects]

If i wanted to upgrade my mac pro 7,1 Ssd, would an early 2013 mbp be sufficient to configure the mac pro via usb cable with an adapter at the mbp end, or do i need another computer that comes shipped with usbc to perform that task

 

[saulinpa]

If i wanted to upgrade my mac pro 7,1 Ssd, would an early 2013 mbp be sufficient to configure the mac pro via usb cable with an adapter at the mbp end, or do i need another computer that comes shipped with usbc to perform that task

If running Big Sur on the MBP then a USB-C to USB-A "charge and sync" cable should work.

 

[Itconnects]

Ahh, it needs to run Big Sur. I’m not sure Big Sur is available for that model

 

[saulinpa]

Ahh, it needs to run Big Sur. I’m not sure Big Sur is available for that model

Not officially. Try https://andv.medium.com/how-to-install-big-sur-to-mac-mini-late-2012-9d674b563174 or similar.