Move from SSD+HDD to Fusion Drive - How?

[bloodypom]

Hi

I currently have a 2011 iMac with the following setup:

• OS installed on external thunderbolt 128GB SSD
• User folder on original internal 500GB HDD
• Time Machine backup of system on external 1TB HDD

I plan to purchase a new iMac with 1TB Fusion Drive. In doing so, I'd like to restore from my Time Machine backup (so that I've got all my stuff) but I won't want the user folder on a separate drive any more. The question is, how can I restore from Time Machine with everything put onto the Fusion Drive? Is it possible?

Thanks!

 

[Fishrrman]

What I would try:

1. Unpack NEW Mac.

2. Connect the OLD Mac to the new Mac via thunderbolt.

3. Boot the OLD Mac into "target disk mode".

4. Now boot the NEW Mac for the first time.

5. As the initial setup progresses, setup assistant will ask if you wish to migrate data. Yes, you do, but UNCHECK the option to migrate "applications" (you'll do that later). Just migrate user folders, settings, and data.

6. When this is done, I would power down and disconnect the old Mac. Now connect the SSD and reboot the NEW Mac.

7. You should boot up to your existing (i.e., just-migrated) user account.

8. Launch "Migration Assistant" and select your SSD. Choose to migrate ONLY applications.

9. Let MA do its thing.

10. When done, you ought to be at least "close to" where you want to be.

11. You may have to do some "finishing up" by hand....