TM backup disk: how to make sure it ejects

[Change Agent]

I have a USB SSD connected to a Mac Mini in my network (everything is hard-wired) that is set up to be a Time Machine disk for one of my computers (a M1 MBP).

Often after the MBP sleeps, I get a message that the disk was not properly ejected. Can one make sure that as soon as TM is finished with the backup, the disk gets ejected?

All Macs are on the latest OS.

Thanks.

 

[Bigwaff]

Often after the MBP sleeps, I get a message that the disk was not properly ejected.

Even though you see this message, does TM still execute backup over network without issue? Or do you have to manually mount the SMB share again?

 

[Change Agent]

Well, the first time it happens, it keeps working. But when it happens the 3rd or 4th or maybe 5th time (I am not sure at which point it is), I get the message. And nothing works after that. It will not back up anymore (automatically or manually). I just get an error message. I can make TM forget the disk and next ad it again. Still not working. So, all that is left is to erase it and choose it again.

 

[Bigwaff]

Suggest you give Mac mini a static IP and see if that helps.

 

[Change Agent]

All computers and printers and IP telephones and my TV in my network always have a static IP'.

 

[Bigwaff]

Well, the first time it happens, it keeps working. But when it happens the 3rd or 4th or maybe 5th time (I am not sure at which point it is), I get the message. And nothing works after that. It will not back up anymore (automatically or manually). I just get an error message. I can make TM forget the disk and next ad it again. Still not working. So, all that is left is to erase it and choose it again.

I assume the "error message" is the disk not properly ejected notification... Try setting your Mac mini to never sleep and see if that helps. Focusing on the Mac mini in attempt to narrow the issue to either the Mac mini or the MBP.

 

[Change Agent]

Yes you are assuming correctly. The MM is set to never sleep.

 

[Bigwaff]

@Change Agent Firewall enabled on both Mac mini and MPB client?

 

[Change Agent]

yes on both.

 

[n8mac]

I have a similar issue, but not when my studio sleeps, but after every shut down or restart. External SSD not ejected properly. Neither drive has a power switch. Both connected via thunderbolt.
15.4
I come from Mac Pro with internal storage so this is all new to me.

 

[tjktony]

I have a similar issue, but not when my studio sleeps, but after every shut down or restart. External SSD not ejected properly. Neither drive has a power switch. Both connected via thunderbolt.
15.4
I come from Mac Pro with internal storage so this is all new to me.

You'll need to eject both external drives before shutting down or restarting. Having/not having a power switch is irrelevant. It's just a matter of getting used to it, it doesn't take long, under 5 seconds to click once on the drive's icon on the desktop to highlight it, then press Command and e.

 

[n8mac]

ok thanks

 

[wonderings]

Could be an issue with the TimeMachine drive. I had an external Toshiba 4TB drive for Time Machine and would constantly need to be force ejected, it would never eject on its own. I replaced it with a Western Digital and it runs flawlessly. Nothing has changed on the computer but one works well the other seems to have some issues.