Q: Older OS on Mini Server?
Can we drop back and run the desktop (i.e. not the OS X server version) of Snow Leopard on a new Mac Mini server?
We need the two hard drives but really have no need for the server OS and have licenses for Snow Leopard.
Posted on Feb 28, 2012 8:45 AM
Lion Server has an additional app and support files "on top" of Lion client. You can remove it if you just want to run Lion client; see here: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4827
I have a 2011 mini server 5,3 (quad-core i7 2.0) purchased at the end of last year. It came with Lion Server on it. I installed Snow Leopard Server on the 2d HD following some directions posted here and the internet; I was double-checking for a friend whether SL Server would work. I suspect I could have done regular Snow Leopard client as well.
You have to some somersaults because the retail SL discs typically don't have the drivers for the i5 and i7 chips; they appear later but can be found in the Combo update. And it may be that you can't boot the mini from the SL install disc. I just put the mini in firewire target disc mode hooked up to my MBP, which came with snow leopard. After installing, I immediately ran the Combo update. As always, your mileage may vary.
Posted on Feb 28, 2012 2:36 PM