tanka626

Q: USB apple USB superDrive is not working

Absolutely new super drive is not working

Apple USB superdrive

Posted on Dec 22, 2015 1:01 PM

Close

Q: USB apple USB superDrive is not working

  • All replies
  • Helpful answers

  • by K Shaffer,

    K Shaffer K Shaffer Dec 22, 2015 1:24 PM in response to tanka626
    Level 6 (14,340 points)
    Desktops
    Dec 22, 2015 1:24 PM in response to tanka626

    The newest version of Apple USB SuperDrive is not directly compatible with

    older model computers that shipped with a built-in optical drive. They were

    designed to work with the later computers that do not have an optical drive.

     

    If the unit does not work for you, and you bought it from an Apple Store, it

    should be no problem to return it within policy; if bought from authorized

    independent Apple reseller, their store policy limits would apply.

     

    {There had been an unauthorized method of altering the firmware or using

    a command line (not sure which) to attempt to make the new USB super-

    drive work with older computing products. Not sure what that really does.}

     

    • iFixit repair guide offers a few tips on this optical drive model:

    https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/131218/usb+disc+drive+problems

    Of note is the last Comment in the page, since modifying it doesn't work

    anymore after 10.10.3, according to the last entry.

     

    Good aftermarket brands of external USB optical drives usually work with

    older Macs (and newer ones) that need the equivalent of a superdrive.

    Since I see your post appears in Older Hardware discussions area, it may

    be helpful if you state details of the computer model & its running OS X.

     

    Good luck & happy computing!

  • by sberman,Apple recommended

    sberman sberman Dec 23, 2015 9:42 PM in response to tanka626
    Level 8 (39,637 points)
    Dec 23, 2015 9:42 PM in response to tanka626

    As K Shaffer states above, your MacBook may be too old to use the SuperDrive.

    Mac computers that can use an Apple USB SuperDrive - Apple Support

     

    If the computer can use the SuperDrive, then see this:

    Get help with the slot-loading SuperDrive on your Mac computer - Apple Support

  • by K Shaffer,

    K Shaffer K Shaffer Dec 25, 2015 10:28 PM in response to tanka626
    Level 6 (14,340 points)
    Desktops
    Dec 25, 2015 10:28 PM in response to tanka626

    Which model or build series year MacBook computer are you attempting to use

    the Apple USB Superdrive with? If it is a supported model, a newer one, that is

    an important detail. Since you posed in the older model MacBook section it was

    pre-supposed that your computer is of that vintage. However errors do happen.

     

    If the unit does not work, or cannot work as expected, return it to the retailer.

     

    Good luck in this matter!