MRISX

Q: I can create a recovery bootable USB through disk utility?

My HDD is dying, I can't access to my Machintosh HD partition anymore and I can't reinstall OS because I have SMART errors. Before the format and reinstall attempt  my computer was loading slowly, random errors, etc. So I definetly think the HDD is close to dead. My plan is to replace my HDD for a blank SSD, I had perform this task several times on Win computers but for MAC I am wondering how I will load the OS again. I can do a bootable USB with the recovery partition tools but on a USB? Unofrtunately I don't have more Macs available to create the bootable USB through itunes.

 

My computer is the MacBook Pro (13-inch Mid 2010), I also have all the original packaging somewhere, so If there is a CD I can use, I definetly can get it too.

 

Any advice?

 

Thanks!

MacBook Pro

Posted on Oct 2, 2016 8:05 PM

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Q: I can create a recovery bootable USB through disk utility?

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  • by Drew Reece,

    Drew Reece Drew Reece Oct 3, 2016 8:55 PM in response to MRISX
    Level 5 (7,741 points)
    Notebooks
    Oct 3, 2016 8:55 PM in response to MRISX

    Apple have this to make a USB installer…

    Create a bootable installer for OS X - Apple Support

    Another option is to use the app from diskmakerx.com

    You need to have the OS installer downloaded to make those methods work so it is probably not practical on your failing disk.

     

    Both of those options expect you to be running a 'normal' OS too. The recovery partition is not 'normal'.

     

    Another option is to use Internet recovery mode if your Mac supports it…

    Computers that can be upgraded to use OS X Internet Recovery - Apple Support

    About macOS Recovery - Apple Support

    Use wired ethernet for best results as it will download a bootable OS & then download the OS installer too.

    I suspect you have the firmware update installed to add this feature if it was updated in the last 3 years

     

    You may be able to generate a spare recovery partition on another disk (like a USB key) if you just want a basic 'repair OS'.

    OS X: About Recovery Disk Assistant - Apple Support

     

    A final option would be to clone your failing disk to an external disk (or use the new SSD in a suitable case). That can be done in any of the Recovery modes via Disk Utility. Basically you use a 'restore' feature to clone one volume to another. (I can't see clear instructions at the moment so ask if you want to pursue this option).

  • by MRISX,

    MRISX MRISX Oct 3, 2016 8:29 AM in response to Drew Reece
    Level 1 (8 points)
    Notebooks
    Oct 3, 2016 8:29 AM in response to Drew Reece

    Thanks for the reply. I think I will try the external disk method. I will check if my computer support internet recovery, It is a mid 2010 mac book pro and is listed. But I don't remember if I updated the firmware, I don't think so. =(

  • by Drew Reece,Solvedanswer

    Drew Reece Drew Reece Oct 3, 2016 9:42 AM in response to MRISX
    Level 5 (7,741 points)
    Notebooks
    Oct 3, 2016 9:42 AM in response to MRISX

    I think the firmware updates are pushed with software update. Macs tend to get them applied so the easiest way to check for internet recovery mode is to boot holding cmd+alt+r (alt is sometimes labelled option or opt).

     

    Use a wired internet connection, eventually it should show a globe & boot into internet recovery - it is a slow process at times though.

  • by MRISX,

    MRISX MRISX Oct 3, 2016 8:56 PM in response to Drew Reece
    Level 1 (8 points)
    Notebooks
    Oct 3, 2016 8:56 PM in response to Drew Reece

    Thanks,  I am a happy camper now.  I made it through the Internet recovery.  Thanks Drew