I've just bought a new iMac with High Sierra. I want to transfer files, folders and particularly emails from my old Mac. A little research suggests that I need a Firewire cable, but I've discovered that there are different types: 6 pin and 9 pin. Can someone please tell me which version I need? Thank you.
How to move your content to a new Mac - Apple Support
Without knowing exactly which iMacs you have we can't yell you exactly which cable you need. iMacs haven’t had firewire since 2012 so you’re going to need a firewire cable and a thunderbolt to firewire adapter to use target disc mode. If the old iMac is running Sierra or later it might be easier to connect the two using ethernet.
Firewire 400 and Firewire 800 use different plugs so a quick visual check will tell you which one your old iMac has.
How to move your content to a new Mac - Apple Support
Without knowing exactly which iMacs you have we can't yell you exactly which cable you need. iMacs haven’t had firewire since 2012 so you’re going to need a firewire cable and a thunderbolt to firewire adapter to use target disc mode. If the old iMac is running Sierra or later it might be easier to connect the two using ethernet.
Firewire 400 and Firewire 800 use different plugs so a quick visual check will tell you which one your old iMac has.
Your 2010 iMac has a firewire 800 (9 pin) connection. You'll need firewire 800 to thunderbolt 2 adapter and if your new iMac is a 2017 model you'll need a thunderbolt 3 to thunderbolt 2 adapter also.
Firstly, my thanks for such a prompt reply and my apologies for not providing all the information you need. My old Mac is a mid-2010 one and had been upgraded as far as El Capitan (the graphics thing is dying, causing weird screen effects). The new one, (bought last week) has OS 10.13.6.
I tried to connect them using an ethernet cable, with the old one in target disc mode, but the new one wouldn't 'see' the old one. Your information is very helpful - particularly the picture and I should now be able to find the cables I need. Thank you. :)
Mike Sombrio - that is so helpful; problem solved! I'm very grateful.
You’re very welcome! Enjoy your new iMac.
Firewire cable
