Target Disk Mode using USB

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Target Disk Mode using USB

I have read a few articles that Target Disk Mode using USB (3.0 or 3.1) is possible but I can't seem to get it to work.

I'm trying to transfer data from an slightly older MacBook Pro (early 2015 with Thunderbolt 2 and USB 3 type-A) to a new 2019 MacBook Pro with only Thunderbolt 3s.

I boot the 2015 MBP into target disk mode and only the Thunderbolt lightning logo shows. I do not see the USB logo. Then I connec a cable of USB-C to 2019 MBP to USB-A to 2015 MPB and nothing happens.

What is the requirement to boot into TDM that would use USB (3.0 or 3.1) on the MBP?

The 2015 MBP definitely are using USB 3.0/1 with USB type-A ports.

It's also running MacOS Sierra. Do I need a newer version of MacOS?

Thank you!

Posted on Jul 13, 2019 3:23 AM

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Answer 1

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HWTech

Level 9

64,040 points

Jul 13, 2019 5:50 PM in response to jt-kgy

Use an Apple Thunderbolt 3 USB-C to Thunderbolt 2 adapter, then connect using a Thunderbolt 2 Cable.

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Answer 2

HWTech

Level 9

64,040 points

Jul 18, 2019 6:51 PM in response to jt-kgy

I would assume if only the Thunderbolt logo shows up, then it can only transfer using Thunderbolt. I believe USB Target Disk Mode requires the computer being put into Target Disk Mode to have a USB-C port which will then show both the Thunderbolt symbol and the USB symbol on the screen. Apple's actual documentation is a bit lacking in specifics.

The cable and adapters you use can also affect whether a transfer is possible since the USB-C cable which ships with your laptop is a power cable which transfers data using USB2. I've also seen reports where Migration Assistant may not work with all modes.

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Answer 3

jt-kgy Author

Level 1

8 points

Jul 18, 2019 3:45 PM in response to HWTech

I do know that will work.

The adapter, however, is $50 bucks then you add cost of the thunderbolt 2 cable when any USB 3.0/1 should be capable of doing the file transfer.

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