We have an iPad that is stuck in an unusable condition.
We had a user account on a model # A1474 that needed to be removed. Since we didn't have the password we couldn't do so. I decided to use iTunes to do a full restore to factory state and then use Apple Configurator 2.7 to restore one of our profiles to it.
in the iTunes-based restore process the serial # of the iPad was visible on the OS 10.14 Mac that it was connected to. Then the serial # was replaced by "N/A" and I got the message "Could Not Connect To The Device". Then I was told "The iPad xxxxxxx could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (9)." It is stuck with the power cord icon showing on it. I followed the same full restore process that has always worked: with iTunes on on the Mac, hold down the power & home buttons until first the apple then the power cord icon shows up, then connect the iPad cable to the Mac. This has never happened before.
I looked up the "9" error. I was told to replace the cable, which I did, and make sure the MacOS and iTunes were up to date - they were. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.