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User profile for user: lordcope
lordcope Author
User level: Level 1
8 points

Brand new Mac Mini not connecting to wireless

I've just unboxed a brand new mac mini. During setup it finds my wireless network, but despite entering the WPA2 password, the connection is not established.


My wireless network is provided by a TP Link mobile hotspot. I have it on the desk about 50 cm from the mac mini. On the same desk is MacBook Air, on which I am currently typing, which is connected to the hotspot, and a Macbook Pro, which is also connected to the hotspot without issue.


I've powercycled the hotspot several times, with no effect. On each occasion the two macbooks connect fine, and the mac mini does not.


Next I tried to use my iPhone as personal hotspot. This is a new iPhone SE, which again, I am able to use with the other macbooks. However again, attempting to connect with the mac mini is unsuccessful in exactly the same way.


I do not have a wired connection available, so currently I have a very expensive brick sitting on my desk.


Needless to say I am not delighted by this!


I've run the wireless diagnostics, and untarred the file, and can share its contents if that would help further troubleshooting.


Help! :)


Again,

Posted on May 18, 2020 10:49 AM

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User profile for user: QuickPost
QuickPost
User level: Level 10
103,365 points

Posted on May 18, 2020 11:17 AM

Hello,


Try running the following tests:


How to reset the System Management Controller (SMC) on your Mac - Apple Support


Reset NVRAM or PRAM on your Mac - Apple Support


How to use Apple Hardware Test on your Mac - Apple Support

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User profile for user: lordcope
lordcope Author
User level: Level 1
8 points

May 19, 2020 2:12 AM in response to QuickPost

Resetting the SMC helped short term, but after a few hours of operation the network stopped again. Another SMC reset fixed it. Then when I woke the computer this morning the network was not functioning again (although it was showing as connected). Again, resetting the SMC worked for a while, and then ground to a halt.


This time resetting the SMC did not help. I also tried resetting the NVRAM, which didn't help.


As I write, I notice that the network has started working again after being on for about 15 mins, and not working.


During all of these issues the two macbooks have had uninterrupted connections and no issues at all.


I'm running the mac diagnostics now, and will see what that uncovers.


At this stage I have very low confidence in my purchase, and feel like maybe I need to send it back for a replacement :(

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Brand new Mac Mini not connecting to wireless

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