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I get this error when trying to update my early 2013 Macbook Air to Catalina from El Capitain: You may not install this volume because the computer is missing a firmware partition.
I am running an internal OWC Aura SSD formatted for Mac OS Extended (journaled), which I understand is probably the problem. Is there a way to update to Catalina running a third party internal drive?
MacBook Air
See if your SSD can use this OWC SSD firmware update (I have no idea why OWC doesn't put this firmware update on their SSD download section):
https://eshop.macsales.com/Service/Knowledgebase/Article/10/730/Aura-SSDs-Firmware-Update
If this doesn't work, then you will need to reinstall the original Apple SSD and install macOS 10.13+ to the original Apple SSD. The macOS 10.13+ installers require an original Apple PCIe SSD to be installed internally. The original Apple PCIe SSD needs to be GUID partition and MacOS Extended (Journaled). This will allow the macOS 10.13+ installer to upgrade the laptop's system firmware.
See if your SSD can use this OWC SSD firmware update (I have no idea why OWC doesn't put this firmware update on their SSD download section):
https://eshop.macsales.com/Service/Knowledgebase/Article/10/730/Aura-SSDs-Firmware-Update
If this doesn't work, then you will need to reinstall the original Apple SSD and install macOS 10.13+ to the original Apple SSD. The macOS 10.13+ installers require an original Apple PCIe SSD to be installed internally. The original Apple PCIe SSD needs to be GUID partition and MacOS Extended (Journaled). This will allow the macOS 10.13+ installer to upgrade the laptop's system firmware.
Thank you! This solved the problem--very glad you saw this and took the time to reply!
You're welcome. It is hard to locate since it isn't on the downloads/support page for the SSD updates. I have no idea why it isn't. I had to use it several years ago myself.
You may not install this volume because the computer is missing a firmware partition
