Option key on start m1 Mac Mini

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Level 1

9 points

Option key on start m1 Mac Mini

I am considering purchase of a M1 powered Mac Mini. I want to continue to use my lighted USB keyboard and Microsoft Trackball Explorer, also USB. It is likely I will have to use a powered USB hub and adapters (unless the USB-A ports don't need it) to connect. My current Mac Pro Tower requires a direct connection to built-in USB ports in order to use the Option key to bring up the Startup Manager, which is sometimes helpful when troubleshooting problems with multiple drives. Would such a direct connection be necessary if I continue to use my preferred keyboard?

I am aware that the Mini has only one SSD; however, as a backup nut, I will be using four external SSDs in an SSD drive docking station, and would like to be able to access them from the Startup Manager.

Posted on Apr 8, 2021 7:51 AM

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Answer 1

den.thed

Level 10

90,376 points

Apr 9, 2021 9:07 AM in response to c warren

For the full scoop on the M1 startup modes including recovery, safe mode, du repair and the startup manager.

see > https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/macos-recovery-a-mac-apple-silicon-mchl82829c17/mac

and > https://maclifeboise.com/2021/01/m1-based-macs-have-new-startup-modes-heres-what-you-need-to-know/

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Answer 2

chris_g1

Community Specialist

Apr 9, 2021 8:52 AM in response to c warren

Hi c warren,

Thanks for participating in the Apple Support Communities. We understand that you'd like to know if a direct connection between your Mac mini and keyboard would be necessary to access Startup Manger, so we'd like to provide some information. If you're using a wireless keyboard, it would need to be plugged in to access Startup Manager as described here: Mac startup key combinations.

We hope this information helps.

Cheers.

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