Brand new USb superdrive not being recognized on 21.5" 2017 imac

how is the drive powered??? If it is buss powered that is likly the problem. iMacs frequently do not output enough power from their USB ports so you need an independent power supply for the USB drive.

What power supply would you recommend? Super Drives usually do not work through a hub. My Super Drive works fine with my MBA M1 and my iMac 27" and my 2012 Mac Mini. If it does not work with the new 24' iMac the port must really have low power output.

If this is the Apple USB SuperDrive you cannot get an independent power supply for it. There is no power-in port for external power.

Apple recommends connecting the drive directly to the computer, no hubs. Why? I don't know. Powered hubs usually work well with the majority of power-hungry USB devices.

Get help with the slot-loading SuperDrive on your Mac computer - Apple Support

Apple's USB SuperDrive has remained unchanged since it was introduced in 2012, yet Apple computers and their ports, and port speeds have continued to evolve. We see a lot of issues reported here with Apple's SuperDrive There are several posted only today.

Had I a need for an external DVD drive, I would go this route:

1) Return the SuperDrive as defective and get a refund.

2) Have a look at this one: https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/MR3USD24/

It is based on proven drive technology and comes an independent power supply. It also has a USB3 5GB/sec chipset so is about 10X faster the Apple's outdated USB2 0.48GB/sec version. And it's 5 bucks cheaper.

I have several and none work with the Apple Super Drive and also Apple support told me they should be connected directly to Mac. Perhaps there is one out there that works so if someone has used one please let me know.

What adapter did you use? USB-A to USB-C I assume. Try flipping the adapter and see what happens.

You may need a better USB hub. You will need to research for one.

Good ida and worthy of trying.

<redacted: posted to the wrong person>