Macbook wont recognize external Passport HD after memory upgrade to get Time Machine data

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Level 1

8 points

Macbook wont recognize external Passport HD after memory upgrade to get Time Machine data

Hi, I replaced the 128g memory with 256g in my spouses 2012 Macbook air. I used Time Machine and backed the data up to a WD Passport external drive. When I plug it into the USB port in her mac, it does not show up under files. I even checked the box 'external hd' using so it would show up, it does not. I went to the utilities and got it to show up, ran "First Aid" via clicking that option, but the 'mount' option is still greyed out. My WD Passport shows up on my Macbook just fine when I plug it into the USB drive, and I see her Time Machine backup from this morning, but it wont show up on hers, so I cannot restore her files. What else can I do to restore her files?

Posted on Sep 12, 2021 12:32 PM

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Answer 1

KiltedTim

Level 10

228,936 points

Sep 13, 2021 3:15 AM in response to PersonY

There are multiple file systems used by macOS.

I'm going to take a wild guess and say it was probably formatted using Catalina or Mojave, or converted to APFS by one of them, and is not readable by Sierra.

Upgrade macOS on the machine then try again.

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Answer 2

PersonY Author

Level 1

8 points

Sep 12, 2021 12:54 PM in response to KiltedTim

First, thank you for trying to help. Omg you are so right. I replaced the HD, not the memory. Currently the version showing installed is macOS Sierra 10.12.6.

Im not sure about the macOS version that was used to make the back up, but it might be the same. It was trying to download BigSur before and she didn’t let it, and it’s attempting it now, but I’m not letting it.

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Answer 3

PersonY Author

Level 1

8 points

Sep 12, 2021 8:12 PM in response to KiltedTim

It’s formatted for a Mac. The drive hows up on my Mac just fine

first aid just said “process done” but nothing changed. When you go to finder the drive still isn’t showing. If you stay in utilities the “mount” option is still greyed out.

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Answer 4

PersonY Author

Level 1

8 points

Sep 13, 2021 6:19 AM in response to KiltedTim

Thank you! It’s worth a try. I’m going to try it when I have time in between my work day (time permitting). If upgrading the OS works, I’ll definitely let you know. If not, I’m going to need to take it a Mac repair shop and see if they can help me. I’m not sure if the official Mac store we have here Tampa looks at issues like this. The support site doesn’t say. Instead it brought me here as an option or to have a live chat. Thank you for all of your help

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