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iMac Pro 2017 USB-C ports not working

The USB-C ports on my iMac pro are not working - except when I plug in my iPhoneo r iPad.


Computer specs:

27" iMac Pro (2017), 3.2 GHz 8-Core Intel Xeon W, 64 GB 2666 MHz DDR4, Radeon Pro Vega 56 8 GB, OS 11.6


A couple of weeks ago, my external 5k LG monitor suddenly went dark and I lost access to my external HDs. I'm not aware of anything unusual happening at the time. The USB-A ports work but I cannot get the USB-C ports to work.


Assuming it was a hardware issue, I was about to take it into the Genius Bar when I tried one last thing: I plugged my iPad or iPhone in one of the USB-C ports and the iMac can see them. In any of the USB-C ports, they show up in the under Locations and I have full access to them.


Two weird things though: the devices plugged into the USB-C ports are getting power (the drive lights come on, but nothing beyond that) and WiFi has been acting up (stalling, then coming back, then stalling, etc.).


I have tried all the usual things: ran the hardware diagnostic (no errors), zapped the PRAM, reset the SMC, boot to safe mode, reinstalled 11.6, wiped the hard drive and did a clean 11.6 install. Nothing changes. I am at a loss.


Weirdly I saw that Other Word Computing was selling a used iMac Pro where all the USB-C ports and one USB-A port was not working. They don't have an explanation either.


Any thoughts anyone?


Thanks!


Posted on Oct 16, 2021 3:20 PM

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Oct 17, 2021 10:17 AM in response to erbland

New piece of information: I bought a USB-C to USB-A adapter and when I use it to plug in an external USB-C hard drive, I get the notification: "CANNOT USE THUNDERBOLT ACCESSORY Thunderbolt accessories are not supported on this Mac."


When I use the same USB-C to USB-A adapter to plug in my iPad via the USB-A port, the iPad shows up just like it usually does. A signal is getting through, so it seems it is not a hardware issue. But since I have reinstalled the OS, it probably isn't a software issue. Firmware issue?


Even more confused now.

iMac Pro 2017 USB-C ports not working

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