How do I create a USB installer for another MacBook?

Question

How do I create a USB installer for another MacBook?

I'm attempting to create a Mojave USB installer for another MacBook Pro (A1502) using my MacBook Air (A2179) and am incredibly frustrated. I have consulted HT201372 and upon the link for Mojave the App Store naturally launches. I click 'Get' which then launches the Software Update module on my MBA which leads to an 'Update Not Found' error message.

I get it, my newer device isn't intended for such an old operating system (FFS). I'm simply trying to create a USB installer for an old MacBook Pro that isn't connecting to the internet (suspected faulty AirPort card and no ethernet adapter on hand).

So yeah, if anyone can point me in a direction so I can create a Mojave USB installer using my MacBook Air (A2179) for use on a MacBook Pro (A1502) it would be much appreciated.

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 12.3

Posted on Apr 27, 2022 1:54 AM

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Answer 1

Best reply

PRP_53

Level 10

85,591 points

Apr 27, 2022 2:45 AM in response to one_rotten_apple

To perform this action will require booting from a Bootable Installer.

This will have to be performed from a Qualifying Computer to run the version of macOS to be made on the Bootable Installer. Example : Bootable Installer of Mojave would have to be done on a computer that Qualifies to run Mojave .

Notation: If the computer being used to perform this action is Too New or Too Old to qualify to run the version of macOS - this computer can not be used.

Get access to another computer that Qualifies to Run Mojave even if from a friend, associate, school etc

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Answer 2

dialabrain

Level 10

122,729 points

Apr 27, 2022 2:43 AM in response to one_rotten_apple

FWIW, unfortunately you need access to a Mac that can actually run Mojave in order to download it to create a bootable USB installer. Based on your MBP model number, there are 9 models from 2013 on. You could download Catalina to your MBA and create a bootable USB Catalina installer.

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Answer 3

Apr 28, 2022 7:42 PM in response to PRP_53

Thank you for the information, I genuinely appreciate it.

Now, if someone from Apple reads this- that restriction is the most asinine restriction. It seems that Apple is working very hard to make older devices obsolete. My time as a fan of Apple is quickly coming to a close....

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Answer 4

Apr 28, 2022 7:45 PM in response to dialabrain

Thank you for the reply, I appreciate it. Unfortunately (in my view) Catalina was the beginning of bad OS's that have been coming from Apple. I'm pretty computer savvy and don't appreciate the increasing control that Apple exercises with regard to what I can and cannot do with my devices.

Soon to be for sale - iPhone 12 Pro and an A2179...

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