Can I have an external hard drive sitting on top of my new Mac Mini?

Question

Can I have an external hard drive sitting on top of my new Mac Mini?

Storage space on top of my desk is at a premium. Can I keep an external hard drive on top of the Mac Mini?

Posted on Mar 14, 2023 8:22 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

den.thed

Level 10

91,012 points

Mar 14, 2023 8:51 AM in response to Saundra Curry

One problem, is that it could effect your Mac mini's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth reception.

see > Resolve Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues caused by wireless interference - Apple Support

If you're using USB 3 or Thunderbolt 3 devices with your computer, you can limit their potential to interfere with nearby wireless devices:

Use a high-quality, shielded USB or Thunderbolt 3 cable with each device.
Move your USB 3 or Thunderbolt 3 devices—including any USB hubs—farther away from your wireless devices.
Avoid placing USB 3 or Thunderbolt 3 devices on top of your Mac.
Turn off any USB 3 devices that aren't in use.

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Answer 2

Mar 16, 2023 9:34 AM in response to den.thed

I’ve not noted any Wi-Fi or Bluetooth interference issues with this configuration.

But had issues with drive head read and write access noise of said hard drives,

and

usb interface drive not shutting down after power off of M1 Mac mini. Switching to thunderbolt resolved shut off issue.

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Answer 3

Mar 14, 2023 8:24 AM in response to Saundra Curry

Should be no problem doing this, I’ve done it with no issues.

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Answer 4

Mar 14, 2023 9:26 AM in response to den.thed

Thank you, I appreciate your input and the link.

I don't know what Thunderbolt cable I have, though I just bought it at Apple when I got the computer and display, so I assume it is a 3. I've had the hard drive sitting on top of the Mac Mini for only a week or so, and have not experienced any Bluetooth or Wi-Fi issues. However, it is probably best not to have anything sitting on top of the Mac Mini.

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