SSD won't turn on when plugged into MacBook

Question

Level 1

4 points

SSD won't turn on when plugged into MacBook

Hi so I have a Seagate external storage device, and I have a 2022 MacBook Air and it only has USB-C ports, so I got an adaptor. However when I plug it into my MacBook, it doesn't turn on or anything. It isn't the adaptor as I tested it with my pc and it turns my SSD on and connects and woks just fine and I just really don't understand. It is definitely meant to be compatible with MacBook too. System Report also tells me that there is nothing connected to the USB-C ports. Plus I don't think it is the ports themselves because I just tried my charger and it worked fine then.

MacBook Air

Posted on Nov 12, 2024 10:04 AM

Reply

Answer 1

dwb

Level 7

33,100 points

Nov 12, 2024 1:06 PM in response to KFChicken

I assume the cable you used to test with the PC is the same one you used on the Mac. If so we know it is a good cable. If not that is a possible culprit to test. We know the SSD works. We know the Mac’s port works to charge the computer. That leaves the adaptor and the port for data. My money is on the adaptor. Do you have any way to test that the adaptor is functional - use it to plug in a USB keyboard or mouse for example.

Reply

Answer 2

KFChicken Author

Level 1

4 points

Nov 14, 2024 5:32 AM in response to dwb

I just tried it with my mouse and it doesn't work.. the adaptor seems to work when using it with my PC but not my MacBook. It's just a generic cheap adaptor- would I be able to do something like get a different brand, or get a cable for my SSD that has a USB-C connector or something? Or do only Apple made adaptors work? (I really don't want to have to pay £19 for an adaptor)

Reply

Answer 3

dwb

Level 7

33,100 points

Nov 14, 2024 6:28 AM in response to KFChicken

No special adaptors required; if it works on your PC it should work on your Mac. Two suggestions: 1) take a good look at the USB port to make sure there's no lint or other debris inside. 2) reset SMC - instructions here - Reset the SMC of your Mac - Apple Support I've seen it need 2 or 3 resets to work. After that, a call to Apple support is in order

Reply

Answer 4

dwb

Level 7

33,100 points

Nov 16, 2024 7:49 AM in response to KFChicken

SMC manages power systems and resetting it can solve a number of hardware issues. See: https://support.apple.com/en-us/102605?displayMode=headless

Reply

Answer 5

KFChicken Author

Level 1

4 points

Nov 16, 2024 6:30 AM in response to dwb

SMC?

Reply