Option key don't work on boot

Question

Level 1

1 points

Option key don't work on boot

Hello,

When some usb devices are connected on my mac mini, all boot option aren't work...for exemple, when i have connected my external Hard Disque or my usb key or a usb device on my mac mini, i want to selecte Windows partition for the boot, BUT the OPTION Key DONT WORK!!!!! And its only want to work if i Unplug all those usb devices, when my mac mini has no usb plugged in, option key work good !!

What is the problem ? please help because at the moment the only way if i want to swich between OSX and Windows is to use the boot device selector in the system menu panel, but i want to be able to use Option key even if usb plugged in.

Please HELPPPPP

Thanks in advance

Sylvain

Mac mini, Mac OS X (10.7.3)

Posted on Apr 21, 2012 9:26 AM

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Answer 1

Apr 21, 2012 11:04 AM in response to cypersnap

Let us clarify:

- option/alt key does not work after chime (specific sound after boot) – but it does work when unplugging all devices? If yes, then your devices take too much power from the USB port, use a powered USB hub (it has a power adaptor, and gives it additional power)

- it never works at startup after chime – you set a firmware password, and cannot boot from other devices, but I understand this is not your case.

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Answer 2

den.thed

Level 10

91,018 points

Apr 21, 2012 11:26 AM in response to cypersnap

I tend to agree with Cattus Thraex, moving those other bus powered USB devices to a self powered hub would help.

You also might try rearranging your USB devices and move your USB keyboard to the center most USB port.

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Answer 3

KevinD

Level 1

5 points

Apr 21, 2012 12:19 PM in response to cypersnap

Booting up using the Option Key on the  Wireless Keyboard has been a problem under Lion. So if that is what you use, I suggest switching to a USB wired keyboard. I use the  wired keyboard. Works every time.

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Answer 4

cypersnap Author

Level 1

1 points

Apr 21, 2012 3:18 PM in response to cypersnap

I think i found the problem...

Its my USB3 external hard disque 3.5, it has his DC power but it use usb3, its working on os but the boot option (option/alt) do not work if my usb 3 hard disk is connected. Now i have juste unplugged it from the mini and everything is working now... Bad news for me because i use this device for timemachine use.

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Answer 5

vawiha

Level 1

0 points

Dec 15, 2013 8:13 PM in response to cypersnap

I was having the same problem, but after connecting a self powered USB hub into the mac mini and plugging all USB devices in the hub, the option key on startup worked, but not if the USB startup drive is plugged directly into the mac mini.

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Answer 6

BDAqua

Level 10

250,253 points

Dec 15, 2013 8:23 PM in response to vawiha

Great advice/tip, thanks for your help! 🙂

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Answer 7

wbpluto

Level 1

4 points

Nov 23, 2016 9:29 AM in response to Cattus Thraex

Thanks so much, this really works for my Mac mini!!!!!!!

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