How do I transfer files from an old iBook when it won't recognize the external HD?

Question

How do I transfer files from an old iBook when it won't recognize the external HD?

Hi all,

Subject says it -- I'm trying to transfer the contents of an old iBook onto a Seagate external hard drive to upload into a newer computer, but the iBook "cannot verify" the external hd (which is in fine shape -- works with both a MacBook Pro and an iBook G4), and cannot locate it in disk utility.

Any help would be appreciated -- seriously, all I want to do is copy files out of the computer so I can keep the data and recycle the computer.

Thanks,

Nathan

iBook

Posted on Aug 7, 2012 8:16 AM

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Answer 1

Aug 7, 2012 5:22 PM in response to nathanielfromwashington

How are you attempting to connect? (FireWire or USB?)

Which exact model iBook is it with which you are having this trouble? You can choose from this list:

http://www.everymac.com/systems/apple/ibook/index-ibook.html

Which version of the operating system is it running now?

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Answer 2

Aug 7, 2012 6:57 PM in response to Ronda Wilson

Hi Ronda,

Thanks for writing.

-I've been attempting to use a Seagate external hd with a usb connection.

-It's a G3/500.

-It's currently running 10.1.5, but it also has 9.2.1 (can be set to start up with either)

Any thoughts?

Thanks,

Nathan

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Answer 3

Aug 8, 2012 2:54 AM in response to nathanielfromwashington

It could be that the external drive requires USB 2.0, whereas the iBook's USB ports are USB 1.1.

Which exact model is the Seagate drive? Do you have a link to it so you can check out its requirements?

If you have a FireWire cable and your newer Mac has a FireWire port, you can connect the two using FireWire Target Disk Mode, with the iBook as the Target Disk and the newer computer as the Host and transfer your files directly without using the external drive as an intermediary. (This is one reason I won't buy a Mac that doesn't have a FireWire port.)

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