IMac does not recognize external superdrive

Question

IMac does not recognize external superdrive

I have a IMac, early 2008, 4 Gig of memory and with the latest sofeware updates 10.8.2. The superdrive works sporatically. I purchased an Apple external superdrive. The IMac will not recognize the external superdrive. I have searched the form and the only solution I have been able to find is a technical answer that does not make any sense. If possible, can anyone tell me, in as simple terms as possible, why the IMac does not recognize the external superdrive?

Posted on Dec 28, 2012 3:50 PM

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Answer 1

MichelPM

Level 10

80,980 points

Dec 28, 2012 5:29 PM in response to Robert Hodson

It is possible that this new Apple SuperDrive is not compatible with older iMacs.

It was designed to work with the new Mac Mini and, probably, the brand new iMacs.

Return it for a refund.

There are many third party optical drives that will work with older Macs and iMacs.

Take a look here

http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/optical-drives/superdrives/

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Answer 2

den.thed

Level 9

77,290 points

Dec 28, 2012 5:44 PM in response to Robert Hodson

Apple's USB SuperDrive only works with Apple Systems that do not have a built in SuperDrive.

Please read the System Requirements at > Apple USB SuperDrive - Apple Store (U.S.)

You should return it and get either a LG, LaCie or OWC External DVD Drive.

For example I use a > LG GE24LU20 with my iMac and Mac Mini, while others here highly recommend both the > LaCie's and > OWC Mercury Pro's

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Answer 3

Dec 29, 2012 6:17 AM in response to den.thed

Thanks

I appreciate the information. I can't believe Apple would sell a device for their computers that will not work on all their computer..

Anyway its an easy work around.

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Answer 4

den.thed

Level 9

77,290 points

Dec 29, 2012 8:05 AM in response to Robert Hodson

Your welcome!

I concur, especially sense the Mac's have no problem seeing and using mutiple disc drives.

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