Finder stuck at "Preparing to copy.."

Question

Level 1

9 points

Finder stuck at "Preparing to copy.."

Every time I try to copy large files (more than 100GB) the small window which shows the copy progress continues showing "Preparing to copy..". It is not really stuck, and I can cancel it if I choose to, but it doesn't copy the file either. I tried copying my iPhoto Library when I discovered this issue. It also happens if I enter Time Machine and try to restore and older (local) copy of the library.

Does anyone know how to solve this problem?

I would really appreciate any kind of help.

(I'm using OS X 10.8.2.)

Mac Pro, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.2)

Posted on Mar 8, 2013 11:15 AM

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Answer 1

Linc Davis

Level 10

209,547 points

Mar 8, 2013 12:14 PM in response to radu92

How long do you give it before canceling? Copying 100 GB of small files in the Finder could take several hours.

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Answer 2

radu92 Author

Level 1

9 points

Mar 8, 2013 12:21 PM in response to Linc Davis

I waited for around 30 minutes before cancelling it. I am aware that it can take very long, but the problem is the finder doesn't even show the progress. It doesn't change beyond the "Preparing to copy.." state. Is it normal to take that long just to prepare the process?

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Answer 3

Linc Davis

Level 10

209,547 points

Mar 8, 2013 1:02 PM in response to radu92

There is no progress indication while "Preparing to copy." Depending on how many files you have and what else is going on, it could take more than 30 minutes. I suggest you let it run overnight.

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