MissZezzo
Level 1 (0 points)

Q: How can I make my 2009 macbook pro recognize my 2013 macbook pro on migration assistant via USB?

Hi! I'm trying to transfer data from my macbook pro 2009 to my macbook pro 2013 using migration assistant. I have them connected using a USB (don't have a firewire or thunderbolt cable, or the necessary adaptors), and they are also on the same network.  My 2013 macbook can 'find' my 2009 macbook with no problem, and will show the number code I'm supposed to see on the 2009 as well... but the 2009 isn't able to recognize my 2013 macbook. I know enough to make sure both had fully updated software. I'm no techie, so I've tried reconnecting, restarting, etc, but am out of ideas. any easy to follow ideas? Thank youu Internet!

MacBook Pro

Posted on Feb 23, 2014 11:34 AM

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MissZezzo

Q: How can I make my 2009 macbook pro recognize my 2013 macbook pro on migration assistant via USB?

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  • by Kappy,

    Kappy Kappy Feb 23, 2014 11:37 AM in response to MissZezzo
    Level 10 (271,860 points)
    Desktops
    Feb 23, 2014 11:37 AM in response to MissZezzo

    Can't use USB. You can use Ethernet, Thunderbolt, or Firewire. You can use Thunderbolt if you purchase the Thunderbolt to Firewire adaptor. Or you can use Ethernet.

  • by MissZezzo,

    MissZezzo MissZezzo Feb 23, 2014 11:44 AM in response to Kappy
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Feb 23, 2014 11:44 AM in response to Kappy

    The 2013 (Retina, if I should have specified) doesn't have an ethernet port, if I'm not mistaken. Also (this is probably a stupid question), but if the USB doesn't work, why can my 2013 recognize my 2009 with no problem?

  • by Kappy,

    Kappy Kappy Feb 23, 2014 11:50 AM in response to MissZezzo
    Level 10 (271,860 points)
    Desktops
    Feb 23, 2014 11:50 AM in response to MissZezzo

    There are ways to migrate from your old computer, but not using USB cables. You can get a Thunderbolt cable that connects to your new computer. Put a Thunderbolt to Firewire adaptor on the other end and connect it to the Firewire port on your old computer. Boot the old computer intoTarget Disk Mode. It's disk drive should appear on the Desktop of your new computer. You can now access the old computer as you would any other HDD. You can then use Migration Assistant to transfer your data from the old computer to the new one.