Apple TV won't connect to computer with Micro USB

FOUND SOLUTION!!!

the power cable needs to be disconnected. the only cable that should be connected is the usb port. !!

Did you follow the steps exactly? Removing all cables, then connecting via micro usb (if on a 3rd gen, you need to connect power). Make sure to connect directly to computer, not a keyboard port or USB hub. Try a different cable.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4367?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US

I had read that page but until now did not see the small grey text about needing a non-charging usb cable.

I think Apple needs to put call-outs in big red letters so dummies like-me don't glance over the small grey type.

Why make vital text small/grey as if it is not so important?

Anyway, I know this is not your fault.

Thank you for helping.

As above, cables meant for charging wont work (this requires data transfer) and those bundled with other devices may only be designed to work with that device

Yes, the OP is trying to restore the unit. He was referring to the fact that the micro usb cable works when in use with the Kindle (separately from iTunes).

However, certain cables are only meant for charging purposes or specific devices, and thus trying a different cable is advised.

I was trying this with a micro-usb cable that charges an external battery, and it did not work. I switched to a Kindle cable, but that also did not work. I rooted around and found some other micro-usb cable, which did work.

Moral of the story is that not all micro-usb cables are completely functional.

Just a quick note to everyone.

I too had the same problem with my ATV Third Generation.

I tried several Micro USB cables, none of which worked. I was almost ready to give up believing my ATV was simply not serviceable.

I then remembered that I had a Samsung Micro USB cable that came with my new work phone. I tried this cable and it immediately worked and enabled me to recover my ATV through iTunes.

The cable I used was the charging cable, but I assume it also passes data as it worked fine..

Good luck to anyone still having problems..

GCMios wrote:

The actual cable is called USB c cable -- that is the correct one and I have tested several and they all work great.

Only the 4th generation Apple TV has a USB-C port. It did not exist back when this thread was started and for most of its existence.

Second and Third generation Apple Tvs referred to in this thread have a Micro USB port.

A USB-C cable will not work in a micro USB port.

The Apple TV's Mini USB port is solely used for service & diagnostics. That being said, you must be trying to restore your device from iTunes, which is the only USB function I'm aware of. I don't know why you'd connect a Kindle? Perhaps this is what's confusing me. Could you be more specific? Sorry, I hope I can understand & be of assistance. How is the device behaving? what's the issue?

Here is a guide to restoring your Apple TV. If that's your goal, I'm sure you found it already: http://support.apple.com/kb/ht4367

If that does not work, then I'd assume it's a hardware issue. The USB cable, or the USB port on either device may be faulty. at which point, I'd say vazandrew gives good advice.

Wish you luck! 😀

No one here works for Apple, this is a user support forum. There aren't that many posts as it's really a small group of users that encounter this (this issue is caused by an interruption during updating or environment, i.e. power outage).

There are a few of us that try to support regularly and do post what is required. The Apple support page also states this (which easily comes up with a search of 'apple tv restore' or similar), which was linked to earlier in the thread.

Restore your Apple TV (2nd and 3rd generation) - Apple Support

I've tried almost 12 different cables. Am based out of India. Also took it to an authorized Apple repair shop here. Even their cable didn't work. Probably needs some magical (uber expensive) Apple's own cable...

What if you do not live near an Apple Store?

I tried 3 micro-usb cables and none of them worked. Can someone point to an inexpensive cable on Amazon or Ebay that will work with a Mac and Apple TV (second generation).

I have two Apple TVs and both broke at the same time (can see Apple logo only). I have tried all the instructions on Apple's support and nothing works. The only thing I can think of is that all my usb cables are designed for charging only.

=====

Update: I found a 4th micro usb cable and it connected to iTunes!!

Unless you hear from me again, then I think the problem most people are having is that they are using charging usb cables. The one that is finally working is a Belkin is this model on Amazon for $6:

Belkin 4-Feet MIXIT Micro USB Cable (Blue), Compatible with Amazon Fire Phone

http://www.amazon.com/Belkin-4-Feet-MIXIT-Compatible-Amazon/dp/B00E65OLXC/ref=sr _1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1433707750&sr=8-5&keywo…

Andrew, if you work for Apple, I suggest that you go to the countless threads on this topic and post the 'need non-charging usb' answer before countless people become forever frustrated with Apple.

Similar search strings that I tried:

how to restore apple tv

apple tv logo only showing

apple tv broken after updates

apple tv blinking

apple tv died

etc ad adfinitum

Just one more thing... I also had problems connecting with the micro usb cable (two different ones) and how I finally made it work was by unplugging the apple tv (while still plugged into the computer) and then replugging it. It finally showed up on iTunes! 🙂

No problem. Just to give context, the data transfer would occur when wiping the device and also to reload the firmware.

Feel free to give Apple feedback directly

http://www.apple.com/feedback/