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Apple TV won't connect to computer with Micro USB

I want to connect my Apple TV to my computer using the USB but it won't work. When I plug it in it doesn't light up and doesn't show up on iTunes. Note that this Micro USB works with my other devices like phone or Kindle!

Apple TV

Posted on Mar 28, 2014 7:56 PM

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23 replies

Apr 11, 2017 3:28 PM in response to GCMios

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.



User uploaded file

Mar 28, 2014 9:05 PM in response to PRKSlayer

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! 😀

Jun 7, 2015 1:10 PM in response to vazandrew

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…

Jun 7, 2015 1:39 PM in response to vazandrew

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

Jun 7, 2015 2:32 PM in response to beyondthenet3

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

Apple TV won't connect to computer with Micro USB

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