How do I transfer files mac to mac manually?

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Level 1

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How do I transfer files mac to mac manually?

I am trying to transfer files from one mac to another mac. The older mac was not backed up to external drive so doing this via ethernet cord. Note that I did successfully replace my new mac with the old mac configuration via Migration Assistant. However that is NOT what I wanted to do. I do not one all the apps and other files that are on the old mac only select files and no apps. So I was able to recover a day earlier so my new mac is back to being new. But now I am at step zero.

So my specific questions are do I need to use Migration Assistant? And if I do how and where in the process do I relay that I only want select files? If I do not have to use Migration Assistant then what is the process for transferring the files. I see the option for sharing but will that save the files to the new mac?

Thank in advance for your detailed response.

Macbook Pro 13, Mac OS X (10.6.5)

Posted on Feb 8, 2015 11:34 AM

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Answer 1

Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

Feb 8, 2015 11:38 AM in response to JMRH

Turn on File Sharing on both computers. You can then manually select and transfer the files you want using Drag and Drop.

Mac Basics- File Sharing

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Answer 2

Feb 8, 2015 11:45 AM in response to JMRH

Some good information by Kappy

how does migration assistant work?

A Basic Guide for Migrating Files from One Computer to Another

Never mind! Kappy just posted 🙂 while I was composing.

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Answer 3

JMRH Author

Level 1

10 points

Feb 8, 2015 12:07 PM in response to Kappy

Thanks Kappy...the only problem is the the graphics card is not working correctly in the old mac. I get yellow lines like a plaidish pattern all across the screen. Long story don't want to get into it. But short part is I can't see jack crap to make file sharing changes in the old mac. I lucked up yesterday and after the system was off for a VERY LONG time. No graphics issues but as soon as it warmed up the tedious issue was back. So I really need to use Migration Assistant which I can see enough of to make changes or click continue in the old mac. The old mac is a Mid 2010 so if you can send me a screen shot of the file share screen I will have an idea of what I am selecting.

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Answer 4

JMRH Author

Level 1

10 points

Feb 8, 2015 12:08 PM in response to Sparkleberry

Thank you Sparkleberry. Do you live in Columbia, SC by chance?

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Answer 5

JMRH Author

Level 1

10 points

Feb 8, 2015 12:21 PM in response to Kappy

Okay I have a question Target Disk Mode.....????? Is my old computer the target disk or the new computer? I am thinking the old one is because that is where I am trying to pull information.

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Answer 6

Kappy

Level 10

361,741 points

Feb 8, 2015 12:23 PM in response to JMRH

Can you connect the two using Firewire? If so, then you can boot the old computer into Target Disk Mode and access the drive directly. No need for a working screen.

Here's the setup on my system:

You will find the above configuration in the Sharing preferences panel.

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Answer 7

JMRH Author

Level 1

10 points

Feb 13, 2015 4:24 PM in response to Kappy

Thanks Kappy....I am just getting back to this now that the weekend is here. Okay I have a few questions. Note this is all a little new to me....so thank you for your patience.

1) So when I put my old computer with bad graphics in Target Disc Mode I should be able to get files?

2) Do I have connect using firewire or can I used an ethernet connection?

3) When in Target Disc Mode does my old computer have to have file sharing indicated?

Thanks for your help.

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Answer 8

Feb 14, 2015 6:55 AM in response to JMRH

No, but I have visited Charleston 🙂

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