Install Snow Leopard without Disc

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Install Snow Leopard without Disc

I am preparing to sell my Feb. 2011 macbook pro. I had yosemite installed on it, but cleared the hard drive. When I try to install the OS for the buyer, it prompts me to enter my Apple ID and I don't want it to be tied to my account. It looks like my computer originally came with Snow Leopard, but I don't have the disc anymore. I'm also don't think my disc drive works anymore. Is there any way for me to install snow leopard for the buyer so they can then upgrade it? Would it be easier to just leave this to the buyer? Thanks!

MacBook Pro (13-inch Early 2011)

Posted on Sep 30, 2015 12:39 PM

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Answer 1

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a brody

Level 10

82,941 points

Oct 3, 2015 7:16 AM in response to cgbroncos113

You can install from another Mac:

Using Target Disk Mode to install an operating system

You can also install it with an external optical drive.

I do recommend though before selling the Mac to ensure the optical drive is working and that the PRAM battery is up to date.

Sometimes the latter will fix the former.

Call AppleCare for replacement original discs. Give them your serial number.

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Answer 2

Limnos

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411,193 points

Oct 3, 2015 7:17 AM in response to a brody

From looking on the EveryMac.com web site I don't see anything about this model notebook having a PRAM battery.

cgbroncos113: Getting the optical drive repaired is kind of up to you. If you decide not to then you need to make it clear to the purchaser the drive does not function (you should, of course, double check first that it really does not), and adjust for that in the price. External optical drives are sometimes cheaper than replacement unless you are able to undertake this yourself. Many people are also finding they really don't need an optical drive that frequently, are replacing them with SSD anyway and going with an external optical drive for occasional use.

You will need to call Apple about the replacement discs. Your model came with a OSX 10.6.6 so the standard retail 10.6.3 disc will not work.

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Answer 3

cgbroncos113 Author

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Oct 3, 2015 7:18 AM in response to a brody

Thanks for the advice! It looks like the drive is working, it just has problems ejecting disk and will only eject when the computer is put on its side.

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Answer 4

cgbroncos113 Author

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Oct 3, 2015 7:19 AM in response to Limnos

Thanks for the information, especially about the replacement discs. I will certainly make sure to accurately list my computer and fully describe any parts that aren't working 100% properly.

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Answer 5

Eric Root

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684,039 points

Oct 3, 2015 7:47 AM in response to cgbroncos113

Selling old Mac (4) Apple support

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