Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

HELP - problems wiping my mac and re-installing OS

Hi All,


Would really appreciate some help.


I bought a second hand mac that had not been reset. I followed the instructions to wipe. I did the command + R. Erased the C disk using the disk tool (as per instructions). I then tried to re-install the OS and then I get the problem.


First of all it does the verification, i input my ID and password, all fine. It then says it needs to switch to UK store from US. It just goes back to the install screen. (I'm assuming at this point it has switched stores).


I then do it agin, put ID/Password again. It then simply shows the message 'this item is temporarily unavailable'


Reading around it would seem that this is an issue because my id would be different to the one that set it up (person i bought from is not too helpful).


So i think i need to reboot to a USB and clean the mac completely installing a new particion, and then running through the process internet free.


This mac was El Captain.

I have my original mac still (A mac mini) running yosemite.


Can anyone help me with next steps, i can't bring my mini to El captain as mac store won't let me install it (only older OS versions will allow). Can i just create a boot stick from Yosemite and do it that way.


Would really appreciate some help, thank you

Danny

PS> Nearest mac store is a plane ride away !!!

iMac

Posted on Mar 10, 2018 4:58 AM

Reply

Similar questions

1 reply

Mar 10, 2018 5:53 AM in response to DannyLooney

I bought a second hand mac

Please tell us what model (identifier, product order number, model year, cpu), so we can get an idea of what we’re dealing with.


All Mac Minis that can run Yosemite (models from 2009 or later), can also run El Capitan. All Mac Mini models 2010 or later can run the current version the OS.

How to download OS X El Capitan - Apple Support. OS X El Capitan remains available for Mac computers that can't upgrade to macOS High Sierra, or that need to upgrade to El Capitan first.


How to create a bootable installer for macOS - Apple Support

There is also a less technical app that will guide you in making a bootable USB flash drive installer: DiskMaker X.

HELP - problems wiping my mac and re-installing OS

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.