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I have not had to boot into recovery mode on a desktop computer on Apple Silicon before. On a laptop it's easy. I just hold the start button tell the screen says Loading Startup Options.
What happens on a mini? You hold the power button, but the screen doesn't seem to be active. How long do you hold it? If I release it at the bong I get start up and not recovery.
Any guidance would be really appreciated.
Thanks very much.
Tom Wolsky wrote:
Thank you showing me the Apple directions.
You're welcome.
Some things are different. First, the keyboard is not lit so it never goes dark when I shut down. The only way I can tell I think is that the light on the minigoes out. Do I release it then? The screen is black, but it's still active. Then the screen gets the connection was lost. Now I guess the system has shut down.
Good point. Light off on the previous model Mac mini, Mac Studio and Mac Pro ment that it was Shut Down.
Mac computer status indicator light behavior - Apple Support
Looks like that article needs some updating.
I hold the power button underneath the mini and wait, and wait, and wait, and wait, and then the screen comes up with Options.
From the Option Screen you should be able to click Continue.
This is way longer than on an MBP. I'm guessing because I'm waiting for the screen. I never see the Apple. I never see Continue to Hold for Startup Options. I guess the behavior is different on different systems.
I also agree that the behavior can and will very depending on the Display connection and the type of mouse used.
I would try getting into Recovery using an HDMI Display connected to the HDMI port and an aftermarket USB mouse plugged into the Mac mini using a USB-C to USB-A adapter.
Then if that doesn't work, I would give Apple Support a call. 1-800-MY-APPLE (800-692-7753)
Thank you showing me the Apple directions.
Some things are different. First, the keyboard is not lit so it never goes dark when I shut down. The only way I can tell I think is that the light on the minigoes out. Do I release it then? The screen is black, but it's still active. Then the screen gets the connection was lost. Now I guess the system has shut down.
I hold the power button underneath the mini and wait, and wait, and wait, and wait, and then the screen comes up with Options. This is way longer than on an MBP. I'm guessing because I'm waiting for the screen. I never see the Apple. I never see Continue to Hold for Startup Options. I guess the behavior is different on different systems.
Thank you very much for the excellent information. The mini is connected through HDMI, though not to an Apple display, an LG. Good idea about the mouse.
Thanks again.
You're welcome.
Yea' Wireless keyboards and mice are iffy for entering Startup Commands and Navigating Recovery Mode.
How do I boot into recovery mode on a Mac mini?
