USB problem/Thunderbolt on Mac mini M4

I am experiencing the same issue with my T4 SSD hub. I have attempted connecting it using three different T4 cables, but I am unable to establish a connection via the rear USB ports. The LED on the hub blinks continuously. However, when I connect it via the front ports, the LED lights up solidly. Consequently, I am unable to achieve the optimal performance of my Mac’s T4 speed.

I know we’re talking about the Mini here, but curious if anyone has heard of similar issues with the m4 iMac and USB 3.2 devices (I have not heard anything). I’m just guessing the TB port controllers are the same on both machines.

Trying to decide being the two machines, it’s $600 more for the iMac. In both cases, the CalDigit TS4 dock I own would be used for all USB 3 device connections.

Update 2 - after replacing both cables with short, direct connectors….. I thought I nailed it but I was wrong. The SSD TimeMachine drive still threw Illegal Dismount Errors. The USB drive with a hard disk however, didn't. I think it has to do with the SSD drive getting it's power through the USB-C Port. I have moved the SSD connection to the front of the Mini M4 and haven't seen a Dismount Error since. I ordered 2 right angle connectors so I can route the cable along the side of the Mini, otherwise it looks dorky to have a cable poking out the front.

I agree. It's a pet peeve of mine to have cables sticking out the front. I hope at some point this is resolved...

I bought this to help and got one before they sold out:

https://satechi.net/products/mac-mini-m4-stand-hub-with-ssd-enclosure

(I can use my USB-A keyboard without a converter, but still the cables are coming out the front...) Yes, first world issues, but something is wrong and Apple is not taking notice.

Same here. Apple Keyboard is absolutely not working when connected to an external, usb-c sceen’s dock. Works intermittently when connected to some ports on a usb-c dock.

Absolutely unacceptable for such a pricy device with not a singe usb-a port.

I think you've hit the nail on the head here. It has to be the adapters. I bought a whole bunch of them off Amazon. I should've been more discriminating. I will remedy that now.

Looks like your mind’s already made up, so much for “30 years of troubleshooting” 😂

Anyways, vent here Feedback - Mac mini - Apple, might help. All the best!

Definitely not a cabling issues, it is the Mac Mini. I used the link to submit a bug report.

see my previous post for link to Mac World article.

I would post a fresh discussion IIWY. Lumping all problems to one discussion that fits the title but little else is the surest way of converting it to lala-endless.

No thank you to MacWorld, Rumors, Reddit etc Apple trolls publishing junk. Have fun nevertheless! Grabbing popcorn…

The main value of the article is confirmation that more that four of us are having issues in the regard :)

That’s value to the four of you, agreed 😁