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Mac Mini External SSD Booting Possible?

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Old 20 October 2014, 04:35 PM
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Cannon Fodder
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Default Mac Mini External SSD Booting Possible?

I've got a latest generation Mac Mini on the way but I didn't realise that you cannot add an extra internal SSD, so can I add an external SSD connected by Thunderbolt?

I'd like to re-use an existing SSD I have and get a caddy for it, these are readily available but can I get one which has a Thunderbolt connection?

Please no deriding comments I'm purely after information and not a bun fight.

Last edited by Cannon Fodder; 20 October 2014 at 04:43 PM.
Old 20 October 2014, 05:19 PM
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JackClark
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I'd move the SSD inside and keep the external one for slower stuff. But, yes you can, I ran Yosemite off USB for a few months. The last time I looked at Thunderbolt drives they were a bit pricey.
Old 20 October 2014, 05:24 PM
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jura11
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Hi Ty

Please have look on this

http://robinmonks.com/2013/10/speed-...-external-ssd/

Not sure if this does apply to new Mac Mini,but still think is possible

Thanks,Jura
Old 20 October 2014, 05:43 PM
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Cannon Fodder
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Originally Posted by JackClark
I'd move the SSD inside and keep the external one for slower stuff. But, yes you can, I ran Yosemite off USB for a few months. The last time I looked at Thunderbolt drives they were a bit pricey.
Unfortunately it's not possible to access the internal drive as there's no access door to the inner workings of the Mac.

Stupidly I didn't check the specs before ordering and just assumed it would be the same as the previous model.

Originally Posted by jura11
Hi Ty

Please have look on this

http://robinmonks.com/2013/10/speed-...-external-ssd/

Not sure if this does apply to new Mac Mini,but still think is possible

Thanks,Jura
Thanks Jura, I'll check that out.
Old 20 October 2014, 06:01 PM
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JackClark
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Originally Posted by Cannon Fodder
Unfortunately it's not possible to access the internal drive as there's no access door to the inner workings of the Mac.
Looks like you'll be able to upgrade the HD but will lose warranty for opening it up.

Jura's suggestion looks great, I'm going to do similar with a friends iMac.
Old 20 October 2014, 09:01 PM
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mike1210
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For building Macs quickly take a look at AutoDMG.

I can do a base build (just the OS) in around 4 mins.

http://coolestguidesontheplanet.com/...ks-boot-image/

Guide is for Mavericks but it now supports 10.10 and the process is the same.

https://github.com/MagerValp/AutoDMG



Edited 10.10 guide also now here

http://coolestguidesontheplanet.com/...using-autodmg/

Last edited by mike1210; 20 October 2014 at 09:05 PM.
Old 21 October 2014, 08:47 AM
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JackClark
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Nice! Cheers.
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