How to Remove a Fusion Drive
How can I remove the Fusion Drive (SSD&HDD) from my Mac Mini (late 2012), to then install one or two SSDs?
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Yes, however it does not address how to remove Fusion's SSD.
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The very first thing here is to make a bootable OS installer USB drive. Follow this guide: How to create a bootable macOS Sierra installer drive as it will make the job easier. But we have a small problem Apples certificates expired so you’ll need a new image file get it here How to upgrade to macOS Sierra jump down to Step 4. Here’s a bit more on this f you've got an old macOS install image, it will probably stop working today
Before you alter things you do what to break the fusion drive set Split Your Fusion Drive Apart as the systems firmware needs to understand you don’t want to create a Fusion Drive afterwards.
Once you have that done you can then take both drives out following Mac mini Late 2012 Hard Drive Replacement. You also have a second drive (SSD) which is just below it following this guide from Step 19 Installing Mac Mini Late 2012 Dual Hard Drive Kit so you can take the second drive drive out.
Mount your replacement drives and then with your USB plugged in you should be able to see and format both drives to GUID Journals file system (HFS+)
OK, But, I want a newer version of macOS. Why are you having me start here. Often times I find this works better as your systems firmware needs to be updated to support APFS file system. I don’t recommend going to High Sierra, instead go directly to Mojave from the OS updater How to upgrade to macOS Mojave
Guide
Installing Mac Mini Late 2012 Dual Hard Drive Kit
Difficulty:
Moderate
—
1 - 2 hours
Guide
Mac mini Late 2012 Hard Drive Replacement
Difficulty:
Moderate
—
30 - 45 minutes
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Thank-you. However, my Mac Mini's system report states, that Fusion's SSD is neither "Removable Media" nor a " Detachable Drive."
I'm not sure I follow you?
Your internal drives are exactly that! Not removable media (CD or DVD) nor are they detachable (USB, FireWire or Thunderbolt drives which are connected externally).
