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SSD install in iMac; SSD is not always recognised.

I installed a Samsung 850 EVO drive into my late 2012, 21.5" iMac to replace the internal drive. Sometimes when I boot the iMac the drive is not recognised- strangely though, sometimes it is. It seems to be roughly 50/50. Is this a loose connection somewhere, or perhaps I just need to reset some things in the OS / software like PRAM? NOTE: I have now tried resetting PRAM and it has had no effect.

Often when booting a prohibitory sign is displayed (circle with a line going through it diagonally) or a folder with a question mark.

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Check your System Preferences settings. You want to make sure the Startup disk is set for your SSD. That should fix it.

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14 Comments:

You still have to fix your systems SMC services. Unlike a HD the SSD does not have a built-in thermal sensor so the SMC will crank up the fans RPM. There are long term issues here either the fan will burnout from running at the high speed (plus the noise) or you will shorten the systems lifespan (plus loose some performance). While I fully understand the urge to upgrade this systems HD, Ideally you should put in the custom Apple M.2 SSD blade drive and leave the HD in.

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Sorry, the hasn't worked. Any other advice?

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Here is a list of my past reboots (just done these)

1

0

1

1

1

0

0

1

1

0

0

1

0

0

1

1

1

1

0

1

0

1

1

a 1 represents a success, a 0 represents a failure (always goes to question mark on a folder icon)

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Hate to ask what happens when you put back the HD is it reacting in the same way? If its OK, then the SSD may be bad,

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I still think you're better off getting the M.2 Blade SSD in the long haul. I've seen a few being sold (granted they are asking a premium for them).

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Reinstall OS X. That should fix this issue if you do not have loose connection.

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