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Released April 2010 / 2.4, 2.53 GHz Core i5 or 2.66 GHz Core i7 Processors

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MBP can't access SSD when internal. Works via USB adapter

Hi all.

Installing a Crucial mx100 SSD into a 2010 Macbook Pro.

I installed MX100 on an external usb adapter, formatted it and restored an apple backup onto it.

If I boot onto that drive connected via the usb adapter everything works well.

If I then install that drive internally, and reboot, the ssd drive can not be seen and I get the question mark folder.

The guides here and elsewhere suggest the internal sata cable is suspect, so I bought one of those and installed it and the problem is the same.

I also have a second MBP that I installed this drive into internally and the problem is the same.

I updated the mx100 firmware to the latest and the problem is the same.

I spoke with Crucial support and they blame the sata cable, but I have already tried 3 of those.

Any suggestions on how to proceed? Try a 4th cable? How do I tell a good cable from a bad one? Or do I follow the pack and just try a different ssd?

Your help is appreciated

Pete

Update (10/23/2015)

Update: The problem was my mistake. The SSD was formatted with the windows format which worked via the usb cable, but not when installed internally. I reformatted the SSD using the Mac GUID format and it now works properly.

The cables were fine.

Pete

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

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Did you check the systems firmware? Follow this Apple T/N: About EFI and SMC firmware updates for Intel-based Mac computers. Also did you verify the Crucial MX100 firmware? Checkout this site: Crucial firmware updates

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Yes on the Crucial firmware, I updated to the latest. I'll look into the other item. Thanks

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Time for a new cable

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bought the 2012 cable this AM. I'll report back when it is in.

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Update, It looks like you were right. I installed the used cable and the SSD still does not work in the internal bay. I have ordered a new cable and will try that. Thanks for the info

Update (10/23/2015)

Update: The problem was my mistake. The SSD was formatted with the windows format which worked via the usb cable, but not when installed internally. I reformatted the SSD using the Mac GUID format and it now works properly.

The cables were fine.

Pete

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I had this same problem with my MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012). This is a known problem with the front hard drive bracket (FHB), otherwise known as the hard drive cable. On some later revisions made in late 2011, Apple started including a pad that would help prevent the cable from being crushed when pressure was applied to the back cover. My assumption is that the Mac is out of warranty, and if you want to go to the Apple Store and pay a gazillion dollars to get it fixed, go right ahead, but I would instead to the repair myself using this guide (MacBook Pro 15" Unibody Mid 2010 Hard Drive/IR Sensor Cable Replacement) and the FHB from iFixit ([linked product missing or disabled: IF161-061]). The cables are notorious for breaking easily, and I broke mine. It worked for about a week before going kaput.

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Is there an improved cable for the 2010 model? The ifixit part does not seem to indicate one way or another if it is the stock part. I'm 0/3 on cables so far and I'd like to get an improved cable if they exist.

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You may want to try the MacBook Pro Mid-2012 cable, which should include that pad that I mentioned.

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I looked into the details and it appears that the 2012 sata cable is wider and might be compatible. I ordered it up to test.

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Go with the 2012 15" hard drive/ir cable and make sure it is new.

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Yes. There were no new ones avail from ifixit, so I'm trying a used one and counting on their return policy if it doesn't help.

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Don't do that! Get a new one or you'll just inherit someone else bad cable. Here's where I buy mine: http://www.ebay.com/itm/111276735982

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