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Mid 2012 model, A1278 / 2.5 GHz i5 or 2.9 GHz i7 processor.

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Install OS on new hard drive

So, my wife's 2012 13" macbook pro has been on the auto update schedule with Mac and is currently running High Sierra. She has 4 gig ram and and a 500 gig mechanical hard drive and the thing is struggling.

I've ordered a 250 gig SSD from OWC and a ram upgrade, too (2x8 GB). I've done other similar upgrades and repairs to macbooks before so I'm not worried about the mechanical aspects. I'm hoping to get some advice on reloading the OS. Should I create a bootable disc? If so, what's the best way? Should I take it to the genius bar and have them load High Sierra? Or should I go back an OS or two to Sierra or El Capitan?

Thoughts?

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

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In addition to what orgs said:

I recommend putting the SSD in the machine so that you are certain out is formatted GUID. Do the RAM upgrade first and test that it works before proceeding to the HD upgrade. Closely examiner the HD/IR cable where it climbs over the last step and see if it has any indentations in it. I put pads on either side of this cable to prevent the bottom from coming into contact with it. A damaged one can cause your current symptoms.

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When you say "where it climbs over the last step" where exactly do you mean?

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See step #10 of this guide. It's that top ledge: MacBook Pro 13" Unibody Mid 2012 Hard Drive Cable Replacement

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Thanks for the clarification on the hd/ir cable. Checked it out and all looks good.

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High Sierra is stable enough this days sow no worries there.

For the installation all you need except the screwdriver is a SATA to USB adapter for the new ssd.

Start the MacBook, connect and initialize the ssd , download High Sierra from the AppStore and click install.

Follow the instructions on the screen, when it asks for the destination drive pour to the ssd.

Once the installation is completed it will ask if you want to migrate data to you new drive and here you select the option: from a start up disk if you want the data from the old one

Or do not migrate data

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is it possible to do a usb to usb connection from another macbook to download and initialize the ssd? if I put it in the mac pro, then usb from my macbook, can i select the new ssd in the mac pro via the usb connection?

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The usb to usb is not possible but you have thunderbolt connection.

You can put your mac in target mode

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Bradley Kelley will be eternally grateful.
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