cannot find an external cd drive under ventura 13.7.6

I have an external cd drive which I have not used for file transfers for a quite some time, all of which worked perfectly under an earlier version of Mac OS.


I am now on Ventura 13.7.6, and no longer found, let alone sown in sidebar of finder


(System finds SDHC card reader satisfactorily, and read/writes).

MacBook Pro 13″

Posted on Jul 25, 2025 2:51 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 25, 2025 3:15 PM

If an Apple SuperDrive, know that this particular device really doesn't like to be connected to a dock or hub. It may only work if connected directly to the Mac. Use a USB-A to USB-C plug adapter or cable adapter if necessary.


Remember that the empty drive will not be recognized by the Finder. Only after you have inserted an optical disc will that be displayed on the desktop or in the Finder sidebar.


Also, check Finder > Settings and make sure that Show CDs, DVDs and iPods (or iOS Devices) is enabled.


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 25, 2025 3:15 PM in response to terry_nyorks_01

If an Apple SuperDrive, know that this particular device really doesn't like to be connected to a dock or hub. It may only work if connected directly to the Mac. Use a USB-A to USB-C plug adapter or cable adapter if necessary.


Remember that the empty drive will not be recognized by the Finder. Only after you have inserted an optical disc will that be displayed on the desktop or in the Finder sidebar.


Also, check Finder > Settings and make sure that Show CDs, DVDs and iPods (or iOS Devices) is enabled.


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

cannot find an external cd drive under ventura 13.7.6

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.