Mac mini M2 is unable to detect one of the external SSD drives

Question

Level 1

4 points

Mac mini M2 is unable to detect one of the external SSD drives

I have a Mac mini M2 (2023) that can no longer find one of my external SSD drives that are plugged in. I have tried changing the cable, plugging it into a different port, etc. I have also tried plugging it into my wife's MacBook Pro and it works. I really don't understand what's wrong.

However, I have noticed that on several occasions when I wake the computer from sleep, a warning box appears saying that the hard drive was ejected incorrectly. I have read around some forums and it seems that several people have experienced this. Could this be a cause?

After some advice, I set the computer not to go to sleep at all if the screen turns off to avoid this warning box to appear and to avoid damaging the hard drive.

If it had been that all 3 of my external SSD drives had not been found, it would have been logical, now only 1 of the 3 is malfunctioning.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Mac mini, macOS 15.3

Posted on Apr 13, 2025 11:31 PM

Reply

Answer 1

rkaufmann87

Level 10

148,062 points

Apr 13, 2025 11:44 PM in response to Gusten84

First try restarting the computer in Safe Mode using a wired USB keyboard. Also ensure ALL external wired peripherals (External Hard Disks, printers, scanners etc...) are unplugged. Then plug in the SSD in question and test. If the problem persists please do the following:

It will help us get a good idea of what is causing your problem if you provide a report of your system, that way we do not have to play 20 questions with you. The report we are requesting does NOT provide any personal information and is extremely safe to use. Please navigate towww.Etrecheck.com and download the free version of EtreCheck. Once you have you downloaded the app and installed it, please run the report and save it. This report will help us get a good idea what has been installed on your system and help us be able to diagnose what may be wrong.

When you have your report, you can attach it when you reply to this message and we can then review it and help you determine what is needed to get your system running well again.

For instructions on how to download your EtreCheck report and attach it to your reply to this message please click How to use the Add Text Feature When Post… - Apple Community It is helpful to us if you download the report to your Desktop.

Reply

Answer 2

Gusten84 Author

Level 1

4 points

Apr 13, 2025 11:56 PM in response to Gusten84

Thank you. I will try this and get back.

Reply

Mac mini M2 is unable to detect one of the external SSD drives

Similar questions