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ChristianZhao's avatar
ChristianZhao
Iron Contributor
Jan 14, 2025

How Can I Create bootable usb install for macbook pro 2012 on a PC?

Hi all, I bought a refurbished MacBook Pro 2012 without OS on it. It is very old and unable to use the Internet recovery for reinstalling macOS. How can I create bootable usb install for Macbook Pro...
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Hannaness's avatar
Hannaness
Iron Contributor
Jan 14, 2025

Are you going to create bootable usb install for macbook pro 2012 on a PC? Okay, here's a summary and additional tips to ensure a successful process:

  • Set Up Virtual Machine: Install the virtual machine software and create a new VM, allocating sufficient resources (CPU, RAM, disk space). Follow any specific instructions needed for running macOS on that VM.
  • Format USB Drive: Connect your USB drive to your PC and make sure to back up any important data on it, as it will be formatted.
  • Use macOS Tools: Once macOS is running in the virtual machine, use the built-in terminal and disk utilities to format the USB drive as Mac OS Extended (Journaled) and create the bootable USB installer using the createinstallmedia command.
  • Final Steps: After the process is complete, eject the USB drive safely from the VM, and it should be ready for use on your MacBook Pro.

Additional Tips

  • Performance: Ensure your PC has enough RAM and a decent CPU to run the VM efficiently.
  • Safety: Always double-check the integrity of the macOS High Sierra image to avoid installation issues.
  • Compatibility: Make sure the version of macOS you are using in your virtual machine is compatible with your hardware.

By following these guidelines, you should be able to create bootable usb install for Macbook Pro on your PC effectively.

  • SamuelSamson's avatar
    SamuelSamson
    Iron Contributor
    Jan 14, 2025

    Haha, this method looks complicated, especially when you need to use a virtual machine. I have tried to use a virtual machine to run macOS on Windows to create a bootable USB install for MacBook Pro 2012, but to be honest, it is very laborious and prone to various problems, such as freezing or incompatible image files.

    Later, I used ultradmg directly, which is simple and crude, and much faster to operate than a virtual machine:

    1. Download the image of macOS Sierra.
    2. Use ultradmg to write the image to USB, and it's done in a few steps.

    There is no need to mess with a virtual machine. Using the tool directly is more efficient and more friendly to older MacBooks. What do you think? 😊

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