21.5” i5 4k retina iMac - wiped the 1 tb ssd for another iMac, then returned it to this one, getting the file folder with “?” In it. Won’t go into recovery mode, tried command r, command option r, command shift r, command option shift r, reset navram and PRAM, reset smc (I think anywsy, but either goes back to ?folder or doesn’t get past Apple logo (no load bar).
how can I force into recovery or internet recovery mode ?
iMac 21.5″ 4K, macOS 13.1
Try starting up in Internet Recovery Mode. Option-Command-R
Try starting up in Internet Recovery Mode. Option-Command-R
Your wireless keyboard is no longer paired at this point and will not work for recovery or other startup commands.
If you have newer rechargeable keyboard, plug it into the iMac using the supplied charging cable.
If you have an older battery powered keyboard, you will need to dig out, barrow, buy a USB keyboard.
Much appreciated, but I’m not using a wireless keyboard for that very reason. I’m using the macally Apple copycat keyboard thst is hardwired via usb. And I tried a windows keyboard , also wired, and a mechanical gaming keyboard, also wired, but I quickly discovered that the startup chime comes right before the gaming keyboard powers on, so That window is gone before it opens. I cannot get it to boot in ANY mode after having tried several other options today, but when I swap the hard drive back to the other mac and run first aid on it, all seems to be fine.
iMac i5 2017 won’t go into recovery mode.
