Can't downgrade from El Capitan to Snow Leopard

[E1326]

I want to install OS Snow Leopard on my iMac that currently runs OS el Capitan.


I've tried with an original DVD installer Snow Leopard from another iMac (mid 2007) and I can't start up from my disk. I've made a bootable USB key from my DVD and it didn't work either.


I originally wanted to transfer my data from my old iMac by Time Machine to El Capitan but it doesn't work so I've decided to try to downgrade, transfer my data and the upgrade to El Capitan.


My iMac Specs


OS El Capitan version 10.11.6

21.5 inch, Late 2009

Processor 3.06 GHx Intel Core 2 duo

Memory 12 GB


Can someone help me please


Thanks

 

[CoastalOR]

I want to install OS Snow Leopard on my iMac that currently runs OS el Capitan.

I've tried with an original DVD installer Snow Leopard from another iMac (mid 2007) and I can't start up from my disk. I've made a bootable USB key from my DVD and it didn't work either.

I originally wanted to transfer my data from my old iMac by Time Machine to El Capitan but it doesn't work so I've decided to try to downgrade, transfer my data and the upgrade to El Capitan.

My iMac Specs
OS El Capitan version 10.11.6
21.5 inch, Late 2009
Processor 3.06 GHx Intel Core 2 duo
Memory 12 GB

Can someone help me please

The installer DVD for a 2007 iMac would be Leopard (10.5) which is too old for your 21.5 inch, Late 2009 iMac. The minimum OS for your 2009 iMac is Snow Leopard 10.6.1.

You need to buy the retail Snow Leopard DVD:
https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MC573Z/A/mac-os-x-106-snow-leopard

EDIT: Or use the installer DVD that shipped with your 2009 iMac.

 

[E1326]

The installer DVD for a 2007 iMac would be Leopard (10.5) which is too old for your 21.5 inch, Late 2009 iMac. The minimum OS for your 2009 iMac is Snow Leopard 10.6.1.

You need to buy the retail Snow Leopard DVD:
https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MC573Z/A/mac-os-x-106-snow-leopard

EDIT: Or use the installer DVD that shipped with your 2009 iMac.

My installer DVD version is 10.6.3 and I don't have any DVD installer form my newer iMac

 

[MBAir2010]

i can lend a copy of an extra USB of snow leopard if you need one

 

[E1326]

i can lend a copy of an extra USB of snow leopard if you need one

Hi, that would be great but how can we make it happen

 

[MBAir2010]

try this first http://osxdaily.com/2014/12/14/reinstall-os-x-mac-internet-recovery/
I can mail a return env. with the USB drive, i just need that back

 

[E1326]

I'll check your link and get back to you if needed

Thank you

 

[chrfr]

try this first http://osxdaily.com/2014/12/14/reinstall-os-x-mac-internet-recovery/
I can mail a return env. with the USB drive, i just need that back

2009 Macs do not support Internet Recovery.

 

[E1326]

Just realized that..

 

[chrfr]

I'll check your link and get back to you if needed

Thank you

Snow Leopard isn't free software, so getting an installer from someone else constitutes piracy. You can get it here from Apple directly. https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MC573Z/A/mac-os-x-106-snow-leopard
If the installer disc you have is white, it's the same thing that Apple's selling. If it's gray, it won't run on your model Mac if it's intended for another Mac. Apple puts in a block for that.