Unable to migrate files from Macbook with broken display

I have an old Macbook with a broken display and I am trying to get the files onto my new Macbook. I searched online and I read I could do it with a thunderbolt cable. So I bought the thunderbolt cable.

I have tried to restart the old Macbook by holding the "T" key down so it will start up in "Target Mode." However, it does not create an icon on the new Macbook's desktop like promised. I have also tried using the migration tool on the new Macbook and it just keeps searching.

I am not sure what version of OSX is on the old Macbook. It's been broken since 2012.

I don't have another display to hook the old Macbook up to.

What am I doing wrong and what can I try?

What you're trying to do is called "Target Disk Mode". Here's the official Apple document on the procedure:

https://support.apple.com/kb/PH19021?locale=en_US

- Nick

pigoo3 said:

What you're trying to do is called "Target Disk Mode". Here's the official Apple document on the procedure:

https://support.apple.com/kb/PH19021?locale=en_US

- Nick

Click to expand...

Yes, that is what I tried. Didn't work.

Since you mentioned having a "new MacBook". Here's a link from MacWorld that provides some info specifically targeted at new MacBooks:

http://www.macworld.com/article/291...-the-right-cable-which-apple-doesnt-sell.html

- Nick

It's not that new. I was just trying to distinguish the two from each other. It's about a year old. Unfortunately that article isn't helping but thanks for trying.

PleaseHelpMe216 said:

It's not that new. I was just trying to distinguish the two from each other. It's about a year old. Unfortunately that article isn't helping but thanks for trying.

Click to expand...

"New" MacBooks came out in 2015. Maybe what you REALLY have are two MacBook Pro's (a 2012 and a newer model). "MacBook" does not = MacBook Pro.

If this is the case. Follow the Apple procedure very very carefully. Sometimes it can be tricky.

Also (this is a long-shot). Maybe that cable is bad (shouldn't be since it's new…but you never know).

- Nick

Did you do it this way?

Never mind I see I am late to the game.