2009 mac mini new HD - how to install OS?

[Dan666]

hi all,
I have a late 2009 mac mini into which I have put a new hard drive, from a macbook pro.
When I start it up with command option R I can go through the restore process, but when I insert my apple ID username and password it says that it cannot install, please try again later...

I know it is not compatible with high sierra, but how can I make it work again, then?

Does anyone knows how to fix it?

Thanks in advance,
Danilo

 

[Audit13]

I suggest using another Mac to create an El Capitan usb installer to load a fresh os.

 

[Mr_Brightside_@]

I suggest using another Mac to create an El Capitan usb installer to load a fresh os.

Beat me to the punch, nice to see another Torontonian here

 

[Dan666]

unluckily I don't have access to another mac...

 

[Mr_Brightside_@]

What happened to the mini's old HD?

 

[Dan666]

well I guess I could reinstall the old disk and somewhat create a bootable usb from there? i had an old version of mac. os x though on it, Mavericks IIRC. can it be of any help? I'd rather not dismantle it again to get in the old disk, and then again to get the new one though...

I've tried downloading el captain and creating a bootable usb stick from linux, but it doesn't boot in startup manager mode...

I remember that was the way I installed mavericks on the mini when I got it (second hand)

ah the old disk was working fine, I've just received this (used) SSD and I thought it would be nice to have a faster HD

 

[Mr_Brightside_@]

Get a 2.5" enclosure for the old disk, boot off it, then download and install EC onto the new internal disk. https://itunes.apple.com/app/os-x-el-capitan/id1147835434?mt=12

 

[Dan666]

ah I didn't think about booting from the old hd via usb!

thanks I'll give it a go!

 

[Dan666]

well, it worked!
Thank you all for the support!