Can we skip usb mapping before installation?

Guide: USB Mapping Before or After macOS Installation

Target Audience: Hackintosh Beginners and Intermediate Users

Objective:

Clarify the necessity and timing of USB port mapping in the Hackintosh installation process.

USB Mapping Overview:

USB mapping is the process of identifying and configuring the USB ports on your Hackintosh to ensure they work correctly with macOS. It's an important step because macOS has a limit on the number of USB ports it can recognize, and unmapped ports can lead to issues like ports not functioning or sleep/wake problems.

Can USB Mapping Be Skipped Before Installation?

1. Initial Installation:

   • For the initial installation of macOS on a Hackintosh, USB mapping is not strictly necessary.
   • macOS installation can usually proceed with a generic USBInjectAll.kext, which enables all ports temporarily.

2. Post-Installation:

   • After installing macOS, you should perform USB mapping as a part of your post-installation process.
   • Proper mapping ensures that all ports function within macOS’s limits and can prevent potential issues with system updates.

Steps for Post-Installation USB Mapping:

1. Use USBInjectAll.kext:

   • Initially, use USBInjectAll.kext to make all ports active.
   • This kext is a stop-gap solution and should not be used long-term.

2. Monitor Port Usage:

   • Utilize tools like Hackintool to identify which ports are active and map them according to the layout of your motherboard.

3. Create a Custom SSDT or Kext:

   • Based on the information gathered, create a custom SSDT (ACPI file) or USB map kext to enable only the ports you need.

4. Test Your Mapping:

   • Ensure that devices plugged into each mapped port are recognized and function correctly.

5. Finalize and Clean Up:

   • Remove USBInjectAll.kext if it’s no longer needed and replace it with your custom mapping.

Feedback and Support:

• If you encounter issues during installation related to USB, consider basic mapping to troubleshoot.
• Seek advice on Hackintosh forums if specific ports are not working post-installation.

Reminder:

• Keep a backup of your working EFI folder before attempting USB mapping.
• Not all systems will require custom USB mapping, but it's recommended for long-term stability.

While USB mapping can often be postponed until after macOS is installed, it's a crucial step to ensure all your USB devices work correctly and reliably. Additionally, mapped USB ports can help avoid issues with power management and device charging.