Resolving the 'AppleNVMe Assert Failed' Error During Hackintosh Installation

Encountering an "AppleNVMe Assert Failed" error typically indicates an issue with NVMe drives or related configurations in your EFI. This guide will walk you through resolving this specific issue during your Hackintosh installation.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1. EFI Folder Verification:

   • Ensure your EFI folder structure is correct and contains only necessary files. Remove any unrelated or unnecessary files that might cause conflicts.

2. NVMeFix.kext:

   • If you're using an NVMe SSD, make sure you have the NVMeFix.kext in your EFI's kexts folder. This kext helps to improve NVMe SSD compatibility with macOS.

3. BIOS Settings:

   • Access your BIOS and confirm that the settings for your NVMe drive are correctly configured. AHCI mode should be enabled for SATA operation if applicable.

4. EFI Drivers:

   • Verify that you have the correct UEFI drivers in your EFI folder. The NvmExpressDxe driver can sometimes help with NVMe issues if your firmware does not natively support NVMe.

5. config.plist Check:

   • Open your config.plist file in a proper plist editor and verify the settings under the NVRAM section are correct. Remove any unnecessary NVRAM arguments that could be conflicting with NVMe operation.

6. Boot Args:

   • Add the boot argument nvme=-1 to disable the native NVMe driver in macOS if you are having compatibility issues. This can sometimes resolve the assertion failure.

7. Update Kexts and Firmware:

   • Update all your kexts to the latest versions available, especially any that relate to SSD operation.
   • Check for firmware updates for your NVMe drive from the manufacturer's website.

8. Use a Different SATA/NVMe Port:

   • If possible, try using a different SATA or NVMe port on your motherboard. Some ports may have better compatibility or different settings in BIOS that can affect operation.

9. OC Configurator Check:

   • Use OpenCore Configurator to double-check your config.plist settings. Ensure that you're not using any deprecated keys and that all settings are appropriate for your hardware.

10. Fallback to SATA SSD:

    • If the problem persists and is preventing installation, consider using a SATA SSD to install macOS and troubleshoot NVMe issues post-installation.

11. Dortania's OpenCore Guide:

    • Refer to Dortania's OpenCore Install Guide for a comprehensive, hardware-specific installation guide. It's a highly recommended resource for troubleshooting Hackintosh issues.

12. Seek Community Help:

    • If you continue to encounter issues, seek out assistance from Hackintosh communities, providing them with your hardware details and the steps you've already taken.

Conclusion: The "AppleNVMe Assert Failed" error can be a stumbling block, but with careful troubleshooting and the correct configuration, it can be resolved. Patience and attention to detail are key in the Hackintosh journey. Remember, the process can vary greatly depending on individual hardware and software combinations.