Dump the USB Device Tree with system_profiler

Scriptable System Information: every USB device, hub, speed, and power draw in JSON.

macOShardwareusbDiagnosticssystem_profilerLow risk

Run `system_profiler SPUSBDataType` for a readable tree or add `-json` to pipe it into jq for scripting.

01Command

Command

$ system_profiler SPUSBDataType -json | jq

02What it does

system_profiler has a dedicated data type for every hardware domain: SPUSBDataType, SPThunderboltDataType, SPNVMeDataType, SPAudioDataType and more. The JSON output includes product IDs, negotiated speeds, and how much current each port supplies — perfect for diagnosing a drive that won't enumerate. Use -detailLevel mini for speed when you only need names, or pass a second query like `system_profiler SPUSBDataType SPAudioDataType`.

03Risk

RiskLow risk

04Undo

✓No undo needed — this command does not change persistent state.

05Sources

macOS system_profiler — report system hardware and software configuration
SS64 · technical · 2026-09-17
Evidence: Documents system_profiler's SP*DataType reports and the -json/-detailLevel options.

Last verified: 2026-09-17 · Category: System & Settings

06Related solutions

Rebuild the Spotlight index on Mac

macOSTerminalDiagnostics

Erase the broken Spotlight database so macOS re-indexes your drive from scratch.

Medium risk ✓ 2026-09-16

Find your Mac's serial number from the Terminal

macOSDiagnostics

Read the serial number, model identifier and chip without opening About This Mac.

Low risk ✓ 2026-09-16

Check your MacBook's battery cycle count

macOSPower & SleepDiagnostics

See how many charge cycles the battery has used and its health condition.

Low risk ✓ 2026-09-16