Update:
It’s been a journey
If anyone else comes across the same problem, a cheap keyboard from Amazon does the trick, although you still have to unplug and replug it every time the computer sleeps. (This fix will *not* necessarily work for the Apple keyboard).
Apple is going to let me return the Mac mini because of some holiday extension. Unfortunately, I’m getting on a plane soon, so things are rushed. I wanted to confirm that Apple is aware of this issue with Mac silicon but has no fix, but was not willing to be transferred to another person to get that answer. I’m just thrilled that I can do a return.
Bought a ThinkPad that is older than my last Mac(!) and it’s working great.
It’ll be nice to have a working machine after the return to print boarding passes and such, and I won’t have to use the wife’s computer.
Next challenge is to copy the whole computer without using Time Machine (Apple’s proprietary backup).
I think
EXFAT is the way to go for the file format.
I’m also burning data DVDs and Bluray discs which is cumbersome, but they seem to be universally read by Macs and PCs.
Then it’s down to wipe & ship. Reset the Mac, pack and FedEx.
Like Vinny, I still love iPads. I’m typing this on one now.
Will probably buy a nice desktop PC that will power my glorious new monitor next year.
I would also like to buy an old monitor that works with my old Mac mini. That machine is fine and runs High Sierra OS. (Its monitor died).
