Replacing Hard Drive 27" 2009 iMac

chostwales said:

Hi All,

As the subject suggests, we have an iMac 27" (2009 spec)

We wish to replace the hard drive to something like an SSD. Is it possible to do this? i.e how do we access the hard drive compartment?

Any links to youtube videos or tutorials would be of great assistance.
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Click to expand...

Ifixit.com has videos for repairing most Macs:
https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/iMac+Intel+27-Inch+EMC+2309+and+2374+Hard+Drive+Replacement/1634

DeltaMac said:

Ifixit.com has videos for repairing most Macs:
https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/iMac+Intel+27-Inch+EMC+2309+and+2374+Hard+Drive+Replacement/1634

Click to expand...

+1.

SSD upgrade on that computer is a no-brainer, and well worth it.

Just make sure you research the Temperature sensor issue before you do it.
Starting with 2009 Apple replaced the external temp sensor (attached to the HDD with sticky tape) with an internal sensor in the HDD.

If you replace the disk with a non compatible one your fan's will speed up to maximum rpm.

Choices:
- get compatible disk (OWC seams to know more about it - give them a call)
- Replace internal DVD drive with SSD (OWC data doubler) + leave HDD as is
- Get an external Temp sensor from OWC and plug it in the motherboard.
- Use software to override spinning fans.


Disk or SSD only needs to be 3G or SATA 2 - because your iMac only supports that speed.
Some Sata 3 SSD's give problems with Sata 2 iMac's.