MacBook Core Duo HD Upgrade

[markthefart]

I am looking to get upgrade my 2006 black Core Duo MB HD and RAM (currently 1x2GB stick.. upgrading to 2x1GB sticks) to increase performance (as much as possible).. The HD currently installed is FUJITSU MHY2250BH (250 GB, 5200 RPM, 8 MB Cache)... I was interested in replacing that with WD VelociRaptor WD1500BLHX (150 GB, 10000 RPM, 32 MB Cache) or would like to hear what other options might be beneficial in this system to increase performance/speed. Would that WD drive be compatible or should I look at something else? Also, any suggestions for RAM configuration?? Is 2x1GB better than 1x2GB?

Thanks!

[Intell]

The WD drive would work, but they don't make good mobile drives. If you want speed, get a SSD. Even on the older SATA I bus that Macbook has, you'll notice a difference that no hard drive can match.

[markthefart]

Originally Posted by Intell

The WD drive would work, but they don't make good mobile drives. If you want speed, get a SSD. Even on the older SATA I bus that Macbook has, you'll notice a difference that no hard drive can match.

Thanks... Any suggestions for SSD drives between 160-250 GB ?

[Intell]

I suggest a Samsung model. They're some of the best out as of now.

[markthefart]

Originally Posted by Intell

I suggest a Samsung model. They're some of the best out as of now.

Thanks.. do you know if a Samsung 840 series (which is SATA III) would be compatible with this macbook's chipset? I think all SATA drives are backwards compatible - is that right?

[Intell]

A Samsung 840 would work very nicely. SATA is backwards compatible with all but the earliest SATA I chips. The G5's have some of those touchy chips that sometimes don't work with SATA III drives.

[gobigorange]

Originally Posted by Intell

The WD drive would work, but they don't make good mobile drives. If you want speed, get a SSD. Even on the older SATA I bus that Macbook has, you'll notice a difference that no hard drive can match.

Actually, the Velociraptor drives are desktop only drives. They will not work in a laptop (despite the fact that they are 2.5" form factor). They are thicker than a normal laptop drive and have higher power requirements.

Personally, I'd go with the Samsung SSD as Intell suggested. Hope this helps