iMac upgrades

[jc244]

Hey everybody. I was considering buying an iMac 27" and was seeking some information about some upgrades.

Is the RAM upgrade a standard upgrade? Just open up the system and put in the new RAM?

I'm aware there are some kits that will help you put a second drive, but is the original hard drive also replaceable? Did the iMac have a removable optical device? Is there an option to add even a third drive?

In the future, will I be able to upgrade my processor quite simply?

Thanks.

 

[SR20DETDOG]

Hey everybody. I was considering buying an iMac 27" and was seeking some information about some upgrades.

Is the RAM upgrade a standard upgrade? Just open up the system and put in the new RAM?

Yep, all iMacs come standard with 2 x 2GB RAM with space for another two sticks. These are easily upgraded by removing a small cover at the bottom of the iMac. It's also the only upgrade that doesn't involve removing the front glass and display. Maximum RAM is 32GB, 4 x 8GB sticks.

I'm aware there are some kits that will help you put a second drive, but is the original hard drive also replaceable? Did the iMac have a removable optical device? Is there an option to add even a third drive?

The original HDD is replaceable but there are issues with the temperature sensor not working causing the fans to run at 100%. There are ways to get around this though.

All iMacs have space for a 3.5" HDD and a 2.5" HDD (usually SSD, you will have to buy connections for this if you didn't get an SSD from factory)

And yes the optical drive can then be removed to put in a third HDD.

In the future, will I be able to upgrade my processor quite simply?

Thanks.

I could be wrong, but I believe the highest processor you can install in the iMac is the 3.5Ghz I7-2700K.

RAM is considered the only user serviceable part in iMacs, but if you're willing to dig around inside most components can be upgraded somewhat.

 

[jc244]

Hi. Thanks for the reply, I appreciated your detailed answers.

 

[rkaufmann87]

Hi. Thanks for the reply, I appreciated your detailed answers.

BTW if you want to see a video on how easy it is to install please click:

http://eshop.macsales.com/installvideos/imac_mid_2011_mem_m/

 

[GR33NIE]

I'd go down the SSD route if you are looking @ a new drive and then buy some additional external storage. Meant to be a fantastic upgrade

 

[SR20DETDOG]

Hi. Thanks for the reply, I appreciated your detailed answers.

No problem mate, glad I could help out

 

[kennyap]

I could be wrong, but I believe the highest processor you can install in the iMac is the 3.5Ghz I7-2700K.

This is the highest processor without encountering major problems; I installed one of these and couldn't be happier, the only drawback is the inability to install Mountain Lion, which is not supported (yet).