Internal HD replacement for iBook 12"

[platipodium]

My harddrive failed with the often reported clicking noises. I was able to backup everything to my external 250 GB FW HD and install OSX on the external. However, booting in target mode and running OSX from the external drive is only a temporary solution.

Do you guys have a recommendation for a replacement internal HD. My preference is rather for low noise/low power consumption than for speed. What size would you suggest (keeping in mind that I have 250 GB external and 40 GB iPod storage available and use the iBook for travelling)

Many thanx for your rec's

 

[Hydra]

Some 40GB-80GB 5400rpm drive.

 

[platipodium]

Are there any specific models you can recommend? Do all 2.5" internal HDs fit into the iBook?

 

[Sutekidane]

Ok, any 2.5" 9.5MM high IDE Hard drive should work fine. With brands, they're pretty much all the same, so you don't need to be too picky. Try to aim for a 5400 or even 7200rpm drive if you want to see a performance boost. With HD prices for notebooks, I probably wouldn't go under 60GB.

With noise, they're pretty much all the same as well, except for the Seagate drives. Just got a 100gb one in my powerbook, and it is noisy. So, try to look for Toshiba, Fujitsu, and maybe Hitachi (I've had bad luck with Hitachi's)

 

[eleveneastgate]

Check this link

 

[EGT]

This site has lots of info about replacing the powerbook hard drives. Haven't seen much about the iBook but i haven't looked around.

Linky

 

[madmaxmedia]

The iBook is supposedly a nightmare to get to the HD. Search around and you will find some good directions though, with photos. IIRC, it involves maybe 20 screws before you get to the HD...But still doable, just takes time.

Newegg.com has pretty good prices on notebook drives, they have a full selection with some 7200 RPM drives as well.

At least the positive thing is that you will notice your iBook is faster after the new HD. I think most all iBooks come with a 4200 RPM HD.

 

[Mechcozmo]

Is it still under AppleCare?

If it is, don't crack it open. Just let them deal with it.

Otherwise, any 2.5" 9.5mm ATA drive will fit.

WARNING: iBooks are hell to open up and replace their hard drives. Be careful!

 

[platipodium]

Opening the iBook no worries

Thanks for your input. I'll get a 60 Gig then. Due to the screen flickering / reed switch problem I already now how to get to iBook's internals. No pain, just very time-consuming. I found the hardest part is to not tear the aluminum foil shielding that sticks around the edges of the inner case.

Also, write down the positions each screw. I did exactly that and nonetheless ended up with one leftover screw ... With iBook in workable condition I'm just waiting to get an iMac G5 once the newer model comes out.

 

[mad jew]

You're a braver man than me platipodium. I couldn't be bothered with the hassle of opening up my iBook so I just sent it on its happy way down to the local Apple reseller who gladly changed it over to a 4200rpm 80 gig for me with a pretty minimal labour charge (under 10% from memory).