Replace mid-2011 bad dvd drive

[Minding]

Hi all,

My mid-2011 iMac DVD drive is kaputz. To avoid repair costs I was going to buy a SuperDrive but I read it can't be used if a system has an internal DVD drive. Is this correct and, if so, are there any alternatives?

Many thanks,
George

 

[Intell]

You want to purchase a USB SuperDrive to use with your iMac? It won't work by default, but there are ways around it.

 

[Minding]

I was hoping so. What might they be or where can I find them?

 

[Intell]

http://www.hardturm.ch/luz/2011/10/how-to-make-the-macbook-air-superdrive-work-with-any-mac/

 

[Minding]

Thanks. I'll take a look.

----------

This solution is somewhat unsatisfactory because it can require a new fix each time Apple updates iOS. As a default, it's good enough and I'm grateful to have this solution.

I was hoping for a permanent fix. Perhaps that can only come from Apple.

This all seems so silly when Apple could so easily allow SuperDrive to work.

George

 

[Minding]

Does anyone know if the iMac will recognize other vendors' DVD drives?

Georege

 

[Intell]

Other vendor's USB optical drives work without a problem with all USB equipped Macs.

 

[Minding]

My alternative ... which allowed me to install Windows and some other software without a DVD drive ... can be found at http://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203909

I did not use BootCamp, but adapted the process by creating an installation file that I transferred wirelessly to my iMac.

Kind regards,
George

 

[Fishrrman]

You don't need to buy an Apple-labeled external DVD drive.

Just about any DVD/CD/Bluray USB drive will work.

Considerably less expensive, as well.

 

[dogslobber]

You don't need to buy an Apple-labeled external DVD drive.

Just about any DVD/CD/Bluray USB drive will work.

Considerably less expensive, as well.

Yes, pick up a USB DVD drive off Amazon for about 20 bucks. There's even an Amazon model I bought for 13 bucks. Avoid the Apple rip off one though for 70 bucks.