Transferring files to new iMac

[Fresh Tendrils]

Hi, this weekend I'm buying a 2011 low end 27" imac, and was wondering what's the quickest and most reliable way to transfer my files from my 2009 MPB [160GB. 10.6.8]. Ethernet, 800 to 800 Firewire, or wireless?

I remember that back in 2009 when I tried transferring my files from my ibook G4 to my MBP it failed half way through [400 to 800 firewire]. That was only 30GB, so I'm not too optimisitic about tranferring 160GB Any idea roughly how long that would take?

Also, is it OK to transfer the files when I'm prompted to when I first turn on my new imac, or should I set up the computer and update Lion etc before transferring my user account over. Thanks!

 

[Macman45]

Run Software Update First

Hi, this weekend I'm buying a 2011 low end 27" imac, and was wondering what's the quickest and most reliable way to transfer my files from my 2009 MPB [160GB. 10.6.8]. Ethernet, 800 to 800 Firewire, or wireless?

I remember that back in 2009 when I tried transferring my files from my ibook G4 to my MBP it failed half way through [400 to 800 firewire]. That was only 30GB, so I'm not too optimisitic about tranferring 160GB Any idea roughly how long that would take?

Also, is it OK to transfer the files when I'm prompted to when I first turn on my new imac, or should I set up the computer and update Lion etc before transferring my user account over. Thanks!

Then why not use the migration assistant? As for cables, FW800 should be your best bet.

 

[Fresh Tendrils]

Thanks for the quick response! I did use migration assistant. But half way through I got a message saying that the transfer had failed. I figured that 800 firewire is probably the best bet, but I was just curious about how it compares to ethernet transfer. I'm guessing wireless is probably the slowest and most likely to fail.

 

[Macman45]

Yes

Thanks for the quick response! I did use migration assistant. But half way through I got a message saying that the transfer had failed. I figured that 800 firewire is probably the best bet, but I was just curious about how it compares to ethernet transfer. I'm guessing wireless is probably the slowest and most likely to fail.

I transferred my iTunes library (Okay it is pretty big) across from my iMac to my Air....Took 2 Hours!!! Never again...Get those cables out!