Upgrading the Mac Mini Server version to the regular OS X Lion eventually

[St. Germain]

I'm strongly considering getting the Server version of the Mac Mini because the price I'd configure a regular Mini to would be similar to the Server price. I don't mind having the extra server features that OS X Server edition includes, but I'm a bit worried it's going to be a pain for upgrading to the next OS X version. I don't think I'd buy the server version of Lion when it comes out because again, I don't need the extra features.

So will it be difficult to upgrade from OS X Server to just the regular OS X version? Or should I just scrap OS X Server from the get go and put the regular Snow Leopard version on right from the beginning?

 

[DannySmurf]

You can't do an upgrade install on the server version to the client version, so you'd be looking at a clean wipe of the machine at the time.

However, there should be no technical problem putting Lion client on the machine. Snow Leopard client installs on the mini server just fine, if you have a recent enough copy. I don't imagine Lion would present any special challenges.

 

[dazed]

I'm thinking about getting the server mini and want to wipe it and install the client version. I bought a copy of snow leopard a few months ago and am wondering if it's new enough to install on the mini (ie has all the appropriate drivers).

Thx

 

[DannySmurf]

I'm thinking about getting the server mini and want to wipe it and install the client version. I bought a copy of snow leopard a few months ago and am wondering if it's new enough to install on the mini (ie has all the appropriate drivers).

Thx

Nope. You'll either need a client mini restore disc, or wait until Apple starts shipping 10.6.4 or 10.6.5 in retail boxes.

 

[dazed]

oh ok thanks. i believe the one i have is 10.6.3 so i guess im out of luck until the newer versions are released(which hopefully wont take long).

 

[MacZonie]

oh ok thanks. i believe the one i have is 10.6.3 so i guess im out of luck until the newer versions are released(which hopefully wont take long).

Actually I just did that. Used a 10.6.3 retail disk to install on the other drive then ran the combo updater for 10.6.5. All hardware appeared to be functional.

 

[DannySmurf]

Actually I just did that. Used a 10.6.3 retail disk to install on the other drive then ran the combo updater for 10.6.5. All hardware appeared to be functional.

I stand corrected. I suppose the combo updater would work, since 10.6.5 is actually out now.

 

[dazed]

I'm not too familiar with installing osx, how do i go about this if i'm replacing one of the drives with a ssd?

Do i have to install server on the second drive and boot from there and then install 10.6.3 on the new ssd ?


Thx