[iStudent 2003]

I looking to get an Intel iMac, and I am woundering is it possible to upgrade the hard drive in it?

[harrisjamieh]

Physically possible? Yes
Insanely difficult even for the experienced computer builder? HELL YES!

it involves removing the LCD panel to access the insides of the machine. If you think you will need the extra space, then buy the iMac with the 500 GB hard drive. If this still isn't enough, and you need a little more, buy an external HD. if you need a lot more, maybe a PowerMac is more suited to your needs.

[DavidC]

I did it on my 17" iMac and WOW it was crazy.. I thought I was gonna flip out before it was over. I must say that it was probably the most difficult work on a piece of hardware I have done!

-Robert

[harrisjamieh]

You did it on your intel iMac? So you voided your warrenty that was good for at least 9 months more just to put a bigger HD in it? Crazy.

[Tuoder]

Originally Posted by iStudent 2003

I looking to get an Intel iMac, and I am woundering is it possible to upgrade the hard drive in it?

Are you talking about getting it built to order, or doing it yourself? I would strongly reccommend just building it to order. You can get a 500GB drive for $300. That is about as big as hard drives come, and for $19.99 cheaper than Tigerdirect.com could get you (not including shipping, and if you installed it yourself). Of course you could eBay the 250 to more than recoup the loss, but it is probably not worth voiding the warranty.

[mduell]

160 -> 500GB upgrade from Apple: $375
250 -> 500GB upgrade from Apple: $300

500GB drive ($270, 5 year warranty) + CompUSA (Apple authorized service place) install fee ($30) = $300
Plus you have a 160GB or 250GB drive you can use for backups (with a $30 enclosure) or punt on eBay for $50-80.

[harrisjamieh]

But you loose your 1 year warrenty..... which could be VERY costly indeed

[mduell]

Originally Posted by harrisjamieh

But you loose your 1 year warrenty..... which could be VERY costly indeed

No, you don't, since the upgrade is done by an Apple authorized service place.

[Mojo]

Physically possible? Yes
Insanely difficult even for the experienced computer builder? HELL YES!

Which begs the question: Why did Apple move from the east-access design of the first two G5 iMac versions to the current design that began with the 3rd generation G5 iMac?

[harrisjamieh]

Originally Posted by Mojo

Which begs the question: Why did Apple move from the east-access design of the first two G5 iMac versions to the current design that began with the 3rd generation G5 iMac?

To make the iMac thinner

[Eriamjh]

And cheaper (for them).

[baw]

And cooler.

[harrisjamieh]

And sleeker.


(ok, thats enough )