[PHoynak]

I have a Core Solo Mini with 2gbs of ram. My question is it worth upgrading? I could upgrade to a Core Duo (will Core 2 Duo work.. not sure of the socket type) and the hard drive. Right now I use a Newer Tech Mini Stack to boot from (160gb) and it's getting full. I think by the time I am done a new Mini may be a better move?

[dowNNshift]

Sure you could upgrade your Core Solo to a Core 2 processor, but it would not be very cost effective.

Let me preface, if you still have AppleCare on this machine I do not recommend modifying your machine in any way, as processor upgrading voids warranty. If one was to upgrade, you'd have to use either a Socket M Yonah or Merom generation processor. The Mac Mini uses a pinned processor, unlike most traditional PC processors do today.

There are lots of Mac Mini hack and modification sites all over the net. But by the time you've purchased the processor, thermal paste, and tools required to do this modification, it would be less to purchase a current Mac Mini retail (and you'd have a fresh warranty too).

If its performance you're after, consider upgrading your memory. PC2-5300 SO-DIMMs are cheap right now, upgrading to a gig or 2 gigs would boost things for ya.

[mduell]

1.66Ghz Core 2 Duo: $209
1.83Ghz Core 2 Duo: $243
2.0Ghz Core 2 Duo: $296

160GB 2.5" HDD: $85
250GB 2.5" HDD: $150

Your machine may support 3/4GB (4GB physical, 3GB usable) after the CPU upgrade, but I'm not certain. Check xlr8yourmac for success/failure reports.

I think you're going to get a lot of comments telling you to sell yours and buy a new one, but I don't think that makes much sense. A new 1.83Ghz/2GB/160GB mini is $900, while yours is worth perhaps $300 and the upgrades to get it there are ~$330.

My suggestion is to drop the $450 on 2.0Ghz/250GB, but if you don't want to put that much into it, $300 for 1.66Ghz/160GB is also a decent deal.

Keep the ministack for Time Machine.

[PHoynak]

What is the best thermal paste to use on the new CPU? I already have 2gb of ram installed so I think I am good there.

[iMan G5]

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