Sidebar Sidebar
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

Removing the iSight possible?

T

theimp

macrumors member
Original poster
Oct 12, 2006
89
0
Ithaca, NY
Hi all!

I just got a job offer at this company I love (Electric Boat). Since they do defense stuff, there are no cameras of any kind allowed. I have a decent commute and really want to get an apple laptop (already have an iMac). However, the isight poses a significant problem, is there any way to opt out of the camera or remove it? I really dont want to be stuck having to get a pc laptop =(
 
There's no way to get it from Apple without the iSight. You can just open the case and remove it. I know that's not the most elegant thing to do to a new $2500 laptop, but that's really your only option.
 
In theory you could open it up and actually remove the camera but with all the usual caveats.

Would you only be using it on the commute or plan to use it internally. If it is the former do they offer secure storage somewhere.
 
I'm afraid you cannot order a MacBook without an iSight Camera. Check with the company to determine if an authorized technician can remove it.
 
Yea it would be good if I could get it removed, I wouldnt trust myself to do it though, maybe I can find someone? I would mostly use it for the commute, they provide computers at work, that is a good idea, to check if I can store it when I get there.
 
You could just cover it up with a small piece of white electrical tape, thats of course if we are talking about a macbook.
 
Ron21 said:
You could just cover it up with a small piece of white electrical tape, thats of course if we are talking about a macbook.
Click to expand...

Im sure that won't pass the stringent security in these companies. In fact i'd think they might even laugh at you.
 
It shouldn't be too hard to crack the top of the case off, remove the camera, put in a matching piece of whatever (aluminum or plastic, depending on model) and in its place.

Perhaps contact the employer and ask if its possible for their IT guys to disable it to a satisfactory level for you?
 
Make sure you talk to your local security personel before making such a large purchase because the built-in microphone and/or USB/Firewire ports could be a problem as well.
 
Thanks for all the replies. I think I will call the company to check before I make the purchase, don't want to spend all the money for nothing!
 
You do even have the option, inelegant as it is, of simply sticking a screwdriver in the camera lens. I know people who have done so who work at places like Lockheed Martin, and that is acceptable. In fact, after you do that and get the security guys to certify it, you could then stick some plastic or tape over it to disguise the bad looks.

jW
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.
Top Bottom
Back