Upgrading Imac Processor

[MoGoMatic]

Hey guys, Long time mac user, first time poster... heh. Anyway, I have a white Imac model 5,1 core 2 duo 2.16... I'm going to be breaking it open in a few days to drop a 1TB hard drive in it, and I was thinking to myself.. what about the processor/possibly video card. If I understand correctly I can't upgrade the video card, its integrated, or not removable... but what about the processor.. Is it a standard 775 socket core 2 duo? or is it mobile technology? I've been eyeballing the new 2.93 core 2 duo as an upgrade and I wanted to know what someone's thoughts where on this. Since I'll have the time, the machine apart and the ability to replace the processor, but would it be worth it? or even possible with the current logic board? Thanks for your thoughts

 

[an4rew]

I have had my iMac open, the CPU and cooler is soldered in a way you can't access it.

The GPU is upgradable because it uses a standard MXM slot but really expensive. You could probably build a decent gaming rig for the same price!

 

[Ace134blue]

Hey guys, Long time mac user, first time poster... heh. Anyway, I have a white Imac model 5,1 core 2 duo 2.16... I'm going to be breaking it open in a few days to drop a 1TB hard drive in it, and I was thinking to myself.. what about the processor/possibly video card. If I understand correctly I can't upgrade the video card, its integrated, or not removable... but what about the processor.. Is it a standard 775 socket core 2 duo? or is it mobile technology? I've been eyeballing the new 2.93 core 2 duo as an upgrade and I wanted to know what someone's thoughts where on this. Since I'll have the time, the machine apart and the ability to replace the processor, but would it be worth it? or even possible with the current logic board? Thanks for your thoughts

Although it the cpu is soldered, you can still unsolder it. Yes it is a standard 775 socket but the gpu is mobile technology. Heres a how to link. http://www.maclife.com/article/create_upgrade_your_imac_to_a_core_2_duo_processor

 

[MTI]

That link isn't going to be of much help since it's just the guide for replacing a Core Duo with the same speed Core 2 Duo mobile chip. The OP already has a Core 2 Duo.

 

[Techhie]

I hate to say it, but Apple specifically designed the soldering on the logic board to be extremely difficult for a novice to unsolder. You are better off buying a new logic board, because you will most likely break the socket in the process 99/100 times.

 

[old-wiz]

Unsolder a CPU from the motherboard? lots of luck with that. They get put in via machine which can solder a great deal better than any human.