The blue bullseye represents where the SATA connectors are just underneath the motherboard. Be careful! Wires are still attached to the back chassis so just move it over for now so it is free from the motherboard. First use a T6 to unscrew the one screw marked in the pink box. Remove this wifi device (marked in pink) from the motherboard. It does not require much effort to lift the glass. Be careful, the suction cup I used here left slight residue. Use a suction cup to remove the front glass of the iMac. See below for more information on adding memory.Īlso, by completing this step first, the motherboard will be more maneuverable, and you may not need to disconnect all the connectors listed in STEP 5. I will list this step as optional because it is not required, but may be helpful. Although I did not do this, it is probably a good suggestion, as I did have trouble sliding the motherboard back into its orginal position. This helps when repositioning the motherboard.

Some people that have followed this guide recommend removing the memory (RAM) modules first. However, if you are looking for ultimate performance, I'd go with the new Samsung 830 Series. The m4 has great performance and is more affordable. When chosing an SSD, be sure its SATA-III to take full advantage of data throughput. NOTE: The SSD shown in this guide is the older Crucial model (C300), which only acheives half the speed of the newer Crucial m4s. I purchased mine from Adorama for much less, also consider Amazon. Apple will charge you $1699 for this model + tax. I purchased the iMac 27' base model (MC813LL/A), which comes with a 2.7Ghz processor, 4GB of memory, and a 1TB hard drive. Performing the actions herin may void Apple's warranty. This procedure is intended for educational purposes.

Although it may be different for a 21.5' iMac, I know it is possible, as I read that many people have had success across the web. This procedure was performed on a 27' iMac which has slightly more room to install an SSD. Once the SATA cable is installed, it is easy to install and securely mount an SSD drive under the DVD drive. The iMac has two SATA-III connectors, one is already in use by the orginal 1TB hard drive. The procedure requires some dis assembly to connect a SATA cable to the spare SATA-III connector located underneath the motherboard. This is not a replacement for the original hard drive, but instead an addition. This procedure explains how to install an SSD. The total time to complete is 3 hours approximately. Some prior computer experience is recommended along with patience. And after installation, you'll feel more comfortable with your iMac hardware. To install an SSD on a 2011 Apple iMac is not easy, but not hard either.

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