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Changing the processor in an iBook?

PostPosted: Tue Jul 10, 2007 4:29 pm
by Tarnish
Let me get this out of the way: I know absolutely nothing about computers. I know that W, A, S, and D control Cate's movement, and that's it. Just thought I'd let you know in case I say something (more) stupid.

I bought my iBook just about a month before I found out that nothing works for PowerPC processors anymore, and now I'd like to change over to an Intel one. But a Google search just leads to a bunch of reviews.

So, anyone know if it's possible?

PostPosted: Tue Jul 10, 2007 4:59 pm
by Alexander
Unless you're deep into hardware knowledge, and you own a laptop computer of any kind, it's nearly impossible.

Upgrading the ram, hard-drive, sound card or graphic card is possible, but the processor, as far as I know, is impossible unless you know more then the basics of how a laptop works.

There are two other though. The first would be to call the company of your computer and ask for an upgrade, but I don't think Apple does that with their old models. And the second option is to buy a new computer as unfortunate as it sounds. But laptop users have less access to upgrades then full PC users.

PostPosted: Tue Jul 10, 2007 5:21 pm
by Mithrandir
Short answer: No. Sorry!

Long answer:
The processor cannot simply be swapped out on a Powerbook, unfortunately. There are some very specific extra chips on the motherboard that require a full MoBo replacement.

You're pretty much stuck with it, it would appear. Did you buy it second hand? Can you sell it for about the same you paid for it? It's a pain, but it might give you a leg up on getting the intel box.

PostPosted: Tue Jul 10, 2007 6:59 pm
by Tarnish
Shoot. Oh well. I can live without it, I suppose. It was worth a shot.

I bought it new. And I checked on eBay, it's going for about $500 now. So...no. If I really need a Mac with Intel, I guess I can just get a desktop sometime.