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How To

How to Change an iMac Superdrive

Contributor
By Ty Arthur
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)
An Apple iMac computer.
An Apple iMac computer.
Yeray Hernandez: Flickr.com

The Superdrive is the combination CD/DVD burning drive included with the Apple iMac computer. Over time the Superdrive can suffer a hardware malfunction as it is used repeatedly. Rather than buying a whole new iMac or taking your computer to a service center, change the Superdrive on your own. To replace an iMac Superdrive you will need to partially disassemble the computer to reach the existing drive.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Replacement Superdrive
  • Soft cloth
  1. Step 1

    Open the Apple menu and select "Shut Down." Unplug all of the cables from the back of the Apple iMac computer.

  2. Step 2

    Set the iMac computer face down on a towel or soft cloth. Remove the three screws along the bottom edge of the iMac case that hold the back panel in place.

  3. Step 3

    Lift the panel upwards and remove it from the iMac computer. Touch any metal object connected to the ground to release the built-up static electricity in your body.

  4. Step 4

    Remove the three screws at the upper-left end of the iMac that hold the Superdrive in place. Lift the Superdrive straight upwards and remove it from the iMac.

  5. Step 5

    Set the replacement Superdrive into the open port on the iMac. Push it down gently until it clicks into place. Attach the three screws to hold the new drive in place.

  6. Step 6

    Set the panel onto the back of the iMac computer and push it down until it clicks into place. Reconnect the three screws at the bottom edge of the case.

  7. Step 7

    Reconnect all of the cables to the back of the iMac computer. Power the computer on and use the Superdrive to ensure it was installed correctly.

Tips & Warnings
  • If you don't ground yourself before touching the internal components of your iMac computer, you can potentially damage the Superdrive or the iMac's logic board. Only remove the brass colored screws on the inside of the iMac. If you remove the silver screws you will void the warranty provided through Apple.
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