How to Open an iMac 20

A Philips screwdriver is required.

The iMac 20 is a Macintosh computer manufactured by Apple Inc. The name "iMac" refers to the line of computers and the "20" is the screen's 20-inch diagonal dimension. The iMac is an "all in one" model, meaning that it is a fully functional computer that only requires a network cable, its input devices (mouse and keyboard) and a power cord to be attached. The iMac is both wireless and Bluetooth compatible and includes both FireWire and USB ports.

Things You'll Need

• Torx screwdriver set
• Philips screwdriver
• Towel or soft cloth
• Small suction cup

Instructions

For Both White and Silver iMac Models

1. 

   Confirm your iMac is unplugged before proceeding.

   Power down your iMac and disconnect the power cord, the network cable and all USB and FireWire cables. Wait at least 30 minutes for your iMac to cool down before proceeding.

2. 

   Spread out a towel to avoid damaging the screen.

   Spread out a towel on a table and place the iMac on it, face down. This will prevent the display from becoming scratched or damaged.

3. Loosen the screws on the underside of the iMac. Note that these screws don't fully disengage from the plate.

For Older (White) iMacs

1. Keep the iMac on the towel with the screen facing down. By gently pulling on the metal stand, you'll see that the two halves will begin to come apart. Hold the bottom part of the iMac to keep it stable while you separate the two halves. Note how the case is "hinged" at the top--gently disengage these hinges to fully remove the back of the iMac.

2. 

   You can easily replace the hard drive in an iMac.

   Reassemble the computer by repeating the steps in reverse order. Fit the two halves of the body together and then reattach the metal plate on the bottom of the iMac. Tighten the screws and connect the cables.

3. Boot up your iMac to confirm that you reassembled it correctly.

For Intel (Silver) iMacs

1. Stand your Intel iMac in its original upright position and attach the suction cup to the screen. Gently pull the screen cover away from the rest of the computer. This cover is held in place by a series of small magnets, not screws. Place it aside in an area where it won't get scratched or damaged.

2. Gently pry the two halves apart to fully expose the inner workings of the iMac. Note there is a small wire that connects the camera to the motherboard of the computer that must be fully disengaged in order to totally separate the two halves. Once this wire has been disconnected at the plastic connection point, you can fully remove the back section of the computer housing.

3. 

   You'll need a Torx screwdriver set to remove the display.

   Remove the Torx screws that secure the display to the housing. In most instances, you won't have to disconnect the display, but you can prop it up out of the way with a small, folded towel.

4. Reassemble the computer by repeating the steps in reverse order. Reattach the display with the Torx screws, fit the two halves of the body together and then reconnect the camera wire before securing the two halves together. Replace the screen cover and then reattach the metal plate on the bottom of the iMac and tighten the screws.

Tips & Warnings

• Use this opportunity to blow the dust out of the inside of your iMac.

• Some inner components of the iMac are razor sharp.

References

• Apple Support: iMac DIY Manuals

Resources

• LowEndMac.com: iMac Profiles