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Model A1225 / Early 2009 / 2.66, 2.93, or 3.06 GHz Core 2 Duo processor

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Is possible upgrade an iMac Core to Duo Cpu with an i5 socket P cpu?

Hello!

It's my first question and I hope to find a right solution about this kind of upgrade:

The iMac "Core 2 Duo" 2.93 24-Inch Aluminum (Early 2009) features a 2.93 GHz Intel "Core 2 Duo" (E8335) processor, mounted in a ZIF Socket 478-pin micro-FCPGA (socket P), with System Bus Speed: 1066 MHz

I've found some Intel i5 cpu mounted over the Socket P, and so my question is:

  • Is possible install this Socket P i5 CPU in the iMac?
  • Has Anyone tried successfully this operation?

Thanks in advance!

Answered! View the answer I have this problem too

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i have a late 2009 iMAC with core2duo E8335 please can i ugrade the cpu to core2duo E8400

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I have yet to hear of anyone with a a Core 2 Duo logic board being able to utilize a i5 or i7 CPU. The EFI firmware will not recognize it.

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I wan't to update the logic board...only the cpu...

the socket P seems to be used also for a particular core I5, and I want to know if this kind of CPU can be used over the same logic board of iMac 9,5

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Answer has been rephrased.

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And so the only one CPU Update possible is a Core to Duo 3.06 :( :(

there is no Core 2 Duo Extreme (quad core?) supported by EFI? or any hacked efi :( :( :(

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You should be able to go to the 3.33 GHz Core 2 Duo (E8600). But I think you'll find that going to an SSHD or an SSD along with maxing out the RAM at 8GB will give you a lot more bang for the bucks on this model.

I have really been surprised at just how well the SSHD has worked on the 2009 models.

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Definitely and SSD instead of an SSHD if you ask me, and not the fastest SSDs. If you want to install and SSD, we can point you to something that will work. The newer/faster ones may not be compatible.

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@spn - Here's the two best drives for your system:

  • Samsung Desktop SSHD. While still a traditional drive it has a SSD for a cache which improves performance. For a low cost solution I recommend this.
  • Samsung 750 EVO. You'll also need an adapter frame to hold the 2.5" SSD in your systems 3.5" HD drive bay. While faster than a traditional drive it is also quite expensive when compared with the same storage size as a HD or SSHD. Given the age of your system think through how much longer you'll have it. A SSHD might be a better investment here.

Here is the IFIXIT guide you'll need to follow: iMac Intel 24" EMC 2267 Hard Drive Replacement

If your current HD is still healthy, you do have a second option here by swapping out your optical drive for a carrier to hold a 2.5" drive (SSD here). Here's the IFIXIT guide for that: Installing iMac Intel 24" EMC 2267 Dual Hard Drive. Then you can go with a much smaller SSD, one large enough to hold your OS & Apps and some free space for virtual RAM, then use your HD to hold your stuff. This is the best performance option without breaking the bank!

iMac Intel 24" EMC 2267 Hard Drive Image

Guide

iMac Intel 24" EMC 2267 Hard Drive Replacement

Difficulty:

Moderate

—

1 hour
iMac Intel 24" EMC 2267 Dual Drive Image

Guide

Installing iMac Intel 24" EMC 2267 Dual Drive

Difficulty:

Moderate

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