SEVERAL HOURS OF TERROR

My Problem

I simply wanted the benefits of a SSD—speed and dependability—no moving parts.

My Fix

When removing the logic board, I got ham-handed and knocked off a capacitor. I spent hours finding the cost of a new logic board, where I could find a replacement capacitor—exactly how much trouble I was in. Thank goodness I have a second Mac to facilitate this frantic behavior.

My Advice

I did find a source for the capacitor (Digi-Key in Minnesota) and discovered it's quite simple to solder it back on the board. And, for some reason, my Mac Mini is running just fine without the capacitor. I'll put a new one on anyway.

ADVICE: 1) Never, ever force anything. If it's not moving there's a reason. 2) Do your best to avoid panic. Things may not be as bad they seem.

RESULT: My Mac Mini running off its new SSD is now snappy and happy.