12-18-2009, 03:51 PM
I replaced both the optical drive and the hard drive on our G4 iMac a few years ago. It was not particularly difficult. Google around for instructions. As I remember, there were some notes on which optical drives fit best (I think we used a Pioneer). There was some issue about length of the optical drive case or how it fit with the drive door. OWC might also have install instructions and advice if you buy from them.
That said, the older Macs are having trouble with web video playback. That's the only functional issue I see with their using the old computer for a few more years. I am still on Tiger on a PowerBook G4 and that's my main complaint about using this computer.
If they do not have an external drive hooked up for backup, I'd get that before you do anything else, and set it up on a schedule.
A more recent computer will be a bit more functional for their needs. Do the upgrade if they have an emotional attachment to that Mac, and you'd like to have the challenge. Otherwise, a replacement is a better idea.
Good luck.
- Winston
That said, the older Macs are having trouble with web video playback. That's the only functional issue I see with their using the old computer for a few more years. I am still on Tiger on a PowerBook G4 and that's my main complaint about using this computer.
If they do not have an external drive hooked up for backup, I'd get that before you do anything else, and set it up on a schedule.
A more recent computer will be a bit more functional for their needs. Do the upgrade if they have an emotional attachment to that Mac, and you'd like to have the challenge. Otherwise, a replacement is a better idea.
Good luck.
- Winston