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Upgrade Your eMac
Leo Bodnar writes "This eMac upgrade proves that with some effort Apple's entry-level consumer models like eMac can be converted into reasonably serious workhorse system at very reasonable cost. Not for everyone, but some find it useful!"
The main upgrade I'm concerned about is the processor; 800 mhz to 1.33 ghz is a huge leap! Could this be done as easily on other models? I have a 1ghz TiBook (not that I'm willing to experiment on it) but it would be interesting to see what it's "full potential is." But, overall, this upgrade is a sweet way to get a over 1.3 ghz machine for around 1100 USD. That's less than a dollar a mhz.
I'm writing this from an eMac right now - but mine is the latest revision with the 1GHz G4.
All of those upgrades were available to me as build-to-order options in the online store @ apple.com
I've got 160GB HD, 1GB of RAM, Superdrive, 1GHz G4 - seems to me I don't need to hack it to make it a decent workhorse out of the box.
If anyone wants to overclock an older mac (yes, way back into the 68k machines) take a look at http://homepage.mac.com/schrier/.
Think of it like an SUV. Everyone wants and SUV they can go offroading in. They all want the AWD or 4WD models, but how many ppl see anything more than going over a curb in a parking lot?
Tim Smith - Ramblings from Nerd Land
Why not just hold onto it a year, extend AppleCare, and then later when you want to upgrade, sell on eBay for about 80%-90% of the current price, and get a new one.
No question Macs hold their value amazingly well. Also that, if you really look at what you get, you get a pretty good deal for the money. While the components are quite conservatively rated, leaving room for overclocking etc., the price of a more powerful machine is so reasonable that if you paid yourself anything for your time you could have a machine with the performance characteristics you want and a warranty. Also you'd have more time to actually use it.
But all these things are equally true of a car like a Honda Civic; it still doesn't stop people from trying to customize them for higher performance.
Wisdom, in these cases, doesn't consist of deciding to mod or not to mod. It consists of understanding why you want to mod or not mod.
If you have plenty of dough and not much time, the idea that you'd be an idiot to do something like this to save money. However, if you do it for the challenge, or if you are somebody who needs the computer power, doesn't have much money, and has the time it may also make sense.
Post may contain irony: discontinue use if experiencing mood swings, nausea or elevated blood pressure.
I can't help but wonder if the iMac model can see a similar performance gain. I own that one...should probably tear it down and see if I can find a similar resistor bank. Anyone able to beat me to it and look?
Karma: Chameleon (mostly due to the fact that you come and go).
People do buy SUVs because they like the sense of power, and it is nice to sit up higher and be able to have a clearer picture of the road. The 4WD is nice in a pinch too.
Lasers Controlled Games!