Adding a new SSD replacing the Optical Drive

I am looking to remove my Optical Drive and replacing it with a SSD. My question is, once I replace it will I need to remove Lion from my HHD and install it on my SSD? And if so, how do I go about doing this? Also I would like high performance from CS6 so should I install it on the SSD as well? All the other non apple apps should be okay on the stock HHD or should I just buy a 250GB SSD and move everything over at once with a clone? Thank everybuddy 🙂

MacBook Pro, iOS 4.3.3

Posted on Jun 9, 2012 6:12 PM

18 replies

Nov 24, 2015 1:42 AM in response to las_vegas

Thanks for the info. Interesting to read that you upgraded the logic boards. Was this an easy upgrade in terms of a direct swop out? Was this much more cost effective than a new computer? May consider it with a 17-inch MBP 2009/ 2.93 GHz Core 2 Duo/ 8 GB with a factory fit Matte screen, as I can't stand the glossy screens and therefore won't be buying a new Apple laptop anytime soon.

Cheers

Nov 24, 2015 12:54 PM in response to mariotheplumber

It wasn't too difficult. If upgrading a 2010 Macbook pro (the Wifi cable connects south of the Superdrive connector) the battery and memory need to be replaced as well. This requires a special tri-tip screwdriver to remove the battery. The 2011 boards are a direct exchange. You can find the step-by-step guide at iFixit.com. The cost was about $500 per logicboard. I found a company on eBay that also offered a $50 exchange refund for the old boards. $450 isn't bad for a major upgrade!

Unfortunately, the Macbook Pro 5,2 (early 2009) you described in your previous post would not qualify for this upgrade. I don't believe the logicboard would fit the case.

Nov 25, 2015 2:07 AM in response to las_vegas

Many thanks. Quick check confirms your comment that early 2009 is a no go.

Thanks again.

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Adding a new SSD replacing the Optical Drive