is it time for a new computer yet? (or can it be saved..)
It's still running! My mid-2007 version, 2.8ghz 24" iMac!
Alas, it is getting quite (okay, VERY) slow during some of the easiest task applications (and Finder,) that I fear its end may be nigh. Here's what I've done so far:
* Thought it could have been the attached external drive dragging it down. It uses its own external power supply, and is from that same year (2007) itself, so perhaps replacing it with a more modern, Mac-friendly, portable external could be of assistance. It houses all of my music files, so it is always plugged. Replaced with: a 1TB WD My Passport for Macs. That drive itself runs a bit smoother than the last, but didn't help much with the overall computer.
* Attempted a swipe and re-install of the latest OS X software. Proceeded to boot, do everything- no real change to its behaviour. On to the drastic measures
* Full sweep clean of drive and fresh install of latest OS X software. Deleted all software currently on computer, no backups used, in the event something were corrupted. The iMac seems a tad faster, but still gives me (at random) lengthy beach ball waiting times on internet usage, iTunes, and even stalls the Finder, as to not force quit applications. Those are basically all the applications currently installed; didn't even yet unloaded the Adobe CS on it
I believe it's capable of handling up to 4GB of RAM, and it currently is using the stock 1GB x2 of DDR2. Naturally, doubling this with the max allowance should enhance applications such as Adobe's, but being the computer is from 2007, is it worth the time and money to install fresh RAM? - or would one say the iMac has reached its lifespan regardless? I've honestly never had a computer last this long.... hahaha. If replacing, I will most likely go with a MacBook Pro, having the option to go mobile with the pretty Mac, versus stationary with this behemoth.
And... its frozen in time twice since attempting to type this, each for perhaps fifteen seconds or more. Any tips or advice is greatly appreciated!!
Cheers!!!