Replace Hard Drive with SSD
System Info: MacBook Pro running OS X 10.9, mid 2009, 13", PN MB991LL/A (2.53 GHz), 8GB RAM
I started having some problems with my system, mainly slow downs, especially when using Safari. I got a copy of Scannerz (http://scsc-online.com/Scannerz.html) and it confirmed drive platter damage. I know some of these units are supposed to have cable problems but Scannerz tested that too and found no problems with the cable, so this is a bonafide drive problem (it's 6 years old, you know).
I'd like to go ahead and replace it with an SSD and have some questions:
- Maybe I'm getting models mixed up but I seem to remember something about a drive thermal sensor on Apples not being compatible with generic drives. I know I read that somewhere I just don't remember where?
- I assume, if #1 above isn't a problem, that I can basically use any SATA SSD. Now I know I should get the fastest interface possible, but are there any caveats or incompatibilities that some brands of SSDs may present?
- What about stuff like trim and wear leveling. WIll this be in a driver for the SSD or does the OS take care of it automatically?
- Are there any brands/models to stay away from?
- Should I replace the cable too? I've heard they can get bad.
Thanks in advance.
MacBook Pro, OS X Mavericks (10.9.5)