Accessing RAM/Hard Drive/Battery for Unibody MacBooks
pple has released a few new and updated Knowledge Base documents on how to access the batteries and hard drives in the new Unibody MacBook and MacBook Pro laptops.
Apple has released a few new and updated Knowledge Base documents on how to access the batteries and hard drives in the new Unibody MacBook and MacBook Pro laptops. While the 13" and 15" computers come with a hatch that provides easy access (at least to the hard drive and battery), the 17" computers do not have a hatch and many users have complained about the accessibility for user-serviceable hard drives, as well as RAM upgrades for the whole product line.
Apple's reasoning for removing the access hatch makes sense from a battery engineering standpoint, but it does limit users from otherwise relatively simple repairs, upgrades, and troubleshooting. Despite not having a hatch, the 17" macbook is still accessible. Users will have to remove the bottom case of the computer, and will need a #0 philips screwdriver. The following articles and resources outline the proper techniques to use for opening the various Unibody MacBook models:
NOTE: If users are at all uncertain about performing these procedures, it is recommended to take the computer in to an Apple service provider for servicing.
15" MacBooks Battery and Hard Drive NOTE: Instructions for upgrading the RAM are inscribed on the inside of the access hatch
17" MacBook Hard Drive (and RAM)
For users interested in upgrading the RAM on the new 15" MacBook Pro, the following video is a very thorough demonstration on how to upgrade the RAM: http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-Upgrade-RAM-in-Unibody-MacBook-Pro---Bleeding-Edge-TV-297--71649299
It is recommended to watch that video in full before attempting to open the MacBook's case (regardless of the model used), as there are several valuable tips given, including how to properly unscrew the screws without stripping them and how to properly placing new RAM modules into the computer.
Resources