iMac partition problem

NCMau · NCMau #1 (**permalink**)

03-06-2011, 01:41 PM

I am trying to create a partition so I can install Window 7 on my 3.2 GHz intel iMac. It is telling me that a partition can not be created because some files can not be moved. Does anyone know what these files are? (Time Machine is turned off)
I wish there is a way that I don't have reformat the whole hard drive in order to install a partition.

chscag · chscag #2 (**permalink**)

03-06-2011, 02:59 PM

What it's "really" telling you is that the amount of free space you have available is not contiguous and that there are files which can not be moved by the Boot Camp assistant. (In other words, the hard drive is fragmented.)

Resolution: Backup your hard drive with Time Machine. Then, use your install DVD to erase the hard drive and reinstall OS X. During the reinstall process use your Time Machine backup to restore. Afterward, try again to use the Boot Camp assistant to create the partition. It should work this time.

Another way would be to buy iDefrag and use it to consolidate free space and move the files. Cost is $29.95. But to be honest, by the time you use iDefrag (runs over-night) and understand how it works, it's easier to do the erase and reinstall.

chscag #2 (permalink)
Member Since: Jan 23, 2008 Location: Fort Worth, Texas Posts: 32,032 Mac Specs: 21.5" iMac 2.5 GHz i5, iPad 3rd Gen., 3 iPods	03-06-2011, 02:59 PM What it's "really" telling you is that the amount of free space you have available is not contiguous and that there are files which can not be moved by the Boot Camp assistant. (In other words, the hard drive is fragmented.) Resolution: Backup your hard drive with Time Machine. Then, use your install DVD to erase the hard drive and reinstall OS X. During the reinstall process use your Time Machine backup to restore. Afterward, try again to use the Boot Camp assistant to create the partition. It should work this time. Another way would be to buy iDefrag and use it to consolidate free space and move the files. Cost is $29.95. But to be honest, by the time you use iDefrag (runs over-night) and understand how it works, it's easier to do the erase and reinstall. Community Guidelines
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NCMau #1 (permalink)
Member Since: Mar 06, 2011 Posts: 1	03-06-2011, 01:41 PM I am trying to create a partition so I can install Window 7 on my 3.2 GHz intel iMac. It is telling me that a partition can not be created because some files can not be moved. Does anyone know what these files are? (Time Machine is turned off) I wish there is a way that I don't have reformat the whole hard drive in order to install a partition.
	QUOTE Thanks

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