Would this work?? Or am I just CRAZY! PLEASE HELP!!!

So I am a complete noob when it comes to computers/Macs. I have an older Mac mini I am looking to upgrade. I can do the following for less than $300 and I think it will be worth it. But I have no idea if I can actually do this with an older Mini. I know the processor is upgradeable but I don't know the limits. Also to my understanding the maximum amount of RAM is 2GB with the current "Factory installed" processor, but if I upgrade the processor does that maximum increase?


This is what I currently have:

2006 mac mini with a: 1.66Ghz Intel Core Duo Processor and 2Gb Ram (2x1GB)

This is what I want to do:

Replace the processor with: Intel C2D T7600 - 2.33 GHz 4MB L2 Cache - SL9SD

Replace the RAM to: 8GB 2X4GB DDR3

IS THIS POSSIBLE????

I'm not sure to what extent you can upgrade that model Mini but the folks at ifixit have videos on how to upgrade and what will work. iFixit: The free repair manual

Wait for other responses since I am a novIce user.

First thoight is no to both.

The processor-CPU-is usually soldered to the mother board-logic board Inz macs- that would require extreme technical skill in my opinion as well as very particular types of tools.

As for the RAM- refer to this site
Apple Mac mini Specs (All Mac mini Technical Specs) @ EveryMac.com

And your machine is here
Mac mini "Core Duo" 1.66 Specs (Early/Late 2006, MA206LL/A*, Macmini1,1, A1176, 2108) @ EveryMac.com

It seems your out of luck. You would be better served with a New Mini/ or a used one from the Apple online store. They change their stock all the time on there, and some of them would be starting at about 550. Which isn't much over your above figure.
If you scroll down to the chart and find the ram area you'll read:
""Standard RAM:512 MB Maximum RAM:2 GB
Details:512 MB of RAM is installed as two 256 MB modules, no slots free.""

First of all, I am not recommending this. I've never tried it, and I have no idea what the results will be. That being said, I found Merom Mac Mini Hack describing the process and results of replacing the processor with the one you suggested.

Here are reports on the successful upgrading, and one includes to a 2.33GHz CPU. It may not be a cheap option and a pre-loved 2.33 Mini may work out cheaper. There is a link to the guide on how to do it at the end of paragraph one.


Mac Mini Core 2 Duo CPU Swaps (2006-2008 minis)


MacTracker reports maximum memory is 2GB, but you may like to try more and cross your fingers.