Apple 21.5” iMac (Mid 2011); iMac12,1 Installation Guides and Specifications

Upgrading the Apple 21.5” iMac (Mid 2011) RAM is very easy. Other upgrades or repair like the Hard Drive or the Optical Drive are a bit more advanced but still manageable. All You'll need is some simple tools, and the correct parts. We then urge you to follow the videos or the Apple manual provided on the links below.

Please see our Apple RAM Memory for iMac 21.5" (Mid 2011) page to locate your  Apple compatible RAM upgrade for your iMac

Please see our Hard Drive  for iMac 21.5" (Mid 2011) page to locate your  Apple compatible Hard Drive upgrades for your iMac

Please see our DIY Installation Repair Kits for iMac 21.5" (Mid 2011) page to locate your  DIY Installation Repair Kits for your iMac

Apple User Guides for the Apple iMac 21.5" (Mid 2011)

iMac: How to remove or install memory Learn how to remove or install memory in your iMac computer on the Apple support page.

OWC Video Installation Guide for Apple 21.5” iMac (Mid 2011):

Memory Install Video

Recommended Tools for the RAM upgrade:

-  #2 Philips Screwdriver

Add a second hard drive or SSD easily with the OWC Data Doubler. Here's an instructional video from OWC:

Data Doubler Install Video

Use the Optical Drive install videos below for iMac 27" & 21.5" (Mid 2011) to install a DataDoubler mounted drive:

Optical Drive Install Video

Recommended Tools for the Data Doubler/Optibay upgrade:

-  Heavy-duty Suction Cups 
-  Newer Technology 14 Piece Tool Set
-  Data Doubler 

Here is how to fix or upgrade the main Hard Drive:

NewerTech AdaptaDrive - Drive Install Video

Use the Hard Drive Install Video below for iMac 21.5" (Mid 2011) to install aNewerTech AdaptaDrive mounted drive: 

Hard Drive Installation Video

Before you replace your original Hard Drive you need to be aware of the heat sensor issue, if you're not have a look at this website.

As explained you have 2 options to fix this:
- Software fix with HDD Fan Control
- Hardware fix with a OWC Heat Sensor DIY kit

Recommended Tools for the HDD/SSD upgrade:

-  Heavy-duty Suction Cups
-  Newer Technology 14 Piece Tool Set
- 2.5" to 3.5" adapter - for SSD installation only
-  External Hard Drive Enclosure - Convert your existing drive into an external one First make sure you understand the heat sensor issue mentioned above.

SSD Installation Kit Install Video

Recommended Tools for the SSD install:

-  Heavy-duty Suction Cups 
-  Newer Technology 14 Piece Tool Set 

or: 

-  OWC DIY Kit for all Apple 21.5" iMac 2011 Models for installing an internal SSD 

Here is some detailed specifications as well as direct link to available upgrades: