Member Avatar for deekayed

I want to but an iPod. I have a tray loading iMac that is now running OSX but only has a USB1 port. Can I upgrade it a firewire or USB2??? Thanks for any help!

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by kc0arf

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A few practical checks and next steps based on the replies from , and — focused on what to do now rather than debate hardware limits.

First, identify exactly which iMac and which OS you have. Open About This Mac -> More Info (or run the System Profiler in /Applications/Utilities). In System Profiler check the USB and FireWire sections: if USB shows a bus speed of about 12 Mb/sec you have USB 1.1; if a FireWire bus is present it will appear there. If you prefer a physical check, look at the back for an IEEE 1394/FireWire jack (older Macs use a 6‑pin connector; camcorder cables use 4‑pin).

Options that work today without risky hardware mods:

  • If the iMac already has FireWire, use a FireWire cable for older iPods that require it.
  • If there is no FireWire, use a second machine (friend’s PC/Mac with USB2 or FireWire) to sync the iPod, then copy or share the music files to the iMac via network share or an external disk.
  • Buy an iPod model whose connector and iTunes requirements match the iMac’s OS and available ports. Before connecting any used iPod, disable automatic syncing in iTunes to avoid unintended erasure.

Important cautions: passive FireWire-to-USB adapters do not convert the host protocols and will not make an iPod talk to a USB‑only host. Also check which iTunes version your OS can run — newer iPods sometimes require newer iTunes. Run the System Profiler, note the model/serial, and choose the least-cost solution (secondary sync machine or matching iPod) rather than risky internal hacks.

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Member Avatar for OSX79newbie

Nothing out there in my opinion is relaible enough to help you out. I would look into a used Mac or PC to solve your iPod connection needs.

Member Avatar for kc0arf

Hello,

The iMac was designed to be a consumer - oriented computer with limited expansion options. It was based on the ideas that drove the original Macintosh back in the 1980's.... simple form, all in one design, detached keyboard and mouse.

I do not think these iMacs have an expansion slot. So you would remain with USB1, which I believe supports an iPod.

Christian

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