Good to know.
I have updated the original post #1 and added an Important Note: recommending the use of Kapton tape on the adapter.
Got a tip for us?
Let us know
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A list of successful iMac 27" (2012-2019) SSD upgrades
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I have updated the original post #1 and added an Important Note: recommending the use of Kapton tape on the adapter.
_____________________________________________________________
Blade upgrade by @Benni
21.10.2023
Device: iMac 27 Early 2019 - 19.1 - MRR12LL/A (3.7GHz i5-9600)
Blade upgrade: 512GB Apple -> 2TB OWC Aura Pro X2
Speed test: 2870 MB/s read, 2280 MB/s write Blackmagic
OS: Sonoma, Ventura, Mojave, Windows10
FileSystem: APFS, macOS Extended, NTFS
Boot Rom Version: 2019.0.0.0.0
Location: Austria
Issues after fresh OS install: macOS - Every 1-2 hour Kernel Panic (AppleAHCIDiskQueueManager::setPowerState), Extreme Slow boot time (10-15 min), Windows Boot Time (up to 5 min)
25.10.2023 update
Device: iMac 27 Early 2019 - 19.1 - MRR12LL/A (3.7GHz i5-9600)
Blade upgrade: 512GB Apple -> 2TB Crucial P3 Plus + Sintech ST-NGFF2013
Speed test: 3100 MB/s read, 2950 MB/s write Blackmagic, R-3180/W-3040 Sensei
OS: Sonoma 14.1, Windows10
FileSystem: APFS, NTFS
Boot Rom Version: 2020.40.3.0.0
Location: Austria
Issues after fresh OS install: None, it works like Magic!
Last edited:
Need help with my iMac 27" 5K 2019. I installed a WD SN850X. I put everything back together and saw that one of the LEDs lighted up when I plugged in the power. However, when I press the power button, the computer won't turn on. Did I break something or forget a reconnect a part? Does anyone have any ideas about what might be the problem? Much appreciated.
Device: iMac 19,2 - Retina 4K 21-inch - A2116 - 6-Core Intel Core i5-8500 CPU @ 3.00GHz
Blade upgrade: APPLE SSD SM0032L 28GB -> WD_BLUE SN570 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe Gen3 NVMe (+adapter)
HDD updrade : APPLE HDD HTS541010A9E632 1TB 5400rpm -> SSD Crucial MX500 1TB
Ram upgrade: 8GB Micron DDR4 2666MHz -> 32GB Crucial PC4 2667MHz
Processor : no change
macOS: Monterey 12.7
Location: Riviera (FR)
Blade + RAM + HDD upgrade
Adapter: M.2 SSD Adapter to NGFF M.2 from Aliexpress
Some thermal pads
After fresh OS install: NO FUSION Drive by choice (Blade 1TB used for OS+Data, internal SSD 1TB for TM)
Restore : Fresh macos install from USB stick and full data restore from TM by Apple Assistant
We have an iMac 19,2 21inch needing upgrades (this machine is slow, ... my wife complains)
Firstly, we generally keep our machines a decade or so;
we started the Apple journey with the beautiful mythic G4 ppc white sunflower model; running Lion OSX ... fond memories.
Then we got the intel mid-2011 alu model.
Over the years, had memory+hdd upgrades but in the end we were stuck @high Sierra; End of support with MacOS Metal on Mojave.
Preventive maintainance also had to replace some of the electrolytic capacitor on the power supply; but nothing serious;
These products were globally easy for maintenance; nothing glued and without any boring delicate submicro connectors.
Therefore, I refuse to repeatly poke around the inside guts at the risk to definitively ruining the new costly machine.
And as this machine belongs to my wife ... I must remain very cautious
Tips : Long adapter M.2 SSD Adapter to NGFF M.2 from Aliexpress with 2 layers of kapton tape (security)
Aluminium heatsink DIY from stairs nozing bar with some dremel work (some pics later)
I had a heatsink 4 the blade but it was way too high 10mm so I built a DIY model
with some thermal pads https://fr.aliexpress.com/item/1005004024767881.html
I changed a bit my initial plan to upgrade with Samsung EVO nvme + SSD drives, since WD_BLUE SN570 and Corsair drive should have less problem with trim features. Future will tell.
Since I learned (Think different) I also decided to stick to kiss principle “Keep it stupid simple”
-> no fusion drive here, there is no more advantage today, nvme and ssd are cheap, fast and big.
One physical volume = one destination, ig nvme blade -> boot drive/running system and SSD Sata Drive -> TM.
It keeps the system almost cable free (all in one), so there's no other external cable or extensions hanging around the desk except power and ethernet cables. (my wife is happy)
It took me a whole day for the entire project (backup, bootable usb install ,surgery , restore, etc ...)
Thanks to all contributions from members here that help and make us confident enough to carry out the upgrades
External backup will be done by rsync (or sshfs) to a remote residential location (we have affordable Internet ftth 1Gb/s here, ~20 bucks monthly) so it helps, but I have to finalyse this (opensource indeed) .
For the moment we basically rely on the internal TM SSD Drive (sic) + external backup drives
Before, I had backup done through cheap and efficient (home)SAN - thanks to open source LIO iSCSI target (block devices) for storage solution.
Reminder: Aways Be sure to have your DRP ready and effective (Disaster Recovery Plan)
Sadly it becomes difficult to find a free iscsi Initiator running on recent macos.
Any contributions appreciated here.
All in all the (new) supercharged imac is now running fast and strong
Performance information to follow
Blade upgrade: APPLE SSD SM0032L 28GB -> WD_BLUE SN570 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe Gen3 NVMe (+adapter)
HDD updrade : APPLE HDD HTS541010A9E632 1TB 5400rpm -> SSD Crucial MX500 1TB
Ram upgrade: 8GB Micron DDR4 2666MHz -> 32GB Crucial PC4 2667MHz
Processor : no change
macOS: Monterey 12.7
Location: Riviera (FR)
Blade + RAM + HDD upgrade
Adapter: M.2 SSD Adapter to NGFF M.2 from Aliexpress
Some thermal pads
After fresh OS install: NO FUSION Drive by choice (Blade 1TB used for OS+Data, internal SSD 1TB for TM)
Restore : Fresh macos install from USB stick and full data restore from TM by Apple Assistant
We have an iMac 19,2 21inch needing upgrades (this machine is slow, ... my wife complains)
Firstly, we generally keep our machines a decade or so;
we started the Apple journey with the beautiful mythic G4 ppc white sunflower model; running Lion OSX ... fond memories.
Then we got the intel mid-2011 alu model.
Over the years, had memory+hdd upgrades but in the end we were stuck @high Sierra; End of support with MacOS Metal on Mojave.
Preventive maintainance also had to replace some of the electrolytic capacitor on the power supply; but nothing serious;
These products were globally easy for maintenance; nothing glued and without any boring delicate submicro connectors.
Therefore, I refuse to repeatly poke around the inside guts at the risk to definitively ruining the new costly machine.
And as this machine belongs to my wife ... I must remain very cautious
Tips : Long adapter M.2 SSD Adapter to NGFF M.2 from Aliexpress with 2 layers of kapton tape (security)
Aluminium heatsink DIY from stairs nozing bar with some dremel work (some pics later)
I had a heatsink 4 the blade but it was way too high 10mm so I built a DIY model
with some thermal pads https://fr.aliexpress.com/item/1005004024767881.html
I changed a bit my initial plan to upgrade with Samsung EVO nvme + SSD drives, since WD_BLUE SN570 and Corsair drive should have less problem with trim features. Future will tell.
Since I learned (Think different) I also decided to stick to kiss principle “Keep it stupid simple”
-> no fusion drive here, there is no more advantage today, nvme and ssd are cheap, fast and big.
One physical volume = one destination, ig nvme blade -> boot drive/running system and SSD Sata Drive -> TM.
It keeps the system almost cable free (all in one), so there's no other external cable or extensions hanging around the desk except power and ethernet cables. (my wife is happy)
It took me a whole day for the entire project (backup, bootable usb install ,surgery , restore, etc ...)
Thanks to all contributions from members here that help and make us confident enough to carry out the upgrades
External backup will be done by rsync (or sshfs) to a remote residential location (we have affordable Internet ftth 1Gb/s here, ~20 bucks monthly) so it helps, but I have to finalyse this (opensource indeed) .
For the moment we basically rely on the internal TM SSD Drive (sic) + external backup drives
Before, I had backup done through cheap and efficient (home)SAN - thanks to open source LIO iSCSI target (block devices) for storage solution.
How To Configure iSCSI Target And Initiator In Linux
Learn how to configure an iSCSI target server to provide seemingly locally attached storage over the network to an iSCSI initiator client in Linux.
www.rootusers.com
Reminder: Aways Be sure to have your DRP ready and effective (Disaster Recovery Plan)
Sadly it becomes difficult to find a free iscsi Initiator running on recent macos.
Any contributions appreciated here.
All in all the (new) supercharged imac is now running fast and strong
Performance information to follow
I should add and say I find apple products aesthetic and globally intuitive and efficient (software) but they are also known for very poor repairability score (!!!) and software beeing very intrusive (iCloud);
moreover the apple parts are well-overpriced (memory, storage, etc..) for what it is. Optional Macs upgrades prices are also insane. The diy upgrade is the way to go despite the challenges.
moreover the apple parts are well-overpriced (memory, storage, etc..) for what it is. Optional Macs upgrades prices are also insane. The diy upgrade is the way to go despite the challenges.
Hi,
I plan to upgrade my iMac 5k mid 2017 fusion drive with a 1 TB genuine apple blade MZ-KPU1TOT/0A6 extracted probably from a MacBook, i think 2013-2015 but not sure…it’s a 12-16 pins one, so it fit my iMac connector. But I don’t know if it would be recognised by the OS (Ventura) after upgrade. The seller tell me that it should. Having suffisant experience with the macworld and how that platform against any evidence could be picky with hardware i decided to ask you that question : is a genuine 12-16 pins ssd blade from 2013 or above MacBook/pro/retina is compatible with an iMac 5k 2017 ? Really hate to open it for nothing. Thank in advance.
I plan to upgrade my iMac 5k mid 2017 fusion drive with a 1 TB genuine apple blade MZ-KPU1TOT/0A6 extracted probably from a MacBook, i think 2013-2015 but not sure…it’s a 12-16 pins one, so it fit my iMac connector. But I don’t know if it would be recognised by the OS (Ventura) after upgrade. The seller tell me that it should. Having suffisant experience with the macworld and how that platform against any evidence could be picky with hardware i decided to ask you that question : is a genuine 12-16 pins ssd blade from 2013 or above MacBook/pro/retina is compatible with an iMac 5k 2017 ? Really hate to open it for nothing. Thank in advance.
The SSD is compatible, but if it's from 2013, it'll be slower than later ones. Note that you need a backup first and you'll need to nuke the fusion drive before upgrading the SSD if you intend to leave its hard drive in place.
My iMac 27" is still fine, as is now, for me ..... I want another ..... can anyone recommend a reliable refurbished iMac 27 seller?
Hi,
following upgrade, below some tech information
Macintosh:$ system_profiler SPHardwareDataType SPSoftwareDataType SPMemoryDataType SPNVMeDataType SPSerialATADataType
Hardware:
Hardware Overview:
Model Name: iMac
Model Identifier: iMac19,2
Processor Name: 6-Core Intel Core i5
Processor Speed: 3 GHz
Number of Processors: 1
Total Number of Cores: 6
L2 Cache (per Core): 256 KB
L3 Cache: 9 MB
Memory: 32 GB
System Firmware Version: 2020.40.3.0.0
OS Loader Version: 540.120.3~37
SMC Version (system): 2.47f3
Software:
System Software Overview:
System Version: macOS 12.7.1 (21G920)
Kernel Version: Darwin 21.6.0
Boot Volume: macOS
Boot Mode: Normal
Computer Name:
User Name:
Secure Virtual Memory: Enabled
System Integrity Protection: Enabled
Time since boot: 1:55
Memory:
Memory Slots:
ECC: Disabled
Upgradeable Memory: Yes
BANK 0/ChannelA-DIMM0:
Size: 16 GB
Type: DDR4
Speed: 2667 MHz
Status: OK
Manufacturer: 859B
Part Number: CT16G4SFRA266
Serial Number:
BANK 2/ChannelB-DIMM0:
Size: 16 GB
Type: DDR4
Speed: 2667 MHz
Status: OK
Manufacturer: 859B
Part Number: CT16G4SFRA266
Serial Number:
NVMExpress:
Generic SSD Controller:
WD Blue SN570 1TB:
Capacity: 1 TB (1 000 204 886 016 bytes)
TRIM Support: Yes
Model: WD Blue SN570 1TB
Revision: 234110WD
Serial Number:
Link Width: x4
Link Speed: 8.0 GT/s
Detachable Drive: No
BSD Name: disk0
Partition Map Type: GPT (GUID Partition Table)
Removable Media: No
S.M.A.R.T. status: Verified
Volumes:
EFI:
Capacity: 209,7 MB (209 715 200 bytes)
File System: MS-DOS FAT32
BSD Name: disk0s1
Content: EFI
Volume UUID:
disk0s2:
Capacity: 1 TB (999 995 129 856 bytes)
BSD Name: disk0s2
Content: Apple_APFS
SATA:
Intel 11 Series Chipset:
Vendor: Intel
Product: 11 Series Chipset
Link Speed: 6 Gigabit
Negotiated Link Speed: 6 Gigabit
Physical Interconnect: SATA
Description: AHCI Version 1.31 Supported
CT1000MX500SSD1:
Capacity: 1 TB (1 000 204 886 016 bytes)
Model: CT1000MX500SSD1
Revision: M3CR045
Serial Number:
Native Command Queuing: Yes
Queue Depth: 32
Removable Media: No
Detachable Drive: No
BSD Name: disk2
Medium Type: Solid State
TRIM Support: No
Partition Map Type: GPT (GUID Partition Table)
S.M.A.R.T. status: Verified
Volumes:
EFI:
Capacity: 209,7 MB (209 715 200 bytes)
File System: MS-DOS FAT32
BSD Name: disk2s1
Content: EFI
Volume UUID:
disk2s2:
Capacity: 1 TB (999 995 129 856 bytes)
BSD Name: disk2s2
Content: Apple_APFS
------------------------------------
SSD Crucial/Micron CT1000MX500SSD1
Macintosh:$ date
Sun Nov 5 17:19:43 CET 2023
Macintosh:$ pwd
/Volumes/TM_MX500/Test
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 41.329203 secs (415683535 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 35.846700 secs (479259435 bytes/sec)
------------------------------------
Nvme WD Blue SN570 1TB
Macintosh:$ pwd
/System/Volumes/Data/home
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 12.504031 secs (1373946464 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 12.827699 secs (1339279101 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.854539 secs (3538929069 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.944229 secs (3474731689 bytes/sec)
------------------------------------
RAMDisk
Macintosh:$ diskutil apfs create $(hdiutil attach -nomount ram://39062500) RAMDisk && touch /Volumes/RAMDisk/.metadata_never_index
Started APFS operation on disk10
Creating a new empty APFS Container
Unmounting Volumes
Switching disk10 to APFS
Creating APFS Container
Created new APFS Container disk11
Disk from APFS operation: disk11
Finished APFS operation on disk10
Started APFS operation on disk11
Preparing to add APFS Volume to APFS Container disk11
Creating APFS Volume
Created new APFS Volume disk11s1
Mounting APFS Volume
Setting volume permissions
Disk from APFS operation: disk11s1
Finished APFS operation on disk11
Macintosh:$ pwd
/Volumes/RAMDisk/Test
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.928862 secs (3485565062 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ df -ht /Volumes/RAMDisk
Filesystem Size Used Avail Capacity iused ifree %iused Mounted on
/dev/disk11s1 19Gi 16Gi 2.6Gi 87% 6 27034080 0% /Volumes/RAMDisk
Macintosh:$ rm /Volumes/RAMDisk/Test/testwrite.txt
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.879900 secs (3520537139 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.209496 secs (4081217605 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 3.965998 secs (4331789674 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 3.994020 secs (4301397886 bytes/sec)
following upgrade, below some tech information
Macintosh:$ system_profiler SPHardwareDataType SPSoftwareDataType SPMemoryDataType SPNVMeDataType SPSerialATADataType
Hardware:
Hardware Overview:
Model Name: iMac
Model Identifier: iMac19,2
Processor Name: 6-Core Intel Core i5
Processor Speed: 3 GHz
Number of Processors: 1
Total Number of Cores: 6
L2 Cache (per Core): 256 KB
L3 Cache: 9 MB
Memory: 32 GB
System Firmware Version: 2020.40.3.0.0
OS Loader Version: 540.120.3~37
SMC Version (system): 2.47f3
Software:
System Software Overview:
System Version: macOS 12.7.1 (21G920)
Kernel Version: Darwin 21.6.0
Boot Volume: macOS
Boot Mode: Normal
Computer Name:
User Name:
Secure Virtual Memory: Enabled
System Integrity Protection: Enabled
Time since boot: 1:55
Memory:
Memory Slots:
ECC: Disabled
Upgradeable Memory: Yes
BANK 0/ChannelA-DIMM0:
Size: 16 GB
Type: DDR4
Speed: 2667 MHz
Status: OK
Manufacturer: 859B
Part Number: CT16G4SFRA266
Serial Number:
BANK 2/ChannelB-DIMM0:
Size: 16 GB
Type: DDR4
Speed: 2667 MHz
Status: OK
Manufacturer: 859B
Part Number: CT16G4SFRA266
Serial Number:
NVMExpress:
Generic SSD Controller:
WD Blue SN570 1TB:
Capacity: 1 TB (1 000 204 886 016 bytes)
TRIM Support: Yes
Model: WD Blue SN570 1TB
Revision: 234110WD
Serial Number:
Link Width: x4
Link Speed: 8.0 GT/s
Detachable Drive: No
BSD Name: disk0
Partition Map Type: GPT (GUID Partition Table)
Removable Media: No
S.M.A.R.T. status: Verified
Volumes:
EFI:
Capacity: 209,7 MB (209 715 200 bytes)
File System: MS-DOS FAT32
BSD Name: disk0s1
Content: EFI
Volume UUID:
disk0s2:
Capacity: 1 TB (999 995 129 856 bytes)
BSD Name: disk0s2
Content: Apple_APFS
SATA:
Intel 11 Series Chipset:
Vendor: Intel
Product: 11 Series Chipset
Link Speed: 6 Gigabit
Negotiated Link Speed: 6 Gigabit
Physical Interconnect: SATA
Description: AHCI Version 1.31 Supported
CT1000MX500SSD1:
Capacity: 1 TB (1 000 204 886 016 bytes)
Model: CT1000MX500SSD1
Revision: M3CR045
Serial Number:
Native Command Queuing: Yes
Queue Depth: 32
Removable Media: No
Detachable Drive: No
BSD Name: disk2
Medium Type: Solid State
TRIM Support: No
Partition Map Type: GPT (GUID Partition Table)
S.M.A.R.T. status: Verified
Volumes:
EFI:
Capacity: 209,7 MB (209 715 200 bytes)
File System: MS-DOS FAT32
BSD Name: disk2s1
Content: EFI
Volume UUID:
disk2s2:
Capacity: 1 TB (999 995 129 856 bytes)
BSD Name: disk2s2
Content: Apple_APFS
------------------------------------
SSD Crucial/Micron CT1000MX500SSD1
Macintosh:$ date
Sun Nov 5 17:19:43 CET 2023
Macintosh:$ pwd
/Volumes/TM_MX500/Test
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 41.329203 secs (415683535 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 35.846700 secs (479259435 bytes/sec)
------------------------------------
Nvme WD Blue SN570 1TB
Macintosh:$ pwd
/System/Volumes/Data/home
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 12.504031 secs (1373946464 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 12.827699 secs (1339279101 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.854539 secs (3538929069 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.944229 secs (3474731689 bytes/sec)
------------------------------------
RAMDisk
Macintosh:$ diskutil apfs create $(hdiutil attach -nomount ram://39062500) RAMDisk && touch /Volumes/RAMDisk/.metadata_never_index
Started APFS operation on disk10
Creating a new empty APFS Container
Unmounting Volumes
Switching disk10 to APFS
Creating APFS Container
Created new APFS Container disk11
Disk from APFS operation: disk11
Finished APFS operation on disk10
Started APFS operation on disk11
Preparing to add APFS Volume to APFS Container disk11
Creating APFS Volume
Created new APFS Volume disk11s1
Mounting APFS Volume
Setting volume permissions
Disk from APFS operation: disk11s1
Finished APFS operation on disk11
Macintosh:$ pwd
/Volumes/RAMDisk/Test
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.928862 secs (3485565062 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ df -ht /Volumes/RAMDisk
Filesystem Size Used Avail Capacity iused ifree %iused Mounted on
/dev/disk11s1 19Gi 16Gi 2.6Gi 87% 6 27034080 0% /Volumes/RAMDisk
Macintosh:$ rm /Volumes/RAMDisk/Test/testwrite.txt
Macintosh:$ sync;sync;sync; sudo purge
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=testwrite.txt count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.879900 secs (3520537139 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 4.209496 secs (4081217605 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 3.965998 secs (4331789674 bytes/sec)
Macintosh:$ dd if=testwrite.txt of=/dev/null count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 3.994020 secs (4301397886 bytes/sec)
roughly, performances are :
SSD Crucial/Micron 1TB -> 450MB read / 400MB write
Nvme WD Blue SN570 1TB -> 3374MB read /1310MB write
RAMdisk (just curious) -> 4131MB / 3357MB write
still happy
To compare from the ridiculous
HDD stock
Macintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=test.tmp count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 171.306094 secs (100287554 bytes/sec)
SSD Crucial/Micron 1TB -> 450MB read / 400MB write
Nvme WD Blue SN570 1TB -> 3374MB read /1310MB write
RAMdisk (just curious) -> 4131MB / 3357MB write
still happy
To compare from the ridiculous
HDD stockMacintosh:$ dd if=/dev/zero of=test.tmp count=16384 bs=1M conv=sync
16384+0 records in
16384+0 records out
17179869184 bytes transferred in 171.306094 secs (100287554 bytes/sec)
Thank you for your answer, I’m going to install Ventura from scratch into the blade after removing definitely the sata hdd from computer. I’m worried about the probability that the system don’t let me to achieve that. I heard from members some issues of Monterey failure install due to lack of an EFI firmware update which prevent them to continue the install in case the original drive is not present…I don’t know if it apply also to Ventura. Would be nice if someone can give me a hint or show me a way to get around this obstacle. At present i’m running Ventura 13.4.1 in my iMac.
Anyone having issues after the Monterey 12.7.1 update?
I upgraded my 2019 27" iMac with a 2 TB Western Digital SN850 SSD connected via a Sintech NGFF M.2 nVME SSD adapter card. It was installed by an Apple authorized service center.
I'm wondering if there is an incompatibility between my aftermarket SSD and/or adapter card, and Monterey 12.7.1 specifically.
[Or maybe it has nothing to do with that—owners of 2019 MBPs (which can only have stock Apple SSDs) had this issue with an earlier Monterey update; they said the fix was to exclude the Bootcamp partition from Spotlight Indexing. I don't have Bootcamp, but I do have two other partitions, which I just excluded. So maybe that will fix things.
]
Starting with that update, I've been getting daily cursor freezes, forcing a reboot. Never experienced that before. Have done disk repair, OS reinstall, and PRAM reset, none of which have fixed the issue. And after each time I repair the SSD in First Aid (which is challenging, since it initially fails repair, so I need to rerun it; and it needs to be done in Recovery), it needs to be repaired again the next day.
And today I had a full-blown panic with this message:
panic(cpu 0 caller 0xffffff80037876a2): nvme: "3rd party NVMe controller. Command timeout.
Also, is it an issue that it says my Partition Map Type is "unknown"? Should it say GPT instead?
![1699832116756.png]( "1699832116756.png")
Here's my device's SMART status:
![1699832361225.png]( "1699832361225.png")
Details on my upgrade:
I upgraded my 2019 27" iMac with a 2 TB Western Digital SN850 SSD connected via a Sintech NGFF M.2 nVME SSD adapter card. It was installed by an Apple authorized service center.
I'm wondering if there is an incompatibility between my aftermarket SSD and/or adapter card, and Monterey 12.7.1 specifically.
[Or maybe it has nothing to do with that—owners of 2019 MBPs (which can only have stock Apple SSDs) had this issue with an earlier Monterey update; they said the fix was to exclude the Bootcamp partition from Spotlight Indexing. I don't have Bootcamp, but I do have two other partitions, which I just excluded. So maybe that will fix things.
]
Starting with that update, I've been getting daily cursor freezes, forcing a reboot. Never experienced that before. Have done disk repair, OS reinstall, and PRAM reset, none of which have fixed the issue. And after each time I repair the SSD in First Aid (which is challenging, since it initially fails repair, so I need to rerun it; and it needs to be done in Recovery), it needs to be repaired again the next day.
And today I had a full-blown panic with this message:
panic(cpu 0 caller 0xffffff80037876a2): nvme: "3rd party NVMe controller. Command timeout.
Also, is it an issue that it says my Partition Map Type is "unknown"? Should it say GPT instead?
Here's my device's SMART status:
Details on my upgrade:
Last edited:
Hello, everyone! After reading half of the thread, the only question I got if I need temp sensor for SN770 + 870 Evo SSD setup?
Imac 2017 18.3 but may be i got upgraded since it has Fusion + 256 SSD.
Also how to turn off fusion drive since I plan just run separate nvme+ssd for w/e
Imac 2017 18.3 but may be i got upgraded since it has Fusion + 256 SSD.
Also how to turn off fusion drive since I plan just run separate nvme+ssd for w/e
Attachments
Hi Theorist,
That kind of unexpected freezes, kernel panic, ... could have a lot of hardware or software origines such as power fail, logic board, controller, temperatures, ... / firmware version, driver incompatibility, etc...
Personnaly, I would first very closely check the hardware and software environment.
Other option : then trying to revert to previous macos version such as 12.6.8 and confirm it is related or not.
Maybe you could also try to boot such previous macos version from an external (TB or USB) drive.
It's also possible your NVMe is failing or the Sintech NGFF M.2 nVME SSD adapter card not properly mounted with insolating kapton tape (I personnaly put double layers of)
Anyway it is time (if you haven't done already) to secure a good solid bullet proof backup.
I hope you'll lucky and resolve your issue; let us know.
That kind of unexpected freezes, kernel panic, ... could have a lot of hardware or software origines such as power fail, logic board, controller, temperatures, ... / firmware version, driver incompatibility, etc...
Personnaly, I would first very closely check the hardware and software environment.
Other option : then trying to revert to previous macos version such as 12.6.8 and confirm it is related or not.
Maybe you could also try to boot such previous macos version from an external (TB or USB) drive.
It's also possible your NVMe is failing or the Sintech NGFF M.2 nVME SSD adapter card not properly mounted with insolating kapton tape (I personnaly put double layers of)
Anyway it is time (if you haven't done already) to secure a good solid bullet proof backup.
I hope you'll lucky and resolve your issue; let us know.
Last edited:
Your screenshot doesn't look like its an actual fusion drink (then only one logical drive would be listed, not two), but more like the old 32GB Apple SSD is still there, not (or barely) used but carries the name 'Fusion Drive'.
With the drives you intend to install I am pretty sure you won't need a temperature sensor nor fan control software. Just make sure you update your macOS to most current version before upgrade and check you have the most recent firmware for your iMac (you can check here: https://eclecticlight.co/2023/10/03/which-firmware-should-your-mac-be-using-version-8/).
As always, have to good backup before you start any work - good luck!
Magnus
to complete my previous post, I would like to mention the need to check the firmware version. It is known that the presence of third-party nvme causes the firmware update to potentialy fail when upgrading macos.
The workaround is to reinstall the genuine APPLE SSD SM0032L blade for the upgrade succesfully complete.
This is really annoying.
So, I don't know if your problem is related but I would first check the firmware version.
check the link given by mbosse.
Open Terminal, and in its command line type
/usr/libexec/firmwarecheckers/eficheck/eficheck --integrity-check
Macintosh:$ /usr/libexec/firmwarecheckers/eficheck/eficheck --integrity-check
EFI Version: IM191.88Z.F000.B00.2308061817 (Boot ROM Version: 2020.40.3.0.0)
Primary allowlist version match found. No changes detected in primary hashes.
For (re)installing a previous macos version (depends on your hw):
Macintosh:$ softwareupdate --list-full-installers
Finding available software
Software Update found the following full installers:
* Title: macOS Sonoma, Version: 14.1.1, Size: 12604952KiB, Build: 23B81
* Title: macOS Sonoma, Version: 14.1, Size: 12603757KiB, Build: 23B74
* Title: macOS Sonoma, Version: 14.0, Size: 12555162KiB, Build: 23A344
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.6.1, Size: 11662168KiB, Build: 22G313
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.6, Size: 11657005KiB, Build: 22G120
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.5.2, Size: 11655353KiB, Build: 22G91
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.5.1, Size: 11655520KiB, Build: 22G90
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.5, Size: 11654590KiB, Build: 22G74
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.4.1, Size: 11513284KiB, Build: 22F82
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.7.1, Size: 12110635KiB, Build: 21G920
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.7, Size: 12107687KiB, Build: 21G816
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.6.9, Size: 12111110KiB, Build: 21G726
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.6.8, Size: 12119078KiB, Build: 21G725
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.6.7, Size: 12115649KiB, Build: 21G651
* Title: macOS Big Sur, Version: 11.7.10, Size: 12125478KiB, Build: 20G1427
* Title: macOS Big Sur, Version: 11.7.9, Size: 12125714KiB, Build: 20G1426
* Title: macOS Big Sur, Version: 11.7.8, Size: 12120994KiB, Build: 20G1351
* Title: macOS Catalina, Version: 10.15.7, Size: 8055650KiB, Build: 19H15
* Title: macOS Catalina, Version: 10.15.7, Size: 8055522KiB, Build: 19H2
* Title: macOS Catalina, Version: 10.15.6, Size: 8055450KiB, Build: 19G2021
* Title: macOS Mojave, Version: 10.14.6, Size: 5896894KiB, Build: 18G103
* Title: macOS Mojave, Version: 10.14.4, Size: 5894794KiB, Build: 18E2034
More details https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253440269
(you will need sudo to be able to download the appropriate OS version)
The workaround is to reinstall the genuine APPLE SSD SM0032L blade for the upgrade succesfully complete.
This is really annoying.
So, I don't know if your problem is related but I would first check the firmware version.
check the link given by mbosse.
Open Terminal, and in its command line type
/usr/libexec/firmwarecheckers/eficheck/eficheck --integrity-check
Macintosh:$ /usr/libexec/firmwarecheckers/eficheck/eficheck --integrity-check
EFI Version: IM191.88Z.F000.B00.2308061817 (Boot ROM Version: 2020.40.3.0.0)
Primary allowlist version match found. No changes detected in primary hashes.
For (re)installing a previous macos version (depends on your hw):
Macintosh:$ softwareupdate --list-full-installers
Finding available software
Software Update found the following full installers:
* Title: macOS Sonoma, Version: 14.1.1, Size: 12604952KiB, Build: 23B81
* Title: macOS Sonoma, Version: 14.1, Size: 12603757KiB, Build: 23B74
* Title: macOS Sonoma, Version: 14.0, Size: 12555162KiB, Build: 23A344
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.6.1, Size: 11662168KiB, Build: 22G313
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.6, Size: 11657005KiB, Build: 22G120
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.5.2, Size: 11655353KiB, Build: 22G91
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.5.1, Size: 11655520KiB, Build: 22G90
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.5, Size: 11654590KiB, Build: 22G74
* Title: macOS Ventura, Version: 13.4.1, Size: 11513284KiB, Build: 22F82
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.7.1, Size: 12110635KiB, Build: 21G920
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.7, Size: 12107687KiB, Build: 21G816
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.6.9, Size: 12111110KiB, Build: 21G726
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.6.8, Size: 12119078KiB, Build: 21G725
* Title: macOS Monterey, Version: 12.6.7, Size: 12115649KiB, Build: 21G651
* Title: macOS Big Sur, Version: 11.7.10, Size: 12125478KiB, Build: 20G1427
* Title: macOS Big Sur, Version: 11.7.9, Size: 12125714KiB, Build: 20G1426
* Title: macOS Big Sur, Version: 11.7.8, Size: 12120994KiB, Build: 20G1351
* Title: macOS Catalina, Version: 10.15.7, Size: 8055650KiB, Build: 19H15
* Title: macOS Catalina, Version: 10.15.7, Size: 8055522KiB, Build: 19H2
* Title: macOS Catalina, Version: 10.15.6, Size: 8055450KiB, Build: 19G2021
* Title: macOS Mojave, Version: 10.14.6, Size: 5896894KiB, Build: 18G103
* Title: macOS Mojave, Version: 10.14.4, Size: 5894794KiB, Build: 18E2034
More details https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253440269
(you will need sudo to be able to download the appropriate OS version)
Last edited:
Did upgrade on my iMac 2019 5k base model.
Use an Nvme adapter : https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B0B426JNDV?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
Installed a Nvme Crucial P5 Plus 2Tb : https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B098WKQRDL?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
I installed a tape on the adapter to avoid elec shortcut when installed in the iMac.
Worked flowless, around 2800 mbps read and write. Bootcamp and MacOs Sonoma all good!
Use an Nvme adapter : https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B0B426JNDV?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
Installed a Nvme Crucial P5 Plus 2Tb : https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B098WKQRDL?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
I installed a tape on the adapter to avoid elec shortcut when installed in the iMac.
Worked flowless, around 2800 mbps read and write. Bootcamp and MacOs Sonoma all good!
Blade + HDD + CPU upgrade by pbedrosi
Device: Late 2015 - 17.1 - MK462LL/A (3.2Ghz i5-6500, fusion drive)
Blade upgrade: 1TB Samsung 970 EVO Plus (NVME M.2 SSD
HDD upgrade: 1TB SATA HDD -> Seagate Barracuda Pro ST4000DM004 (5,400 RPM, 256MB cache - for quietness)
CPU upgrade: i5-6500 -> i7-6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake
Speed test: 2,950 MB/s read, 3,017 MB/s write
OS: Monterey 12.7.1
Adapter: XT-XINTE NGFF to SSD Adapter (aliexpress $1.70, model F29084)
Temperature sensor: none used
Issues after fresh OS install:[/COLOR] no issues - fast and quiet!
This took a long time to update b/c I bent the pins on the CPU socket the first time around - the replacement board had GPU issues after the upgrade (***** "parthaven" eBay) which I could not return b/c time expired. Anyhow, now the system is running super smooth. love it.
Some installation pics below. there were a lot of back and forth on SSD heat sink installation. I ended up cutting the thermal pad to only key chips, the others were there just to hold the heat sink up. I also used thermal pads on the GPU chips. GPU and CPU received Noctua NT-H1 thermal paste.
I also had during this installation drama the headphone port go out. Only way to get sound was to partially insert and headphone connector. I replaced with 3rd party from Aliexpress. works great now.
Core i5 to i7 - no fan issues, runs quiet. Glad I upgraded.
![iMac Late 2015 01.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 01.jpeg")
Samsung SSD
![iMac Late 2015 02.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 02.jpeg")
![iMac Late 2015 03.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 03.jpeg")
The NVME Adapter
![iMac Late 2015 04.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 04.jpeg")
![iMac Late 2015 05.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 05.jpeg")
The Heatsink - used the rubber bands, and cut only the chips needing the thermal pads - promote airflow, etc..
![iMac Late 2015 06.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 06.jpeg")
![iMac Late 2015 07.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 07.jpeg")
![iMac Late 2015 08.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 08.jpeg")
The Seagate HDD - Thought about not even having one, but I had this lying around new in a box - I did prefer the 5,400 RPM to keep things quite. Its just for general storage.
![iMac Late 2015 09.jpeg]( "iMac Late 2015 09.jpeg")
But the SSD is fast
![iMac Late 2015 10.png]( "iMac Late 2015 10.png")
Device: Late 2015 - 17.1 - MK462LL/A (3.2Ghz i5-6500, fusion drive)
Blade upgrade: 1TB Samsung 970 EVO Plus (NVME M.2 SSD
HDD upgrade: 1TB SATA HDD -> Seagate Barracuda Pro ST4000DM004 (5,400 RPM, 256MB cache - for quietness)
CPU upgrade: i5-6500 -> i7-6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake
Speed test: 2,950 MB/s read, 3,017 MB/s write
OS: Monterey 12.7.1
Adapter: XT-XINTE NGFF to SSD Adapter (aliexpress $1.70, model F29084)
Temperature sensor: none used
Issues after fresh OS install:[/COLOR] no issues - fast and quiet!
This took a long time to update b/c I bent the pins on the CPU socket the first time around - the replacement board had GPU issues after the upgrade (***** "parthaven" eBay) which I could not return b/c time expired. Anyhow, now the system is running super smooth. love it.
Some installation pics below. there were a lot of back and forth on SSD heat sink installation. I ended up cutting the thermal pad to only key chips, the others were there just to hold the heat sink up. I also used thermal pads on the GPU chips. GPU and CPU received Noctua NT-H1 thermal paste.
I also had during this installation drama the headphone port go out. Only way to get sound was to partially insert and headphone connector. I replaced with 3rd party from Aliexpress. works great now.
Core i5 to i7 - no fan issues, runs quiet. Glad I upgraded.
Samsung SSD
The NVME Adapter
The Heatsink - used the rubber bands, and cut only the chips needing the thermal pads - promote airflow, etc..
The Seagate HDD - Thought about not even having one, but I had this lying around new in a box - I did prefer the 5,400 RPM to keep things quite. Its just for general storage.
But the SSD is fast
Hi everyone,
After a failure of the fusion drive, I'm currently working on an upgrade, unsuccessful for now.
I saw no trace of the samsung 980 in the thread, and am testing it. So far, no success with the 980 on my imac 17.1. The imac boots, but the SSD is invisible in DU. Same with a 970EvoPlus 500GB I had lying around.
The SSDs are both confirmed working (in usb>nvme adapters), and the formatting makes no difference.
Some caveats, and potential points of failure :
- I made a quick spreadsheet based on the first post compilation (if you have better, welcome!), and it seems the 17.1 imac shows a pattern of "partial successes", and no complete success. No trace from the 970evoplus or 980 there (except the post previous to the one before mine).
- I am using (three different) "small" nvme adapters, with tape.
- I have been unable to update the SSD firmware with Samsung Magician (which doesn't see SSDs when on my usb adapter).
My next attempts would be
0 - any 'software' suggestion without buying new hardware ?
1 - sourcing a NGFF2013 Sintech card
2 - sourcing and trying a samsung 970 (€€ attempt)
3 - sourcing and trying a WD Black (€€€ attempt)
Any hints regarding scenario 0 ?
ATTEMPTED UPGRADE tristan:
Device: iMac 17.1
Blade upgrade: 128GB Apple -> Samsung (980 or 970evoplus)
Speed test: not yet available
OS: not yet relevant?
FileSystem: not yet relevant?
Boot Rom Version: 522.0.0
Location: Belgium
Issues: No SSD detected
![Screen Shot 2023-12-05 at 16.13.30.png]( "Screen Shot 2023-12-05 at 16.13.30.png")
After a failure of the fusion drive, I'm currently working on an upgrade, unsuccessful for now.
I saw no trace of the samsung 980 in the thread, and am testing it. So far, no success with the 980 on my imac 17.1. The imac boots, but the SSD is invisible in DU. Same with a 970EvoPlus 500GB I had lying around.
The SSDs are both confirmed working (in usb>nvme adapters), and the formatting makes no difference.
Some caveats, and potential points of failure :
- I made a quick spreadsheet based on the first post compilation (if you have better, welcome!), and it seems the 17.1 imac shows a pattern of "partial successes", and no complete success. No trace from the 970evoplus or 980 there (except the post previous to the one before mine).
- I am using (three different) "small" nvme adapters, with tape.
- I have been unable to update the SSD firmware with Samsung Magician (which doesn't see SSDs when on my usb adapter).
My next attempts would be
0 - any 'software' suggestion without buying new hardware ?
1 - sourcing a NGFF2013 Sintech card
2 - sourcing and trying a samsung 970 (€€ attempt)
3 - sourcing and trying a WD Black (€€€ attempt)
Any hints regarding scenario 0 ?
ATTEMPTED UPGRADE tristan:
Device: iMac 17.1
Blade upgrade: 128GB Apple -> Samsung (980 or 970evoplus)
Speed test: not yet available
OS: not yet relevant?
FileSystem: not yet relevant?
Boot Rom Version: 522.0.0
Location: Belgium
Issues: No SSD detected
Last edited:
Hi Theorist,
I am not an expert but a couple of comments regarding Monterey and WD Black may help:
I have recently upgraded an iMac 19.1 with a WD770 which is regarded as a ‘safe’ NVME for Mac. I was running Monterey without problems but as Apple upgrades were installed so odd glitches appeared; mainly bluetooth but also a slowing in boot times.
For the benefit of others in the household, I use Sony MX1000 headphones while watching movies. Getting the bluetooth to sync was slow in Monterey 12 but became impossible to connect in later versions so I moved to Ventura which was fine.
If you research Monterey performance my problems where mild by comparison with many others. See how your system behaves moving to Ventura.
Regarding the SN850, it is an expensive blade for a PCIE 3.0 system. Others may correct me, but I do not believe it is yet on the ‘safe’ list of Macrumors NVME SSD. The kernal panic is usually a sign of hardware/firmware incompatibility.
“WD Black NVMe SSD v1, v2 and v3, WD Blue SN550 (FW Update mandatory), SN750, SN750 SE” This comment on Macrumours suggests you may have a firmware upgrade task ahead of you.
I hope this helps solve your problems.
Cheers
I am not an expert but a couple of comments regarding Monterey and WD Black may help:
I have recently upgraded an iMac 19.1 with a WD770 which is regarded as a ‘safe’ NVME for Mac. I was running Monterey without problems but as Apple upgrades were installed so odd glitches appeared; mainly bluetooth but also a slowing in boot times.
For the benefit of others in the household, I use Sony MX1000 headphones while watching movies. Getting the bluetooth to sync was slow in Monterey 12 but became impossible to connect in later versions so I moved to Ventura which was fine.
If you research Monterey performance my problems where mild by comparison with many others. See how your system behaves moving to Ventura.
Regarding the SN850, it is an expensive blade for a PCIE 3.0 system. Others may correct me, but I do not believe it is yet on the ‘safe’ list of Macrumors NVME SSD. The kernal panic is usually a sign of hardware/firmware incompatibility.
“WD Black NVMe SSD v1, v2 and v3, WD Blue SN550 (FW Update mandatory), SN750, SN750 SE” This comment on Macrumours suggests you may have a firmware upgrade task ahead of you.
I hope this helps solve your problems.
Cheers