Recycled Computing

Upgrading a Pismo PowerBook with a Slot-load Drive Salvaged from an iBook

- 2009.10.01

Well, I wasn't dissatisfied with the DVD-ROM drive that came with myPismo. In fact, I hadtwo of the modules; one from another Pismo. They played movies, readCDs, and allowed me to install software from them.

Pismo DVD-ROM drive
Pismo's original DVD-ROM drive.

However, wouldn't it be nice if I could burn CDs and DVDs from myPismo?

I just happen to have a burner (photo below), salvaged from a iBookG4. This might be tough, I thought, but since I had two of the originalDVD-ROM drives, I could use one to made the conversion and not be outanything.

SuperDrive from an iBook G4 Now, I know this topic has been covered before (Simon Royalwrote ReplacingYour Lombard or Pismo Optical Drive with a SuperDrive), but it'salways nice to review how easy it is for a motor moron such as myselfto install things in the Pismo (the world's easiest computer toupdate).

Sled from a Pismo optical drive The first thing to do is take the donor drive apart so you cansalvage the sled that slides in and out of the Pismo. There are twoscrews on the left side of the drive. There are also two screws on theright side. Pop the four screws off, remove the silver drive, and youhave the empty sled.

4 screws hold the optical drive in place I had to remove some bits and pieces from the G4's drive,including the ribbon cable, to get it in shape for the install.Fortunately, the newer drive has screw holes that line up with thePismo's sled. You just slide it in, fasten all the screws, and you haveupdated the disc drive on your Pismo.

Funny how it just seems easier on the Pismo.

As you can see by the screenphoto, the Pismo recognizes the new drive. I have even burned a CD (offa Genius playlist) for use in my car. I haven't burned a DVD, but Imight give it a shot for Christmas presents.

Pismo hacked by the Borg Now the only drawback is the appearance. It looks like the Borghave hacked my Pismo to make the new drive fit. However, I plan to takea Dremel tool to an old Zip drive module and then attach it (somehow)to the new drive to make things look neater.

It's a pity that Apple's design mavens would have a hissy fit if yousuggested that Apple build a "Pismo II". It's so easy to work on andupdate that it would probably become an instant classic that would lastfor years and years.

Okay, maybe that's the reason they won't build one.

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