Chosen Solution
I know that this topic has been discussed before and I’ve read the threads but I need more specific details. I’m planning on buying a newer iMac in the future as soon as I’ve saved up the money but that’s a ways off. In the meantime, I would like to install a second 1TB SSD for additional, fast workspace and to be able to install other versions of the macOS on additional partitions. I’m trying to work out exactly what I would need to do this and what it would cost so that I can make an informed decision. Ideally I would replace the 512GB Apple SSD with a 1TB but they’re simply too expensive and I already have a 1TB 2.5” SSD (Samsung EVO 850) on hand. Note that I do not want or need an internal HDD. I have external drives for large amounts of storage. The specifics: I have a 27" 2015 iMac with a 512GB SSD. It’s my understanding that this particular build (SSD but no HDD) has a SATA connector on the logic board but all of the remaining parts for the HDD bay are missing. This includes: SATA data/power cableDrive brackets and screwsThe “pin” screws that go on the drive itself Is this correct? Am I missing anything? I have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the installaton. I know what upgrade kit to buy from OWC: “pizza cutter”, adhesive tapes, 3.5" to 2.5" bracket, thermal sensor, etc. Thanks in advance. Update (06/01/2019) Mission Accomplished! Short version: as expected the SATA cable was missing but the HDD brackets were in place. I didn’t have the mounting pins but we managed to get some regular screws to fit in the rubber grommets snugly. It won’t be vibrating loose. Also, I ended up installing a 500GB SSD instead of the 1TB which I found another use for. Here are some pictures and more details: https://www.astarcloseup.com/2019/05/201… Thanks to everyone for your help!
The guide shows you everything you will need: iMac Intel 27" (Late 2012-2019) SSD Upgrade Kit iMac Intel 27" 5K (Late 2014-Mid 2015) Hard Drive Cable iMac Intel 27" Retina 5K Display Hard Drive Replacement
Yes the list is good to go. If you really want to, you could get a PC power supply for the SSD, since SATA power and data cables are separate.
