iMac 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo 24-inch (Al)

Aluminum | 2.66GHz Intel | 24-inch

There are two 2.66MHz models in the Early 2009 iMac series. This 24-inch model and an entry-level 20-inch 2.66GHz iMac. The four models in the series represent the third refresh of the aluminum iMac. It has been 309 days since the previous Early 2008 iMac update.

The new Mac Pro that was introduced on the same day is powered by the Intel “Nehalem” Xeon processor. Despite the hopeful rumors making the usual rounds before an update, the iMac did not use the Intel Core i7, but faster Intel Core 2 Duo processors instead.

The 6MB L2 cache, 1066MHz frontside bus and 8x SuperDrive with 4x double-layer burning remains the same as the previous iMac series – but Apple has dropped default ATI graphics for Nvidia graphics and chipsets. These are the first default Nvidia graphics in iMacs since the original G5 iMac “Chin” models debuted back on August 31, 2004.

This 24-inch model has a glossy widescreen TFT active-matrix LCD with 1920 by 1200 pixels and the Nvidea GeForce 9400M with 256MB of DDR3 SDRAM. This is the same graphics as the 20-inch base model and neither has video configure-to-order options.

All three 24-inch models in this series include 4GB memory (two 2GB SO-DIMMs) with support for up to 8GB of 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM. The standard hard drive size is 640GB with an optional upgrade to 1TB available. An optional VESA mount adapter kit is available for the 24-inch models.

Each model also includes a built-in iSight camera, Mini DisplayPort output with support for DVI, dual-link DVI, VGA video connections via adapter, one FireWire 800 port and six USB 2.0 ports (counting the two on the wired keyboard). All models also include built-in stereo speakers with 24-watt digital amplifier, built-in microphone, optical digital audio output/headphone out and optical digital audio input/output.

Wireless connectivity is provided with built-in with AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi (802.11n), Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) and IR receiver and Ethernet by 10/100/1000BASE-T (Gigabit).

Unfortunately, the white Mighty Mouse didn’t get replaced but the default keyboard is a new compact, wired keyboard lacking a number pad. Buyers may still opt for the full size with number pad, if preferred.

Mac OS X v10.5 Leopard and iLife ‘09 are included, along with the usual ton of Apple software. Some of the included applications are iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD, iWeb, GarageBand, Mail, iChat, Safari, Address Book, QuickTime, iCal, DVD Player, Photo Booth, Front Row and Xcode Developer Tools.

The iMac is rated EPEAT Gold and meets Energy Star 5.0 requirements, including arsenic-free display glass and highly recyclable aluminum and glass enclosures.

The other three models in this series are the 20-inch 2.66GHz iMac base model and two other 24-inch models — the 2.93GHz iMac and flagship 3.06GHz iMac.

distinguishing features

Aluminum case with flush glass display and matching aluminum keyboard.

system software

Mac OS X v10.5.6 Leopard

etymology

[1] iMac: From Internet + Mac

[2] The “i” in iMac originally stood for Internet but eventually developed into a marketing symbol for a wide range of Apple products.

[3] The “Al” or “AL” often seen appended to models in this series denotes the aluminum case.

design

Photo credit: Apple