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Mac Mini mid 2011 second hard drive clarification?

I have the low end mini, comes with the 2.3 Gz dual core i5, integrated intel 3000 HD graphics and a 500GB HDD. I'm upgrading to 8GB of RAM, but would like to add an SSD as the boot drive, set up for a dual boot mode. I know that I can do it on this machine, but the only specific instruction I have found (for my model) details simply how to replace the hard drive with an SSD. I would also like to keep the stock platter drive as a secondary volume for storage. I notice that apple does not list this version with any options for two hard drives . . . I'm thinking that this makes sense, they want to push to the more expensive model, but also see some potential for problems. Perhaps there is a different logic board with no secondary SATA connector . . . or perhaps the cage that the second hard drive mounts in is not included . . . I'm not sure but thought perhaps someone here would know, and I'd like some confirmation before I spend the money on the kit with the cable, grommets and set screws. Thanks . . . Paul

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Oh, a couple of details I left out: the bottom of the case indicates A1347 as the model number . . . but I'm thinking that the other dual core i5 model shows that same model number, and that the os indicates the model is Macmini5,1.

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Hey Paul, I'd love to clear up all your concerns. In a nutshell, you most certainly can install an SSD as a second drive in your Mid 2011 Mac Mini. The guide for your Mini actually is showing how to install a second hard drive. In the beginning of the guide, you are removing the first hard drive to get to the spot where you can install the second one. As you progress through the guide, we show you how to install the second hard drive. As with all of our guides, you must then follow it in reverse to reassemble the device. During this reassembly, you will reinstall the first hard drive on top of the second one.

As for Apple not selling a dual hard drive edition of this size Mini, your assumptions are absolutely correct. However, we installed a second one on the exact same model that you have and it worked beautifully.

Hope this helps!

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Paul Gibson will be eternally grateful.