iMac Late 2009

Initially launched as a "build-to-order" option for the iMac "Core i5" 2.66 27-Inch (Late 2009), the iMac "Core i7" 2.8 27-Inch (Late 2009) was later also available as a standard configuration. Besides the processor, the two models are identical.

This iMac is powered by a 2.8 GHz Quad Core Intel "Core i7" I7-860 (Lynnfield/Nehalem) processor, with a dedicated 256k L2 cache per core and an 8 MB shared L3 cache. Its default setup includes 4 GB of RAM (1066 MHz PC3-8500 DDR3 SDRAM), a 1 TB (7200 RPM) hard drive, a vertical slot-loading DVD±R DL "SuperDrive", and ATI Radeon HD 4850 graphics with 512 MB of dedicated GDDR3 memory.

It also features a built-in iSight camera and stereo speakers beneath the 27" glossy 16:9 LED-backlit TFT Active Matrix LCD (2560x1440 native) with "IPS technology". Connectivity options comprise four USB 2.0 ports, a Firewire "800" port, integrated AirPort Extreme, and Gigabit Ethernet, along with a Mini DisplayPort that supports an external display up to 30" (2560x1600). This model can also function as an external display for DisplayPort-equipped devices using adapters.

The "Late 2009" iMac line resembles earlier Aluminum models but introduces an "edge-to-edge" glass design and a "seamless all aluminum enclosure," a change from previous models which had a visible aluminum bezel and a plastic back. Enhancements include LED-backlit displays with "IPS technology" for better quality, four RAM slots supporting up to 16 GB (up from two slots/8 GB), an SD Card slot, and redesigned speakers for improved audio. These models shipped with a compact aluminum Apple Wireless Keyboard and the innovative multi-touch "Magic Mouse." A new aluminum remote was also offered for an additional US$19.

As the top-tier quad-core iMac, this machine was the only option offering the benefits of Hyper-Threading, thanks to its Core i7 processor. [5] Its immense multitasking performance, derived from 4 cores and 8 threads, garnered tremendous support from users demanding the absolute best performance, such as professional video editors and 3D artists. Combined with its beautiful 27-inch display and the unique Target Display Mode feature, this model was regarded as the pinnacle of all-in-one PCs at the time. [17, 21] Barring some reported display issues on certain units, it was truly the ultimate iMac. [5, 23]