Build a Mac Computer on a PC Platform
Building a computer is a challenging process that takes patience and hard work. Building a Mac computer using PC components takes just a little bit more. The biggest issue when doing this is understanding the legal issues. According to the "Apple Software License Agreement for Mac OS X" for 10.5 Leopard states under Permitted License Uses and Restrictions: "You agree not to install, use or run the Apple Software on any non-Apple-labeled computer, or to enable others to do so." For that reason, the instructions below detail build one using all hardware and components that can be purchased. Building a "Hackintosh" often involves stolen items or software that has been manipulated. This is a way around all of that.
Instructions
build a Mac Computer on a PC Platform
1. Decide what your computer will be used for. This will help you determine how fast your computer needs to be and what components you need to buy. Computers built for surfing the net and doing spread sheets do not need the latest components. Your budget dictates partially which components you buy. Higher end needs require higher end components.
2. Choose your components. Go to the Efi-x website for an up-to-date listing of components that are compatible with the Efi-x. When choosing components, remember to take a look at the big picture and pick components that work together. Start with the processor and motherboard. Make sure the socket size of the processor matches the motherboard. Next, choose the RAM. Make sure the model and size is supported by your motherboard. Finally, pick out your video card and SATA DVD ROM drive.
3. Assemble your computer. The assembly for this computer is the same as it would be for assembling a PC. Read all of your manuals and follow the manufacture's instructions for all components while assembling. Start with the motherboard. Attach the processor, and depending on its size, the CPU cooler. Next, install the RAM. Insert the motherboard into the case and screw it down making sure to align the standoffs. Install the hard drives and your SATA DVD ROM drive. Install the video card, and hook everything up to your power supply. Install the Efi-x. It is important to hook it up to your USB1 header on your motherboard. Do not plug the Efi-x the outside of the case, it is designed for internal use. It comes with an extender in case you don't have enough room near your motherboard.
4. Set the BIOS. Enter BIOS by pressing DEL during POST. BIOS settings are different in each motherboard, but there are a few standard settings: Set the boot drive to "USBHDD0" and change the boot priority so that the "EFIX Booting Device" is on the top and is the first to boot from. Change all other boot devices to "Disabled". Change HPET to 64‐bit. Disable IDE (PATA). Disable the Serial port. Disable the Parallel port. Disable AHCI during OS X operating system installation (you can enable it after installation If necessary.) Enable USB mouse and keyboard. Be sure to save before exiting.
5. Install OS X. Your computer will restart when you exit BIOS. After a few seconds you will have a Efi-x graphical boot-loader appear. You will have a few seconds to pick which drive you wish to boot from. For your first time, pick the icon representing your SATA DVD ROM drive. Insert a retail copy of OS X (cannot be a version that came with a mac computer.) Follow instructions on the screen to load the OS. You may need to format your drive to MAC OS Extended (Journaled). You can also install Windows from the boot-loader, though it is important to visit the website and understand the limitations of the product.
Tags: components that, Computer Platform, SATA drive, your motherboard, Apple Software, boot from, Build Computer