My 5-year-old Mac 8500 has been gradually slowing down. At first I though it just seemed slower, compared to the newer, faster computers at work. Now, it’s become obviously slower - especially when opening and closing windows or files, there can be a delay of several seconds.
Is there a quick fix for this? Is it just normal aging, or could this be caused by a virus? I really don’t want to sink much money into a computer this old, but other than this problem, it’s still in great working order.
Clear some space on the hard drive (a full drive slows things down).
Delete or turn off unnecessary extensions (many programs add extensions and they can build up over time) (your computer works harder to handle more extensions at once).
Keep in mind that newer programs require faster processors and more RAM. Your older programs should be ok.
Optimize your hard-drive. This can make a HUGE difference on an older computer if you haven’t done regular disk mantainence. And if you’re using newer software then you’ve got a big processing gap that you’ll not overcome except for chucking that pupply and getting one of them cube thingys…crazy Apple computers are more conversation pieces than computers now.
It could be the power supply.
The function of it is to convert AC that comes from the wall outlet into DC, which is what the computer uses. Over time (like 5 years), the wiring within the power supply will wear and become less resistive allowing more AC than usual.
When the computer components receive alternating current (AC), it can have a very adverse affect on them. They run on either 5 or 12 volts DC, with very little room for fluctuation (about 0.1V), so when that voltage is constantly in flux, the circuits will short, or overheat, causing a slowdown in performance.
The circuits aren’t designed for anything more than 5 or 12 V. Anything more will cause a short. And anything less will cause the component to not function at all, or at the very least, function at a substandard rate.
In a PC, when the power supply has gone bad, it can be replaced for $15 to $20. Now, with Macs, I don’t know very much about Mac hardware and customization, so I don’t know if you can just swap a faulty power supply for a new one. But if you can, you might want to look into that.
That is, of course, after you’ve optimized the HD and examined the software that requires more processing power than what your Mac can deliver.