2009 iMac with Linux operating system
2009 iMac with Linux operating system
Hello, I'm working on setting up Linux on an old iMac with inconsistent results. I've managed to install Ubuntu, but the screen often tears. Attempting Manjaro has led to crashes or endless waiting during startup. I've also tried macOS, but it doesn't seem to work and the CD purchase feels like a waste. From what I understand, graphics drivers are likely the problem. I've used generic drivers without success and tried disabling modeset, which caused further issues. On Ubuntu, AMD drivers didn't boot properly. With the specs you mentioned—27" iMac, late 2009 model, i7-860, 8GB RAM—I'm hoping for a stable desktop environment without these visual glitches.
Old AMD cards can be frustrating – using the Mesa driver might work, but speed won’t be ideal.
I restored MacOS on the iMac using the USB from the VM. I’m not sure about sharing a download link, but it’s simple to search for similar guides if needed.
Hello, it's odd since I've almost the same configuration and don't see the screen tearing (Linux Mint on the machine, but Ubuntu too). Did you install the correct AMD drivers?