Can you disable the optical drive totally

thank you, (machead3) for your answer. i have already purchased a new optical drive to replace. i have never taken an imac apart totally but the guides are very well written and i believe i can do this with no problem. if you can think of any issues that might be of concern tearing it down,,i'd appreciate it if you could forward hem to me. before this one i had a (imac a1076) that was a great machine. one day it just failed boot up and the light in front is very dim and weak, doesn't even try to boot. as i was looking for the drive i just bbought i thought i might try and put in a new power supply. it's been under my desk for a year. be nice to get machine a going as well for my grand daughter. thanks again

Study not just read the proper guide and notes (comments from users) before you begin. Purchase any recommended tools every job is easier when you use the proper tool. Know how to correctly disconnect connectors so you don't tear them off the logic board (first most common beginner DIY error). Take pictures and keep all screws labeled clearly - I affix them to sheets of paper (printed out guide) using double sticky-tape so I know which screw cam from where, and where it goes back (second most common beginner DIY error putting to long a screw in a hole and damaging/shorting the logic board). Ensure at reassembly that all connectors are square and firmly seated, ribbon cables right side up, cams locked down (third most common beginner DIY error).