Mac Pro (#3): RAM specifications and clarifications; Noise levels; RAM shipment delays; Take-apart pictures

RAM specifications and clarifications The Mac Pro uses 667MHz DDR2 ECC fully-buffered DIMM (FB-DIMM) memory. it has Eight FB-DIMM slots on two memory riser cards (4 slots per card) supporting up to 16GB of main memory

Apple also has posted a special notice indicating that specially designed FB-DIMM's are required for optimum noise and heat reduction:

"Please note: Apple created a more robust thermal specification for the Mac Pro FB-DIMM heat sinks that provide more efficient cooling than many other FB-DIMMs. These FB-DIMMs require less airflow to stay cool and allow the internal fans to spin at slower speeds, improving system acoustics. FB-DIMMs made by other manufacturers that do not include a sufficient heat sink may cause the fans to run faster (and louder) or the memory chips to run slower so as not to overheat."

Some users have lamented the use riser cards in the system, which makes installing memory more difficult, and can potentially cause a speed hindrance compared to memory installed directly on the logic board.

Noise levels Several MacFixIt readers describe the new Mac Pro as much quieter than the PowerMac G5 it replaces. As noted by one reader:

"Aside from the drive noise, this unit is relatively silent when compared to the G5."

RAM shipment delays Some users are reporting a delay in receiving additional RAM ordered with their Mac Pro at the time of purchase. In other words, some users are receiving their Mac Pros with the standard 1 GB of RAM and a note indicating that the rest of their memory will ship shortly.

Take-apart pictures Powermax has posted several take-apart pictures of the Mac Pro, depicting system internals (including the processors, fans, drive bays and more), the huge heat sink, the RAM riser cards and more.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Previous coverage:

• Mac Pro technical notes: Processors are upgradeable, model string identifier, more
• Mac Pro introduced (notes from Keynote): Ships today, Up to Dual dual-core 3 GHz, more

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