3rd party RAM?

[badlydrawnboy]

Anyone know where (if anywhere) it's possible to buy 3rd party RAM for the new MP?

[chameleon]

I checked OWC, Crucial and Kingston this morning. None have a part that's an exact match for the specs on Apple's site.

I'm sure they'll all carry it eventually, but not at the moment...

[badlydrawnboy]

Probably going to be pretty expensive, too. Adding 2 1GB modules CTO at Apple is $450! I know 3rd party is usually much cheaper, but that doesn't bode well at all.

[sdhollman]

hmm, i think crucial had some a little while ago and it was more than 667 but not that much.

[badlydrawnboy]

hmm, i think crucial had some a little while ago and it was more than 667 but not that much.

That's a relief. I talked to someone at Mac Sales, and they told me to check back on Thursday or Friday.

[CanadaRAM]

At least one of our suppliers will start shipping the 800 MHz FB-DIMMs on Thursday. These also have the large finned heatsinks, so the Crucial and Kingston KVR 800 MHz FB-DIMMs (with flat heat sinks) will probably not be approved by them for use in the MacPro.

At the moment, prices are 30% - 50% higher than the 667 MHz FBDIMMs, but remember that the 667's have also come down by about 50% in the past 4 months. Pricing will be all over the map until the supply settles out.

[treehorn]

So, CanadaRAM...if one were to get a MacPro now, would you advise biting the bullet and getting at least 4GB of RAM from Apple (Figuring another 4GB when the dust settles from 3rd party) or is it cost effective enough now to get it all from 3rd party?

[yeroen]

Does this mean that the 667Mhz FB-Dimms will come down in price even more? I really hope so.

[CanadaRAM]

No, Apple's RAM prices are insane, CAN$500 for 2 x 1 Gb FBDIMMs (2.5 x third party pricing) and CAN$1500 for 8 Gb (4 x 2) about 2x the current third party prices.

The rule still applies, order a stock configuration with minimum RAM and hard drive from Apple.

Does this mean that the 667Mhz FB-Dimms will come down in price even more? I really hope so.
It doesn't follow. Prices come down when demand goes up, which we have seen in DDR2 RAM lately. Prices plateau or go up when the industry shifts to newer types of RAM and demand slacks off (which is why PC133 RAM for G4's and DDR RAM hasn't come down anywhere near the DDR2 levels, and is now creeping up.)

[bigbird]

Apple's extra RAM (Canadian pricing) works out to $233/GB, based on $466 for an extra 2GB. That's really steep. CanadaRAM, what will your price be?

[CanadaRAM]

Apple's extra RAM (Canadian pricing) works out to $233/GB, based on $466 for an extra 2GB. That's really steep. CanadaRAM, what will your price be?

I'm sorry, we don't do commerce on MacRumors, you'll have to contact me offline.

[bigbird]

I'm sorry, we don't do commerce on MacRumors, you'll have to contact me offline.

Will do shortly. I'm probably ordering a new MP today. Can't decide between the single quad core or the dual quad core. I do video editing with Final Cut Express and the old iMovie HD. Suggestions?

[badlydrawnboy]

Will do shortly. I'm probably ordering a new MP today. Can't decide between the single quad core or the dual quad core. I do video editing with Final Cut Express and the old iMovie HD. Suggestions?

I went with the dual-core, even though it was a stretch. The hardware is ahead of most software, from what I understand (i.e. not too many applications can take advantage of 8-cores). That said, I plan to have this box for the next five years, so when the software catches up I'll be ready!

I have heard that the few applications that CAN take advantage of 8-cores are video and 3D apps. So you should probably go for the dual.

[danielruiz]

Can ram for the last mac pros be used in the new ones or are these completely different? I ask because I had to return my last machine but kept the ram since I bought it from a 3rd party.

[edoates]

The rule still applies, order a stock configuration with minimum RAM and hard drive from Apple.




Question regarding hard drive upgrades from third parties: the new Pro features "direct attach" SATA drives bays. Can you still just buy regular Hitachi (for example) 3.5" SATA drives and plug them in, or is there some special specification needed? OWC sells the Hitachi 1TB "Enterprise Class" drives for $379, so it is about half of Apples pricing.

Thanks for the advice.

Eddie O

[kne0]

Hi this is my first post to the forum.
I am and have been a Mac user long enough to have owned over thirty "mac" laptops starting with the 100 series and at this moment own a MB pro 2.4 and soon will be adding a new one. I have used "Books" and Desktops for "live performance"(music) for over 10 years.

The ONLY place i trust for ram since the G3 days has been
http://www.omnitechnologies.biz/cgi-bin/store/cp-app.cgi

And NO I don't work for them or even really know anyone one specific person there.

[kne0]

"The rule still applies, order a stock configuration with minimum RAM and hard drive from Apple."


Amen...

[kirkbross]

Just bought 6 GB -- macsales.com has it now:

Quantity: 1 OWC64FB1MPK06GB, $369.99 each
6.0GB Mac Pro Memory Matched Pair (1GB x 6) PC6400 DDR2 ECC 800MHz 240 Pin FB-DIMM Modules



Sub-Total: $ 369.99
Tax: $ 0.00
Shipping: $ 7.95
Shipping Insurance: $ 1.50

Grand-Total: $ 379.44

[TheThirdMan]

The ONLY place i trust for ram since the G3 days has been
http://www.omnitechnologies.biz/cgi-...ore/cp-app.cgi

I was about to post that link. Theyre on ebay too, still a really good deal even if you order from the uk.

[badlydrawnboy]

What is the difference between all of those different options? They have 8GB for $399, $479 and $549.

I see the 8x1 vs. 4x2 difference, but what is "Netlist"?

[mrbc19]

Just bought 6 GB -- macsales.com has it now:

Quantity: 1 OWC64FB1MPK06GB, $369.99 each
6.0GB Mac Pro Memory Matched Pair (1GB x 6) PC6400 DDR2 ECC 800MHz 240 Pin FB-DIMM Modules



Sub-Total: $ 369.99
Tax: $ 0.00
Shipping: $ 7.95
Shipping Insurance: $ 1.50

Grand-Total: $ 379.44

I'm not finding this on macsales, they still only show the older memory sticks. Do you have a link??

EDIT: Ah never mind, I just searched for that product number and found it.

[timestamp]

I'm not finding this on macsales, they still only show the older memory sticks. Do you have a link??

EDIT: Ah never mind, I just searched for that product number and found it.

http://eshop.macsales.com/Search/Search.cfm?Ne=5000&Ntt=Mac+Pro&Ntk=Primary&Ns=P_Popularity%7c1&N=7315

[astrostu]

What is the difference between all of those different options? They have 8GB for $399, $479 and $549.

I see the 8x1 vs. 4x2 difference, but what is "Netlist"?

My understanding is the "Netlist" is the one that's actually "certified" as opposed to "qualified" to work in the computer. That's based upon http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/Mac-Pro-Memory

[mrbc19]

Just ordered 6 GB of memory, but now they say it's back ordered - but it does say it should ship on or before Jan. 14th. Let's hope it gets here before the Mac Pro does!

[astrostu]

If you're ordering OWC RAM, be careful and make sure you actually order what you think you're ordering. I'm sure it's just a type-o, that someone copied and pasted from the wrong page, but the 4 GB (2x2GB) Netlist RAM's link says it's 800 MHz, but the specs page (when you click on the link says 633MHz and the EEC is 128M x 72, Dual Rank ECC Module instead of 256M x 72, Dual Rank ECC Module.

Their 8 GB (4x2GB) page says the correct thing ... but you *might* want to wait 'til that's cleared up just in case (if you plan on buying that RAM, as I do).

[Doctor Q]

I've bought RAM from Crucial for years.

Only once did I end up with a RAM chip that had a problem, and their customer service was superb in getting it promptly replaced. Depending on how you look at it, that could make you more or less likely to consider them.

[mrbc19]

My understanding is the "Netlist" is the one that's actually "certified" as opposed to "qualified" to work in the computer. That's based upon http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/Mac-Pro-Memory

So what makes the "apple qualified" ram so much cheaper? Is it worse?

I'd buy the 6 gigs in the "apple certified" version, but it's the only one they don't seem to offer.

[timestamp]

Go with the qualified. The differences have been debated quite a bit around here and at the end of the day, it is not worth the price increase.

[mrbc19]

Yea, I just searched the forum and read some older threads about it. Seems like qualified is just as good.

[dkgross]

I've often bought from http://www.macramdirect.com with great results. Not sure if they have the new stuff yet..but worth a phone call.

[designer22]

I know this is old ground - have read several articles about ideal RAM configurations. This time I have a specific question as I just bought a MacPro today,...finally ditching my XP system.

Bought with standard 2GIG (1GIGx2)
Will buy either 8GIG (2GIGx4) or 12GIG (2GIGx6) to power it up.

If I do the 8GIG addition, and place 2x2 in each upper and lower trays, should I leave the original RAM in, or not use it? If I use it, where would it ideally be placed?

For 12GIG - how to ideally place these? fil top tray first, then 2 in bottom tray? Then place the 1GIG RAM in lower tray as 3&4, or leave out?

Sorry to ask this oft-repeated query, but I'm new to Apple. Thanks for your patience.

[Roy]

No, Apple's RAM prices are insane, CAN$500 for 2 x 1 Gb FBDIMMs (2.5 x third party pricing) and CAN$1500 for 8 Gb (4 x 2) about 2x the current third party prices.

The rule still applies, order a stock configuration with minimum RAM and hard drive from Apple.


It doesn't follow. Prices come down when demand goes up, which we have seen in DDR2 RAM lately. Prices plateau or go up when the industry shifts to newer types of RAM and demand slacks off (which is why PC133 RAM for G4's and DDR RAM hasn't come down anywhere near the DDR2 levels, and is now creeping up.)

What! Doesn't fit any economic theory I've ever heard. So we should be encouraging everyone to drive more and use more gasoline and then the increased demand will cause gasoline prices to drop? I think you are leaving something out.

The high ram prices for this new Mac Pro, because there are only a few producers of the new ram and a shortage of this new ram, will cause other suppliers/producers to want to get into the market and get some of this high profit. Thus as more suppliers produce the new ram and there gets to be a larger supply, then by competition among the suppliers to sell their ram, the prices will fall.

Sorry to be such a stickler on the issue.

[astrostu]

... how to ideally place these? ...

Yes, this has been asked a lot but I can't remember the thread. I downloaded this schematic from the last one.

[rockinrocker]

does that chart hold for the new model, though?

[splitsplat]

On the Apple site when I went to customize my RAM, in the learn more they write:

"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."

Does anything think there would be an issue buying from the 3rd party vendors? I am pretty dumb when it comes to this...

[astrostu]

does that chart hold for the new model, though?

No idea, but I don't see why it wouldn't. Isn't the basic architecture the same?

The Mac Pro (Early 2008) manual states:

Two DIMMs (standard configuration): One on the top memory card and one on the bottom card

Four DIMMs: One pair on the top memory card and one pair on the bottom card

Six DIMMs: Two pairs on the top memory card and one pair on the bottom card

Eight DIMMs: Two pairs on the top memory card and two pairs on the bottom card

On the Apple site when I went to customize my RAM, in the learn more they write:

"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."

Does anything think there would be an issue buying from the 3rd party vendors? I am pretty dumb when it comes to this...

Apple's been saying this since the MacPro first came out in August '06. Hence the whole difference between OWC's "certified" vs. "qualified," etc.

[timestamp]

Apple's been saying this since the MacPro first came out in August '06. Hence the whole difference between OWC's "certified" vs. "qualified," etc.

I don't think that is the case with OWC. The "qualified" modules have the same heatsink as the memory Apple gives.

The "certified" or Netlist modules have a more advanced heatsink which makes them cost more.

The modules that give the problems are the ones with heatspreaders and not actual heatsinks. OWC qualified RAM should work just fine in the Mac Pro without causing any issues.

[appleguru1]

FWIW, my ram vendor of choice for the last 8 years or so has been DMS ( http://www.datamemorysystems.com/ ).. They ship out of New Hampshire and offer free shipping.. I've always gotten good prices and customer service too :)

(They don't appear to have the new ram for these mac pros yet tho)

[timestamp]

Hey, looks like transintl isn't done updating there site yet. Anyone want to buy 32GB of RAM for $999? :D You can get it in a 8x16GB configuration!!!

http://www.transintl.com/store/category.cfm?Category=2726&CFID=124236&CFTOKEN=71030154&RequestTimeOut=500

[zmunkz]

On the Apple site when I went to customize my RAM, in the learn more they write:

"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."

Does anything think there would be an issue buying from the 3rd party vendors? I am pretty dumb when it comes to this...

I suspect this is just to discourage you from purchasing from another vendor. But if you are worried, you can pick up a couple of these and still save a ton of money:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835118220

or

http://www.frozencpu.com/products/3275/ram-09/Aluminum_Black_DDR_Heat_Spreader.html

[MrT8064]

In the UK the best place to get MacBook/Pro/iMac Ram is play.com

a single 2gb chip will cost £27.99
the ram is good too, Kingston - with a lifetime warranty

[robbieduncan]

In the UK the best place to get MacBook/Pro/iMac Ram is play.com

a single 2gb chip will cost £27.99
the ram is good too, Kingston - with a lifetime warranty

Doesn't look like that's true for the Mac Pro: they only have 2x2Gb or 2x1Gb at vastly overinflated prices for the old Mac Pro, nothing for the new Mac Pro. Do a search for FB-DIMM.

[whenpaulsparks]

What! Doesn't fit any economic theory I've ever heard. So we should be encouraging everyone to drive more and use more gasoline and then the increased demand will cause gasoline prices to drop? I think you are leaving something out.

The high ram prices for this new Mac Pro, because there are only a few producers of the new ram and a shortage of this new ram, will cause other suppliers/producers to want to get into the market and get some of this high profit. Thus as more suppliers produce the new ram and there gets to be a larger supply, then by competition among the suppliers to sell their ram, the prices will fall.

Sorry to be such a stickler on the issue.

I agree, but what he said is only partially true. Prices go down when supply goes up, just look at the housing market now. Prices go up when demand is high and supply is low, look at the PS3 last christmas. Those are examples where supply is relatively inelastic, as in if they could (or would) churn out millions of PS3's overnight, it would drive the price down, but they can't. In both examples you're deviating from the equilibrium price, so that's why those "markets" are in turmoil at the time. as far as memory goes, once more supply hits the market, demand is expected to go up, which will drive prices down.

[Black&Tan]

I came across this technical article yesterday:

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304235

I have never seen a similar heat sink in any of my Macs. Are these the same heat sinks available on 3rd party RAM?

[Roy]

I came across this technical article yesterday:

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304235

I have never seen a similar heat sink in any of my Macs. Are these the same heat sinks available on 3rd party RAM?


Looks to be the same as what has been installed in the Mac Pro by Apple since the introduction of the Mac Pro in August of 2006.

[chameleon]

Just out of curiosity, does anyone know where to get the exact RAM that Apple installs? It's made by Samsung, right? Someone must carry it. I doubt Samsung makes unique RAM modules just for Apple.

My guess is that you can get the exact same RAM from someone else, just without the Apple 300% markup.

[mozmac]

I was about to post that link. Theyre on ebay too, still a really good deal even if you order from the uk.

No offense, but is there anyone here who's been on MacRumors Forums for a while that can verify the integrity of this place? The two people that posted it are both newbies.

Just checking my sources before I spend the cash.

[yeroen]

Just out of curiosity, does anyone know where to get the exact RAM that Apple installs? It's made by Samsung, right? Someone must carry it. I doubt Samsung makes unique RAM modules just for Apple.

My guess is that you can get the exact same RAM from someone else, just without the Apple 300% markup.

The actual DDR and AMB chip manufacturers vary. The sticker on the 512MB FB-DIMMS that came stock with my MP are made by Nanya.

Others have Hynix or Infineon. In short, it'd be a waste of time trying to track down the exact RAM that Apple uses in the MP. What you can do is install RAM that performs exactly as well (I have 4GB of OWC RAM..manufactured by Infineon, perhaps with a Samsung AMB chip??).

I'm very happy with OWC, but would today just as happily buy from Crucial (= Micron..they actually manufacture the RAM they sell).

[MacPeach]

Does the warranty (3 year Apple Care Plan) fail, if I use 3rd party RAM?

I just ordered 8GB at
http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/64FB2GD8GBK/

Thanks for your feedback

[Nugget]

Does the warranty (3 year Apple Care Plan) fail, if I use 3rd party RAM?

Absolutely not. Worst case AppleCare will require you to reproduce any problem you've experienced with the third party RAM removed (so hang on to that factory 2GB), to verify that it isn't causing the problem, but your warranty will be otherwise unaffected.

[zdobson]

Does the warranty (3 year Apple Care Plan) fail, if I use 3rd party RAM?

I just ordered 8GB at
http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/64FB2GD8GBK/

Thanks for your feedback

Your warranty is still good as long as the RAM is certified by Apple, which OWC is. This also applies to hard drives, video cards and optical drives. If you have any questions about whether a certain product is certified, you can contact apple care and they'll let you know.

[absolution]

If I buy an additional 4GB of RAM 3rd party, can I just add it to the machine keeping the 2GB that came with it for a total of 6GB? Or is that not OK? On the BTO page Apple only offers 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB and 32GB as memory upgrade options. Just want to make sure I can trick it out with 6GB. Thanks!

[rockinrocker]

If I buy an additional 4GB of RAM 3rd party, can I just add it to the machine keeping the 2GB that came with it for a total of 6GB? Or is that not OK? On the BTO page Apple only offers 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB and 32GB as memory upgrade options. Just want to make sure I can trick it out with 6GB. Thanks!

yeah, that should be fine. just install it in pairs.

[bnp]

[QUOTE=astrostu;4718416]If you're ordering OWC RAM, be careful .
Yes, be careful to get name branded memory, not "no name" or OWC branded.
Had a problem last year with memory for the MacBook (Intel) .Specs were correct but the modules were noticeably too thick to fit into the laptop.
Got some push back from the company but OWC did promptly replace the RAM , this time with a brand (Kingston) which fit perfectly.

Have had similar mixed experiences with OWC previously BUT have to say they plopped in a new battery for my 3G iPod in no time and flawless work with a nice note from the techie in the return box.

But my own advice, to myself and others is to purchase branded RAM even if it is a few pence higher than "generic" RAM.

Have fun with your new Tower. I am impatiently waiting to see what new MacBook PROs may lie ahead.. so I can get one.

[rockinrocker]

At least one of our suppliers will start shipping the 800 MHz FB-DIMMs on Thursday. These also have the large finned heatsinks, so the Crucial and Kingston KVR 800 MHz FB-DIMMs (with flat heat sinks) will probably not be approved by them for use in the MacPro.

At the moment, prices are 30% - 50% higher than the 667 MHz FBDIMMs, but remember that the 667's have also come down by about 50% in the past 4 months. Pricing will be all over the map until the supply settles out.

so the ram from owc has the flat heat sinks, does that mean there would be a problem using it?
if so, is there another domestic suppliers that we know have the fanned heat sinks?

and i couldn't even find any with the right specs on the omni site....

[absolution]

yeah, that should be fine. just install it in pairs.

Awesome. Thanks!

[mogrefy]

so the ram from owc has the flat heat sinks, does that mean there would be a problem using it?
if so, is there another domestic suppliers that we know have the fanned heat sinks?

and i couldn't even find any with the right specs on the omni site....

Where does it say OWC uses flat heat sinks? The text you quoted was other manufacturers... I'm pretty sure OWC does not sell Mac Pro RAM with the small/flat heat sinks.

[rockinrocker]

Where does it say OWC uses flat heat sinks? The text you quoted was other manufacturers... I'm pretty sure OWC does not sell Mac Pro RAM with the small/flat heat sinks.

the pictures right here:

http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/53FB2GD4GBK/

[timestamp]

the pictures right here:

http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/53FB2GD4GBK/

Those are not flat in the way you are thinking. Scroll down a bit, those are actually the more expensive Netlist modules or the "certified" modules. They are actually supposed to run cooler than the "qualified."

Take a look at the top of this page: http://eshop.macsales.com/Reviews/Framework.cfm?page=Tips/fbdimms/fbdimms.html

Those are flat heatsinks, or better known as heatspreaders.

[rockinrocker]

ahhhhh, ok.

so if anything, those are supposedly better? and either way, both would be fine?
(thanks for clearing that up for me)

and also, if they're supposed to run cooler, i wonder if they'd make enough of a difference to save a little fan noise....
(i'll be using mine for home recording)

[MacPeach]

Thank you very much for your answers and suggestions regarding the warranty! Appreciated!

[PeerDK]

I can't seem to find the right type of RAM over here in Denmark. Does anyone have a link to a shop inside the EU?

Or can someone tell me if this will work? http://www.getmore.dk/templates/imw-product.asp?ProductGuid=KHX6400D2LLK2%2F4G

It says :
DIMM 240-pin - DDR II - 800 MHz / PC2-6400 - CL4 - 2 V

[CanadaRAM]

I can't seem to find the right type of RAM over here in Denmark. Does anyone have a link to a shop inside the EU?

Or can someone tell me if this will work? http://www.getmore.dk/templates/imw-product.asp?ProductGuid=KHX6400D2LLK2%2F4G

It says :
DIMM 240-pin - DDR II - 800 MHz / PC2-6400 - CL4 - 2 V

No this will not work: Once again, it has to be a FB-DIMM -- Fully Buffered DIMM. Just being a DDR2 DIMM is not enough.

You will probably have to wait a couple of days before vendors start listing it.
Memory manufacturers do not get any advance notice of Mac introductions, they found out the specs the same time the rest of us did.

[mogrefy]

the pictures right here:

http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/53FB2GD4GBK/

I was under the impression he was talking "flat" as in the heat sinks you see on regular system RAM often seen in PC systems. But, to counter the case you're making, here's a picture that isn't "flat" from your perspective of flat...

http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/64FB4MPK16GB/

[Lumpydog]

No idea, but I don't see why it wouldn't. Isn't the basic architecture the same?

The Mac Pro (Early 2008) manual states:

Two DIMMs (standard configuration): One on the top memory card and one on the bottom card

Four DIMMs: One pair on the top memory card and one pair on the bottom card

Six DIMMs: Two pairs on the top memory card and one pair on the bottom card

Eight DIMMs: Two pairs on the top memory card and two pairs on the bottom card


I fired up my new Mac Pro today - opened her up and the 2GBs of memory: One on each memory card. Looks like the RAM config chart posted earlier does not apply to the early 2008 model MPs.

So... I just ordered 2 2GB memory chips from OWC (4 extra GB for a total of 6GB). I'm guessing I install the new (Two 2GB chips) as a pair on one card and the original OEM (Two 1GB chips) on the other. The question is, does it matter which pair is on the top or the bottom!?

[Roy]

I fired up my new Mac Pro today - opened her up and the 2GBs of memory: One on each memory card. Looks like the RAM config chart posted earlier does not apply to the early 2008 model MPs.

So... I just ordered 2 2GB memory chips from OWC (4 extra GB for a total of 6GB). I'm guessing I install the new (Two 2GB chips) as a pair on one card and the original OEM (Two 1GB chips) on the other. The question is, does it matter which pair is on the top or the bottom!?


Now that IS different. I would be interested to see the memory is in the new Mac Pros (early 2008) from other new Mac Pro owners.

[bigbird]

The question is, does it matter which pair is on the top or the bottom!?

Don't you have the manual with your new MP?
If you lost it or used it for toilet paper, here's the link:
http://manuals.info.apple.com/en/Mac_Pro_Early_2008.pdf

Read p.44-48 in the manual. It explains it all.

[Roy]

Don't you have the manual with your new MP?
If you lost it or used it for toilet paper, here's the link:
http://manuals.info.apple.com/en/Mac_Pro_Early_2008.pdf

Read p.44-48 in the manual. It explains it all.

If you have.............Install
Two DIMMs.............One on the top memory card and one on the bottom card
(standard config)

Four DIMMs.............One pair on the top memory card and one pair on the bottom card

Six DIMMs..............Two pairs on the top memory card and one pair on the bottom card

Eight DIMMs............Two pairs on the top memory card and two pairs on the bottom card

[MrPDaddyHimself]

Can anyone confirm that the RAM OWC is selling for the new Mac Pro has the following specs? I dont see full specs that match.

• Fully buffered dual inline memory modules (FB-DIMMs)
• PC2-6400, 800 MHz, DDR2, FB-DIMMs
• DIMMs must be installed in matched pairs of equal size and equal specification
(an equal number of ICs per DIMM)
• Eight DIMM slots available (four slots per memory card)
• Error-correcting code (ECC)
• 72-bit wide, 240-pin modules
• 36 ICs maximum per DIMM
• Contains an Apple-approved heat sink (for best acoustic performance)
• Conforms to JEDEC specification (see page 43)
• Maximum height of 31 mm
• Nonparity

Also, I've seen where some people are suggesting not to buy the Netlist Apple Certified RAM but to buy the Quality RAM OWC offers instead due to the fact that they run too hot? Is this really the case? If so, why would they even sell the Netlist rated RAM? I have some time before having to buy RAM. I'd rather buy from Kingston or someone with a name. Can somebody shed some light on the real deal at OWC? Or, anywhere else for that matter? Or is it just too early? Thanks.

[chameleon]

If you have.............Install
Two DIMMs.............One on the top memory card and one on the bottom card
(standard config)

Four DIMMs.............One pair on the top memory card and one pair on the bottom card

Six DIMMs..............Two pairs on the top memory card and one pair on the bottom card

Eight DIMMs............Two pairs on the top memory card and two pairs on the bottom card

I think the question is, if I understand it properly, should the two 1Gb cards be on top, and the two 2Gb cards be on bottom, or the reverse.

Or doesn't it matter?

From looking at the old diagram, the 2Gb cards should be on top.

From the manual excerpt posted here, it seems that it does not matter.

[designer22]

Just got an email back from Crucial - new MacPro RAM may not be available from them for up to 3 weeks...OWC is only place that seems to have it right now.

[badlydrawnboy]

Just got an email back from Crucial - new MacPro RAM may not be available from them for up to 3 weeks...OWC is only place that seems to have it right now.

I ordered from OWC two days ago... hasn't shipped yet, though.

[rockinrocker]

i went ahead and ordered mine from OWC last night. i went ahead and paid for second day shipping but haven't gotten confirmation yet.

[cotterg3]

Excellent info here. I have a question which I didn't immediately see answered already.

I ordered a 2.8 Ghz 8 core mac pro with 4 x 1 gb of memory. I would like to upgrade to 8 gigs of memory. From what I gather reading the responses here, this would best be done with the existing 4x1gb + 2x2gb memory sticks.

Out of curiosity, is there any difference in performance using an 8x1 gb config vs. 4x1 gb + 2x2gb config vs. a 4x2gb config?

In the case that there is no real difference, and I end up with 4x1 gb and 2x2gb (3 pairs total, 2 on top and 1 on the bottom), does the placement of the 2x2 gb pair make a difference (as asked above in afew places)?

Thanks so much guys!

[zdobson]

Excellent info here. I have a question which I didn't immediately see answered already.

I ordered a 2.8 Ghz 8 core mac pro with 4 x 1 gb of memory. I would like to upgrade to 8 gigs of memory. From what I gather reading the responses here, this would best be done with the existing 4x1gb + 2x2gb memory sticks.

Out of curiosity, is there any difference in performance using an 8x1 gb config vs. 4x1 gb + 2x2gb config vs. a 4x2gb config?

In the case that there is no real difference, and I end up with 4x1 gb and 2x2gb (3 pairs total, 2 on top and 1 on the bottom), does the placement of the 2x2 gb pair make a difference (as asked above in afew places)?

Thanks so much guys!

Personally, I wouldn't (and didn't) order the new MP with more than the standard 2GB RAM. 4x1GB takes up half of your RAM slots. Check out these RAM prices: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/Mac-Pro-Memory

For $400 you can add 8GB to the standard 2GB for a total of 10GB! All for less than you would pay for a total of 4GB from Apple. Just a thought. Not too late to change.

[MrPDaddyHimself]

Did OWC's pricing change for the New Mac Pro RAM? I could of sworn it was cheaper this morning? Dangit...

[timestamp]

Did OWC's pricing change for the New Mac Pro RAM? I could of sworn it was cheaper this morning? Dangit...

Looks like the pricing on the certified increased. The 8GB (2GB sticks) kit was $549, it is now $659.

The qualified 8GB kit is still $399 like it was when they first listed them.

[mopsie]

I noticed on macsales that for 8 GB of RAM the cost is $479 for 8x1 gb, and $399 for 4x2 gb,... why is it cheaper to save space? Isn't it better to have 2 GB in each slot?

[CanadaRAM]

A number of sellers have the parts teed up in their catalogs, but it doesn't mean they actually have the physical modules. Nobody will start shipping them to customers for 1 to 3 weeks.

The prices will jockey around like mad for the next couple of weeks until supply gets settled down. 1 Gb FBDIMMs will be scarce because none of the manufacturers want to use up their supply of boards and heatsinks on the cheapest modules.

There shouldn't be any problem with the Netlist DIMMs running hot - they have a substantial heatsink on them.

[rockinrocker]

A number of sellers have the parts teed up in their catalogs, but it doesn't mean they actually have the physical modules. Nobody will start shipping them to customers for 1 to 3 weeks.

The prices will jockey around like mad for the next couple of weeks until supply gets settled down. 1 Gb FBDIMMs will be scarce because none of the manufacturers want to use up their supply of boards and heatsinks on the cheapest modules.

There shouldn't be any problem with the Netlist DIMMs running hot - they have a substantial heatsink on them.

that's kind of annoying. i think they should make it clear whether or not they have the modules in stock prior to them being bought and paid for.
hopefully OWC is one of the first ones to actually get them in stock....

[CanadaRAM]

What! Doesn't fit any economic theory I've ever heard. So we should be encouraging everyone to drive more and use more gasoline and then the increased demand will cause gasoline prices to drop? I think you are leaving something out.

The high ram prices for this new Mac Pro, because there are only a few producers of the new ram and a shortage of this new ram, will cause other suppliers/producers to want to get into the market and get some of this high profit. Thus as more suppliers produce the new ram and there gets to be a larger supply, then by competition among the suppliers to sell their ram, the prices will fall.

Sorry to be such a stickler on the issue.

Um, er... you proved my point with your second paragraph. I just didn't want to write the 200 word backstory to the phenomenon. Increased demand = increase in production capacity = economies of scale and competition = lower price.

I suspect this is just to discourage you from purchasing from another vendor. But if you are worried, you can pick up a couple of these and still save a ton of money:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835118220

or

http://www.frozencpu.com/products/3275/ram-09/Aluminum_Black_DDR_Heat_Spreader.html

That's a stunningly bad idea. The self adhesive little heatsinks are not adequate, and removing the flat heatspreader from a FB-DIMM so as to install these will void the RAM warranty (and possibly rip the chips off of the board).

[zdobson]

DMS has their ram prices (http://www.datamemorysystems.com/_apple_info/Apple_Mac_Pro_Quad_Core_8_Xeon_2.8GHz_Memory_1487.asp) posted now. Pretty much the same as OWC. I've heard some people say DMS is better. Any thoughts?

[CanadaRAM]

DMS has their ram prices (http://www.datamemorysystems.com/_apple_info/Apple_Mac_Pro_Quad_Core_8_Xeon_2.8GHz_Memory_1487.asp) posted now. Pretty much the same as OWC. I've heard some people say DMS is better. Any thoughts?

They are both excellent companies that have supported Macs for many years.
I like Data Memory Systems, their customer service is excellent.

[Bass108]

how do you guys feel about mac gurus ram?

...still in testing phase

http://www.macgurus.com/productpages/ram/mgram.php

[spaceman8]

Hi, thanks to everyone who's posted in this thread as it's so useful I've bookmarked it!

As you can guess I'm a little hesitant about buying ram - purely because I live in the UK and can't find it from any of the shops I normally use (ebuyer, dabs).

My guess is it's just a timing issue at the moment, but if anyone does know somewhere selling them that would be great.

Thanks again to everyone in this thread who's taken time to share a little knowledge.

[Picasosz]

I am assuming I did this correctly My Quad Core 2.8 Came with 2GB (2 X 1 )
I ordered the 4 GB upgrade kit from Memory America 4GB ( 2 X 2 ) now I should just be able to add these 2 sticks and have 6 GB they are DDR2 800 MHz FB Dimms

[droon]

Ok.

I'd like 16 GB ram in my new mac pro.

16 gig in 8 x 2gb for +- $800 seems like a good deal.

The question is: we have an "old" quadcore 3.00 MHz mac pro at the office with the 667 GHz ram, can i put my two remaining 1 gb (800GHz) sticks in with the old 667 GHz ram?

[SHOlover]

FWIW, Transintl.com has them (2gig) in stock (as of now) and is shipping tomorrow. They are located in Anaheim CA. So SoCal residents would have their RAM by Thursday (this week). I ordered a 4 gig kit for $189. :) Good thing because I have a FCP project due on Monday!

[badlydrawnboy]

FWIW, Transintl.com has them (2gig) in stock (as of now) and is shipping tomorrow. They are located in Anaheim CA. So SoCal residents would have their RAM by Thursday (this week). I ordered a 4 gig kit for $189. :) Good thing because I have a FCP project due on Monday!

Are they a solid, reputable company? I ordered mine from OWC, but they won't ship out until Thursday or Friday. Not that big of a deal, but sooner is better than later!

[SHOlover]

Are they a solid, reputable company? I ordered mine from OWC, but they won't ship out until Thursday or Friday. Not that big of a deal, but sooner is better than later!
I've heard they are good for (Gulp) PC RAM. I talked to them on the phone and they are nice guys (if that counts for anything) but they have been around for 14 years. Someone else on the board recommended them. The modules have the heat sinks and are lifetime warrantied. :)

[badlydrawnboy]

I've heard they are good for (Gulp) PC RAM. I talked to them on the phone and they are nice guys (if that counts for anything) but they have been around for 14 years. Someone else on the board recommended them. The modules have the heat sinks and are lifetime warrantied. :)

Thanks. I did talk to someone there - they picked up the phone right away. I ordered from them, will arrive on Thursday or Friday (I'm in CA). Now I've been on hold for 45 MINUTES with OWC just trying to cancel my order.

Incidentally, I looked up OWC at resellerratings and they have a terrible rating. Several people mentioned the issue of not ever being able to reach them on the phone. Tell me about it.

[SHOlover]

Thanks. I did talk to someone there - they picked up the phone right away. I ordered from them, will arrive on Thursday or Friday (I'm in CA). Now I've been on hold for 45 MINUTES with OWC just trying to cancel my order.

Incidentally, I looked up OWC at resellerratings and they have a terrible rating. Several people mentioned the issue of not ever being able to reach them on the phone. Tell me about it.

NP. I was going to go with OWC, but the ship time was my main issue. Other places said next week would be when they would be able to ship :rolleyes: The guys from Transintl.com say that tomorrow there will be a huge demand for this RAM and they may have backorders if the demand is high enough, but who knows if this is accurate. I just needed to supplement my 2 gigs fast.

[Picasosz]

got the 2 x 2 GB sticks from memory america and it all works purrfectly. 6 GB of 800MHz FB memory:)

[designer22]

I had placed an order with OWC but canceled after checking out reseller ratings...not so good! I'm surprised they are so lauded by so many on these forums...maybe for memory they are great. Crucial ratings are far superior on reseller ratings. Called Crucial - looks like end of the month before they have any in.

[PeerDK]

Any opinions on the RAM Kingston makes for the Mac Pro? It's listed as being for the 2008 Mac Pro and reads "KTA-MP800K2/2G 2GB 800MHz FBDIMM Kit".

This should be the right ones? For some reason the pricing for 4GB is a lot cheaper as 4*1 than for 2*2 here in Europe but that shouldn't be a problem, right?

Sorry for being a bit dense - I'm a software guy :-)

Thank you for your help!

[treehorn]

I had placed an order with OWC but canceled after checking out reseller ratings...not so good! I'm surprised they are so lauded by so many on these forums...maybe for memory they are great. Crucial ratings are far superior on reseller ratings. Called Crucial - looks like end of the month before they have any in.

Have to say I'm very disappointed with OWC and not sure why it generates so many positive recommendations on this site. Placed an order for 8GB of RAM (4 - 2GB sticks) on Tuesday. Never got a confirmation. Never got word it shipped. Never got response from them at all.

Finally got a moment to check the status of the order and it came up with "problems verifying address" So called AMEX to see what was going on. Order was approved by AMEX, but hadn't been processed. Verified with AMEX that address was good and that the order was valid.

E-mailed OWC to let them know what I had done and my displeasure that they had never emailed me to inform me there was a problem.

Considering that I had ordered two hard drives from Newegg the same day, got a confirmation within 20 minutes, confirmation of credit card within 30, and shipping/tracking info within 24 hours...

[badlydrawnboy]

Well, it took me TWO HOURS on hold to actually cancel my order with OWC, but I did. That's the last time I ever deal with them. I called up TransIntl.com and the guy picked up right away. He shipped the RAM the next day, I got it yesterday and now I'm rockin' 10GB in my new MP '08! Highly recommend that company.