Mac Pro 1st Gen Processors - hard to replace? [Archive]

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erik450

Sep 6, 2009, 06:28 PM

I have a 1st generation Mac Pro with 2 x 2.66 Dual Core Processors and was wondering how hard it is to upgrade the processors. I use it for HD video editing (Final Cut Studio), After Effects, Photoshop, etc. I've done some research and, from what I've read, it's supposed to be possible with 2 Clovertown x5365s (3.0Ghz). My question though is how hard is it to replace or am I better off buying a new Mac Pro?

bearcatrp

Sep 6, 2009, 06:35 PM

If you have dug around inside computers before, then not very hard. Find the posts about doing this and follow the instructions. Just have the right tools and patients. I did mine and took a few hours. The biggest headache is finding the new ones at a descent price. I just ordered some harpertowns for a rig I built and there cheaper than clovertowns. Another drawback is the 32 bit EFI on your rig. You might just want to get rid of it and shop for a 8 core next gen.

bozz2006

Sep 6, 2009, 07:34 PM

like bearcat said, it's not hard. but i too think for the price of upgrading to 5365s, your money might be better spent on a new system.

cal6n

Sep 7, 2009, 02:44 AM

The 5365s are quite pricey, unless you get lucky, but the 5355s (2.66 GHz quads) are relatively good value.

You need the correct tools, especially a rather long 3 mm socket-head wrench IIRC, and some knowledge of how to use thermal paste correctly, but it's pretty straightforward from there.

Is it worth doing? Only you can decide but, if I hadn't upgraded 2 years ago, I'd jump at the chance now!

Techhie

Sep 7, 2009, 02:55 AM

Not saying the CPU upgrade won't be an incremental speed boost for you, but IMO the sluggishly clocked RAM and the limitation set by Apple for your model to only accept older GPUs will make buying a new system a much more feasible option.

FireArse

Sep 7, 2009, 02:59 AM