MP 7,1 Mac pro 2019 rack convert to desktop

[starman971]

Hello guys,
I have a simple question but the answer might be more complicated. I own a 2019 Mac Pro rack mount version and I’d like to convert it to a desktop. I’ve done some research but I can’t find any visible differences between the motherboard of the rack mount and desktop versions.
Is this conversion possible?
On ebay i can buy a chassis from a desktop mac pro for 250$

 

[Regulus67]

An interesting question.
I watched a full teardown of the desktop version, a couple of years ago. But I did not pay attention to any details concerning the electrical connections to the power button, two Thunderbolt ports, and the lock.
All located above the CPU.
Trying to inspect it without a teardown. I would guess the small card slots into the motherboard, without any ribbon cable.

I suppose it is just as difficult to see how it is connected on the rack version.

 

[starman971]

Yes, that was my initial concern and I noticed on the rack model that a flat cable runs from the CPU side to the front of the case.

So my thought is I can replace it with the connector on the top case of the desktop version.

Since both versions have two connectors on the CPU side of their motherboards for this flat cable.

 

[Regulus67]

Snazzy Labs teardown video gives all the details on the desktop version. A must watch in your research 🙂

 

[starman971]

Snazzy Labs teardown video gives all the details on the desktop version. A must watch in your research 🙂

Okay, I’m going to do it!! Thanks.
I have already taken the new chassis from eBay.

 

[Domip]

Okay, I’m going to do it!! Thanks.
I have already taken the new chassis from eBay.

How did it go?

 

[Regulus67]

Yes, that was my initial concern and I noticed on the rack model that a flat cable runs from the CPU side to the front of the case.

So my thought is I can replace it with the connector on the top case of the desktop version.


Since both versions have two connectors on the CPU side of their motherboards for this flat cable.

I missed your answer. Only saw it now.
It does indeed look like it should be connected in the manner you suggest.

Great photos 👍 First time I see the cable running along the fan rack.

 

[MisterAndrew]

You could compare part numbers, but I don’t know where you can find MP 7,1 part numbers. If you get the serial numbers for a rack and tower M2 Ultra MP you could compare them on the self repair website.