Just want to say, as a relatively "Mac Pro Newbie" here, just wanted to pass along some advice.
If you have suddenly come into the possession of a Mac Pro 3,1 or 4,1 or 5,1.....for the first time:
1) DO NOT RUSH to make a bunch of hardware or software changes.
2) Read, read and re-read this forum and follow the suggested links.
3) Think carefully about what you want to do with this system.
4) Some changes are irreversable! Don't brick your new box.
I know you're excited to finally have one of the beasts in the house (I know I was!)
I've been reading a lot here (and watching many Youtube videos), until you have time to digest all the options, it's difficult to know where start.
If you are at a loss, might start with the sticky threads here....and this one:
forums.macrumors.com
5) My recommendation is first, learn how to give the beast a good cleaning (vacuum or blow out all the dust bunnies). That will keep you busy for a while. If you decide to keep the MP (Mac Pro), you will have to do this every so often anyway.
6) Then carefully test all the hardware you have, to make sure it works as it should.
7) The factory owners and service manuals are available for download, and I recommend you pull them down and give them at least a cursory glance. Keep the PDFs handy for future reference.
8) Don't start upgrading anything until you are certain what you already have is solid to start with.
9) And if you don't know what to do first, ASK....most folks who hang on this forum are good folks and can be trusted.
Good Luck New (old) Mac Pro Owner!
If you have suddenly come into the possession of a Mac Pro 3,1 or 4,1 or 5,1.....for the first time:
1) DO NOT RUSH to make a bunch of hardware or software changes.
2) Read, read and re-read this forum and follow the suggested links.
3) Think carefully about what you want to do with this system.
4) Some changes are irreversable! Don't brick your new box.
I know you're excited to finally have one of the beasts in the house (I know I was!)
I've been reading a lot here (and watching many Youtube videos), until you have time to digest all the options, it's difficult to know where start.
If you are at a loss, might start with the sticky threads here....and this one:
cMP {classicMacPro}{4,1 & 5,1} - Upgrade Guide Sticky Discussion
Hey Folks, Lets start a discussion and collect everything relevant for cMP upgraders out there. Topics to consider: CPU Upgrades Compatibility chart CPU Delid / standoffs 4,1 to 5,1 firmware upgrade Memory Compatibility and Upgrades UDIMM Model Numbers RDIMM Model Numbers RAM...
forums.macrumors.com
5) My recommendation is first, learn how to give the beast a good cleaning (vacuum or blow out all the dust bunnies). That will keep you busy for a while. If you decide to keep the MP (Mac Pro), you will have to do this every so often anyway.
6) Then carefully test all the hardware you have, to make sure it works as it should.
7) The factory owners and service manuals are available for download, and I recommend you pull them down and give them at least a cursory glance. Keep the PDFs handy for future reference.
8) Don't start upgrading anything until you are certain what you already have is solid to start with.
9) And if you don't know what to do first, ASK....most folks who hang on this forum are good folks and can be trusted.
Good Luck New (old) Mac Pro Owner!
Last edited:
