RAM configuration for MacPro

[sotofish]

I would like 8GB of RAM for my new MacPro and trying to figure out how to arrange them in the slots..... it comes standard with 2GB (2x 1GB modules), so I need 6GB more..

Would I get 6x 1GB modules and fill all slots?

Would that be the best way to do it? A 1GB in each of 8 slots?

How is OWC memory from Macsales? Is it easy to DIY?

Thanks guys...

 

[CanadaRAM]

Welcome to MR

You'll find answers to this and many other commonly asked questions under the Guides tab at the top

Guides : Hardware: MR Guide to Buying RAM

Guides : Hardware: MR Guide to Understanding Intel Mac RAM


In general, it's recommended to have a Search in the forums and.or a look at the Guides before posting a new question.

You're better off getting two or four 2 GB FBDIMMs rather than loading your machine up with 1 GB FBDIMMs. OWC is a good vendor, also check Data Memory Systems

 

[kudukudu]

I would buy 4 x 2 GB modules from OWC. Keep in mind that each FB-DIMM sucks about 10 watts so getting 8 x 1 GB instead of 4 x 2 GB increases the power consumption of your machine by 40 watts in addition to producing more heat.

I have the original 2 GB that came with my machine sitting in an anti-static bag since I am seldom breaking the 8 GB barrier with my current usage patterns. Getting 4 x 2 GB also allows the possibility of upgrading to 12 or 16 GB without throwing any memory away 2-3 years down the line.

Installing new memory on the mac pro is dead simple and definitely something any one can do even if you don't have prior experience with doing your own hardware upgrades (same goes for upgrading the hard drive which is even easier).

 

[sash]

Would that be the best way to do it? A 1GB in each of 8 slots?

4 x 2 GB definitely. It's faster, more cost-efficient and you'll have some free slots for the future upgrades.

How is OWC memory from Macsales?

Great. It comes along with a very helpful instruction leaflet.

Is it easy to DIY?

Piece of cake. Really.

 

[krye]

Yet another Mac Pro memory configuration thread.

Here we go again:

Toss the 1Gs to the side and do:

Top riser
2, 2, 0, 0

Bottom Riser
2, 2, 0, 0

Or, if you want to keep the 1Gs, do this

Top riser
1, 1, 2, 2

Bottom Riser
1, 1, 0, 0