Can You Use DDR2 RAM in the New Mac Pro Machines

Question

Level 1

4 points

Can You Use DDR2 RAM in the New Mac Pro Machines

I am looking to finally upgrade my current machine (see specs below) but I have 13GB of DDR2 FB-DIMM memory in it that I am hoping I can use (even temporarily) in the new Machine. Does anyone know if this can be done? What are the drawbacks to doing so?

Thanks in advance for the help.

Current Configuration

Processor Name:	Dual-Core Intel Xeon
Processor Speed:	2.66 GHz
Number Of Processors:	2
Total Number Of Cores:	4

Mac Pro 2.66 Dual Intel 13GB RAM, Mac OS X (10.6.4), iPhoto 8.0.3, iTunes 10, iPhone 3GS 8G

Posted on Jan 13, 2012 9:19 AM

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Answer 1

Kujako

Level 2

270 points

Jan 13, 2012 9:32 AM in response to cherylco

I would not use non-approved RAM in a Mac Pro. The heat spreaders on the RAM is an integral part of the cooling system.

That being said, based on the processor information you provide you have a first generation Mac Pro. So long as the RAM can run at 667Mhz it SHOULD be ok. But no promises.

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Answer 2

The hatter

Level 9

61,051 points

Jan 13, 2012 9:59 AM in response to Kujako

NOooooooo New machines have Nehalem / DDR3 and memory controller is built into the processor.

Besides DDR3 has different physical slot, they aren't giving off heat.

The DDR3 you want and need is also cheaper and you can buy 8GB DIMMs.

Please check RAM vendors like OWC, Crucial, etc and look at the articles on MacPerformanceGuide too.

And of course Apple support specs!

www.apple.com/supportmacpro

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Answer 3

Kujako

Level 2

270 points

Jan 13, 2012 10:22 AM in response to The hatter

No such thing as a dual CPU quad core Nehalem setup. So I'm assuming he has the first generation Mac Pro with a pair of dual core 2.66Ghz 667mhz buss CPUs.

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Answer 4

The hatter

Level 9

61,051 points

Jan 13, 2012 10:51 AM in response to Kujako

you miss entirely, FBDIMMs cannot be used in new Mac Pro!

his new machine would have to be a old 2008 or earlier.

Dual dual core call it what you want does not pertain, that is what they have.

Now go blame the OP for not telling you what he is buying.

End of story.

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Answer 5

Kujako

Level 2

270 points

Jan 13, 2012 12:16 PM in response to The hatter

So is he asking if the RAM from his 1,1 Mac Pro can be used in the newer ones? If so then I did indeed totaly missunderstand and the answer is no.

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Answer 6

Jan 13, 2012 4:03 PM in response to cherylco

One of ther reasons a new Mac Pro is worth the money is that it has completely different memory that is much faster. You cannot use your old memory in the new Mac Pro.

You can operate it for quite a while with the 3GB that comes in the new machine, and when you upgrade it, it will be much faster.

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Answer 7

cherylco Author

Level 1

4 points

Jan 16, 2012 11:18 AM in response to cherylco

Thank you to all for your help. Although I was hoping I could use the old memory for a while, but I see that I can't. I guess I will have to just bite the bullet and buy new ram with the new machine. Thanks again for all the great feedback.

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Answer 8

Kujako

Level 2

270 points

Jan 16, 2012 11:24 AM in response to cherylco

Good third party memory is less expensive then having Apple install it for you.

http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/Mac-Pro-Memory#1333-memory

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