What is the maximum memory possible to install in a MacBook Pro (15", early 2008)? Apple memory upgrade / installation instructions contrdict internally, saying (a) 8GB (2 4GB SoDimms) then, (b) 4GB (2 2GB SoDimms). Which is it?
MacBook Pro
In that model, you have only 2 slot or ram, since you have a 2008 model its means maximum 2GB each slot you can put on it, so 4GB Maximum Upgrade (b) 4GB ( 2 2GB SoDimms)
Thanks. However, so far I have found that a memory company, OWC, offers a 6GB package for this model (Model 4,1 - Early 2008, 2.5 GHz) and claims it tests out perfectly. Reviews report good experiences too.
I have it loaded now with 4GB & wondered if it can take the 6GB package or even 8GB (2-4GB SoDimms). The Apple Upgrade sheet says in a "note" that these models can take 8GB (presumably the 2-4GB chips) but then in further details about the actual installation, the same sheet states that 4GB is the max. Apparently OWC has tested for 6GB and succeeded. They don't explicitly report what happens on 8GB (although in one spot I think they report that if a 4GB SoDimm is installed it will only be recognized as a 3GB - but that comment is in a discussion of upgrading to 3GB on an even earlier MBP rev.) I also am unclear whether I have to get both OWC chips (2-GB and 4-GB) to do the 6GB upgrade or whether I can simply get the OWC 4GB SoDimm and run it with one of my existing Apple 2GB SoDimm's left in place. Again, OWC seems to state, generally, that there chips mix & match with Apple original memory, but I am not clear where, as here, they seem to be overdriving the memory. Anybody have any further experience?
P.S. - The link to the OWC 6GB page is:
http://eshop.macsales.com/item/Other%20World%20Computing/5300DDR2S6GP/
can you please give what is the serial number of your macbook pro
Sorry. Can't do that.
How would that help anyway?
I want to make sure what model exactly you have, because in 2008 macbook pro models have different speed of RAM, their is 667MHZ and 800Mhz , but i pretty sure that in that model the maximum you can put each slot is 2GB, about OWC im not familiar about that company, but different speed of ram different connection and pin. that why if you have 667Mhz or 800mhz mins 2GB maximum each slot.
6 GB is the maximum amount of RAM that your MBP can utilize.
Ciao.
Box uses 667Mhz SoDimms, 200 pins. Model is MACBOOKPRO 4,1 (Early 2008). OS: Lion.
Bottom line is, I believe, as per Ogelthorpe: 6GB is max RAM for this model. Still wondering on whether the upgrade has to be all OWC memory or can merely replace one 2GB Apple SoDimm by one OWC 4GB SoDimm. Do you know?
Thanls Ogelthorpe. Per my reply to GatasNgManok:
Still wondering on whether the upgrade has to be all OWC memory or can merely replace one 2GB Apple SoDimm by one OWC 4GB SoDimm. Do you know?
In theory any RAM that meets the specifications for your MBP will work. However I have seen many instances where brand 'X' RAM should work but does not.
My recommendation is to get RAM from OWC or Crucial. I would replace all of you old RAM with new. It not that expensive and these two firms have developed a good reputation in the Mac community for quality products combined responsive service.
Ciao.
Amhman wrote:
Box uses 667Mhz SoDimms, 200 pins. Model is MACBOOKPRO 4,1 (Early 2008). OS: Lion.
Bottom line is, I believe, as per Ogelthorpe: 6GB is max RAM for this model. Still wondering on whether the upgrade has to be all OWC memory or can merely replace one 2GB Apple SoDimm by one OWC 4GB SoDimm. Do you know?
You may be able to use non OWC supplied memory but why bother, OWC's prices are competitive and they will stand by their sale.
To confirm, your model can use 2 x 4G chips (of the correct spec) but only 6G will be recognized, you could save $7 by using a 2G and a 4G but there are advantages to running matched pairs which you will forgo by retaining one of the original chips.
GatasNgManok wrote:
can you please give what is the serial number of your macbook pro
Try to avoid asking people for their serial numbers.
Got it. I will replace both chips with 2 4GB chips & understand only 6GB will be recognized. I think OWC showed a benchmark gain of about 25% for the change from 4GB to 6GB. What about their recommended upgrade to a 7200 rpm SATA drive from the 5400 rpm unit that was standard. They assert there is a mjor performance bump up. I am wondering if there are any downsides, e.g., increased power consumption, faster loss of battery charge, etc. Any thoughts?
A faster HDD will give a slight increase in performance with a slight decrease in battery life. In my opinion it is the right way to go. I have a 750 GB 7200 rpm HDD in my MBP. No complaints.
Ciao.
What is the maximum memory possible to in a MacBook Pro (15", early 2008)?
