Adding Third Monitor to Mac Pro

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Adding Third Monitor to Mac Pro

I have a Mac Pro 2 x 2.66 Dual-Core Intel Xeon computer with a NVIDIA GeForce 7300 GT 256 MB graphics card. I currently run the 23" Cinema HD display along with the smaller 20" version on the right. I also have another one of the 20" monitors, and would like to add that to my computer as well to have a third monitor.

My uses do not involve any serious graphics work. I just use a lot of spreadsheets, Bento/Filemaker, and the typical e-mail & web browsing since this is my main work computer. I don't have a serious "need" for three monitors, but as my older G5's have become useless, the monitors are now free so I might as well add them.

What will I need to get to run the three monitors on one computer? I've heard of some $300 external adapter, but I would much rather just install another graphics card if possible/cheaper to do so.

Posted on Dec 5, 2012 2:40 PM

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Answer 1

Dec 5, 2012 6:50 PM in response to ctc1111

The Apple-firmware 5770 works in all Mac Pro models.

It supports three displays if you can use ACTIVE POWERED adapters from the Mini DisplayPorts. It runs slightly slower than expected on the Mac Pro 1,1 and 2,1 due to PCIe 1 slots instead of the later models' PCIe 2 slots. It will support up to three 30" displays.

US$250 from the Apple Store,

http://store.apple.com/us/product/MC742ZM/A/ati-radeon-hd-5770-graphics-upgrade- kit-for-mac-pro-(mid-2010)?fnode=53

or a little less (US$244.80) from B & H in New York city

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/726537-REG/Apple_MC742ZM_A_ATI_Radeon_HD_5 770.html

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