Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.0 (Original)

The Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.0, just as Mac Pro Quad Core 2.0, is a built-to-order configuration of the Mac Pro Quad Core 2.66 – the first Intel-based tower Mac to have been introduced. The only difference between the two models is the processor.

Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.0 (Original)

Introduced on August 7, 2006.

Specifications

• Processor: Intel Xeon 5160.
• Processor Speed: 3.0 GHz.
• Processor Type: D. Core Intel Xeon 5160 x2.
• RAM Type: PC5300 DDR2 ECC.
• Standard RAM: 1 GB.
• Video Card: GeForce 7300 GT.
• VRAM Type: GDDR2 SDRAM.
• Display Support: According to Apple’s reports, this model can support up to eight displays with four NVIDIA GeForce 7300 GT graphics cards installed, each supporting two displays.
• Resolution Support: 2560 x 1600.
• Standard Hard Drive: 250 GB (7200 RPM).
• Connectivity: Airport Extreme 802.11a/b/g and draft-n (optional; n disabled by default). 2x gigabit Ethernet Optional 56k V.92 USB modem. Optional Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR.
• OS: Pre-Installed MacOS: X 10.4.7 (8K1079). Maximum MacOS: X 10.7.5.
• Maximum Windows: XP SP2.
• Battery: 922-6476 3.6V lithium battery.
• Dimensions: 20.1 in height, 8.1 in width, 18.7 in depth.
• Average Weight: 42.4 lbs.

How to Install Memory

The Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.0 (Original) has two memory cards with 4 memory slots on each card (in four banks of two each). The device comes with a minimum of 1 GB of memory, installed as a pair of 512 MB fully buffered dual inline memory modules (FB-DIMMs) in two of the DIMM slots. It is possible to install additional pairs of 512 MB, 1 GB, or 2 GB FB-DIMMS in the open DIMM slots on the memory cards. DIMMs must be installed in equal-sized pairs and fit the specifications as mentioned below:

• 667 MHz, FB-DIMMS.
• 72-bit wide, 240-pin modules.
• 36 devices maximum per DIMM.
• Error-correcting code (ECC).

Warning: Apple recommends that the user uses Apple-approved FB-DIMMS. Non Apple approved FB-DIMMS may cause the Mac Pro to operate louder or decrease performance to conserve heat. DIMMs from older Mac computers cannot be used in the new Mac Pro.

Note: When purchasing DIMMs for use in Mac computers, the user should make sure that the memory vendor conforms to the Joint Electron Device Engineering Council (JEDEC) specification. The user should check with the memory vendor to ensure that the DIMMs support the correct timing modes and that the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) feature has been programmed properly, as described in the JEDEC specification. To check the compatibility of the DIMMs, go to the Macintosh Products Guide on Apple’s website

Installing memory:

1. Shut down the computer, open it, and remove the side panel (warning: always let the computer cool down for at least five minutes or more minutes before you touch its internal components, as these components on the memory cards may be very hot and burn your fingers).
2. Remove the memory card and place it on a soft, clean cloth.
3. Now open the ejectors on the DIMM slot by pushing them out to the sides.
4. Align the first FB-DIMM in the slot on the memory card and push both ends of the FBDIMM down until the tabs are vertical and the ejectors snap into place. Repeat the operation to install the second FB-DIMM. When proceeding remember to not touch the gold DIMM connectors.
5. Lay the Mac Pro down on a soft, clean cloth on the desk or a solid work surface to avoid scratching the work surface or the machine.
6. Install the memory cards, pushing slightly until they are seated in the memory slot.
7. Stand the Mac Pro up and replace the side panel (Note: When you replace the side panel, hold it securely so it stays in place as you push the latch down).
8. Push the latch down to secure the side panel.

Installing Internal Storage Devices

This Mac Pro has room for six internal drives: two optical drives and four hard disk drives. In most configurations, a single hard disk drive occupies the first hard drive bay and an optical drive is located in the top optical drive bay. The user can add up to three additional Serial ATA (SATA) 3 Gbit/s hard disk drives to the empty hard drive bays. The drives must meet these specifications:

• Type: SATA 3 Gbit/s.
• Width: 3.9 inches (102 mm).
• Depth: 5.7 inches (147 mm).
• Height: 1.0 inch.

Important: Apple recommends using the original Apple cables that come with your Mac Pro when you install or replace the optical drives.

The Mac Pro can accommodate up to four internal 1-inch-high SATA 3 Gbit/s hard disk drives in the hard drive bays. If your Mac Pro comes with a single drive installed, it’s in the first bay. You can install drives in the second, third, and fourth hard drive bays.

To install a hard disk drive:

1. Open the Mac Pro and remove the side panel.
2. Lift the latch to unlock the hard drive carriers. (Important: When the latch is down, the carriers are locked in the drive bays and can’t be removed).
3. Pull the hard drive carrier out of the drive bay.
4. Use the four screws on the carrier to attach the hard disk drive to the carrier. (Note: If the printed circuit board is exposed on the bottom of the hard disk drive, hold the drive by its sides. To avoid damaging the drive, don’t touch the printed circuit board).
5. Lift the latch and then slide the carrier over the guides and into the drive bay, until it’s seated in the bay and snaps into place.

Apple Orders, Discontinuation, Price

Apple Order Number: As a custom configuration of the Mac Pro “Quad Core” 2.66, this model does not have its own order number.

Apple Model Number: A1186.

Discontinuation: January 8, 2008.

Initial Price: US$3299.

Miscellanea

• The Mac Pro has four expansion slots (PCle). Accoding to Apple’s reports, the system is also provided with configurable bandwidth supporting 16-lane cards.
• Other than that, the expansion is provided with two external optical bays and four internal cable-free, direct attach hard drive bays.
• Apple recommends that users contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or have an Apple-certified technician if users were to install memory, PCI Express cards, and internal storage devices. Apple warns that if the user installs these items himself, he risks damaging the equipment, and such damage is not covered by the limited warranty on the computer. Apple recommends to see its list of Authorized Service Providers for any additional information about this or any other warranty question.

Links

• We’ll buy your old Mac Pro for the best price online. Check on our prices and sell your used computer in order to save money for a new model: Sell Mac Pro.

Review: Quad Core Mac Pro / Still worth it in 2016? Video uploaded by TechCentury on February 17, 2016.