Apple Mac Pro, Early 2008 User's Guide

Apple Mac Pro, Early 2008 manual cover
Pages 120
Year 2008
Language(s)
English en

Apple Mac Pro, Early 2008 Specification

The Apple Mac Pro, Early 2008, is a high-performance desktop computer designed for professional users requiring robust computing power and expandability. It features a sleek aluminum enclosure with a removable side panel for easy access to internal components. At its core, the Mac Pro is powered by Intel Xeon processors based on the Penryn architecture, available in quad-core and 8-core configurations, offering clock speeds ranging from 2.8 GHz to 3.2 GHz. The system supports up to 32GB of 800 MHz DDR2 ECC fully-buffered DIMM memory, ensuring stability and reliability for demanding applications.

Graphics capabilities are delivered through PCI Express 2.0, with options including the ATI Radeon HD 2600 XT with 256MB of GDDR3 memory, upgradable to more powerful cards like the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT for enhanced visual performance. Storage is flexible, featuring four internal hard drive bays supporting 3.5-inch SATA drives, allowing for up to 4TB of total storage capacity, and the option for RAID configurations to enhance data redundancy and performance. Optical drive options include a standard 16x SuperDrive capable of reading and writing DVDs and CDs.

Connectivity options comprise five USB 2.0 ports, two FireWire 400 ports, two FireWire 800 ports, dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, and optical as well as analog audio input and output. The Mac Pro also supports AirPort Extreme 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR for wireless networking. Running on Mac OS X Leopard, the Early 2008 Mac Pro is optimized for seamless integration into professional workflows, making it a highly capable machine for tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific computation.

Apple Mac Pro, Early 2008 F.A.Q.

How can I upgrade the RAM in my Apple Mac Pro, Early 2008?

To upgrade the RAM, open the side panel, remove the memory riser cards, and replace or add new RAM modules. Ensure the RAM is compatible (DDR2 ECC fully buffered).

What should I do if my Mac Pro doesn't boot?

Check all cable connections, reset the SMC and PRAM, and remove any newly installed hardware or peripherals. If the issue persists, consult an Apple technician.

How can I clean the interior of my Mac Pro, Early 2008?

Shut down the Mac Pro, unplug all cables, and open the side panel. Use compressed air to gently remove dust from components and fans. Avoid touching internal parts.

What graphics card options are available for upgrading my Early 2008 Mac Pro?

You can upgrade to compatible cards like the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 285 or ATI Radeon HD 5770, ensuring they support your system's PCIe slots.

How do I perform a factory reset on my Apple Mac Pro, Early 2008?

Boot from the original installation disc, select Disk Utility, erase the main drive, and reinstall macOS from the disc. Backup data before proceeding.

My Mac Pro is overheating, what should I do?

Ensure proper ventilation, clean dust from fans and vents, and check for software issues causing high CPU usage. Consider reinstalling macOS for persistent problems.

What is the maximum hard drive capacity supported by the Mac Pro, Early 2008?

The Mac Pro, Early 2008, supports up to four internal SATA drives, each with a capacity of up to 2TB, for a total of 8TB.

How can I improve the performance of my Mac Pro, Early 2008?

Upgrade the RAM, replace the hard drive with an SSD, and ensure all software is up to date. Consider reducing the number of startup programs.

Why is my Mac Pro making unusual noises?

Unusual noises can be due to failing hard drives or fans. Check for loose components, clean fans, and back up data in case of hardware failure.

Can I run the latest macOS on my Mac Pro, Early 2008?

The latest officially supported macOS is OS X El Capitan. Newer versions might be installed using third-party tools, but it's not recommended or supported by Apple.