Mac mini graphics card question...

[Phydeaux]

Ok. This is probably a question that is going to be answered with a no, but I thought I'd ask anyway. With the mac mini's integrated graphics card the card takes power from the processor and memory from the ram. Right? So, what would happen if I had a 3 ghz dual core, 2 gb ram computer? Would that make the graphics card better in return?

If not, is there any possible way to make the card better, or add a new card into the mac mini? I'm willing to do lots of work if it is possible.

 

[SkyBell]

First off, I seriously doubt you could perform that kind of an upgrade to a mini.

Secondly, sadly, no, there is no way to upgrade the card. It's integrated.

 

[Phydeaux]

First off, I seriously doubt you could perform that kind of an upgrade to a mini.

Why's that, and you mean you couldn't get the ram card to use more power either?

 

[jsw]

If the new CPU is pin compatible and heat compatible (less likely), then, yes, you'd likely see an improvement. But not a whole lot.

But... for the price of a 3.0GHz dual core, you might as well sell the mini, not buy the chip, buy an iMac and get a discrete graphics card.

 

[Phydeaux]

If the new CPU is pin compatible and heat compatible (less likely),

Isn't that the reason the processors cost more? Because they run faster with lower heat? I've seen people upgrade the mac mini solo to like 2.5ghz dual core.

then, yes, you'd likely see an improvement. But not a whole lot.

I'm looking for a place where I can get the specs on that (like fps on games after upgrade). If you have a source easily accessible I'd be grateful.

But... for the price of a 3.0GHz dual core, you might as well sell the mini, not buy the chip, buy an iMac and get a discrete graphics card.

I've seen it for like $200-250 on ebay, and a mac mini solo for about $400. That's a 3 ghz computer with 2 gb of ram for $700. The only down side is the graphics card...

 

[kermit4161]

Ok. This is probably a question that is going to be answered with a no, but I thought I'd ask anyway. With the mac mini's integrated graphics card the card takes power from the processor and memory from the ram. Right? So, what would happen if I had a 3 ghz dual core, 2 gb ram computer? Would that make the graphics card better in return?

If not, is there any possible way to make the card better, or add a new card into the mac mini? I'm willing to do lots of work if it is possible.

I don't think you can upgrade to the 3.0 CD processor. Macs use the Mobile processor type, not the desktop type. I can't find a 3.0 version of the CD or C2D for sale. I think the highest they go is 2.4Ghz.

Overall, it'd be cheaper to get the new C2D 2.0 Ghz Mac Mini. It'll recognize more RAM (3GB) over the older solo models. If you break down the component cost, it is cheaper than building one on your own.

 

[Phydeaux]

I don't think you can upgrade to the 3.0 CD processor. Macs use the Mobile processor type, not the desktop type. I can't find a 3.0 version of the CD or C2D for sale. I think the highest they go is 2.4Ghz.

Overall, it'd be cheaper to get the new C2D 2.0 Ghz Mac Mini. It'll recognize more RAM (3GB) over the older solo models. If you break down the component cost, it is cheaper than building one on your own.

Yeah your right. The mac mini uses the "T" processors.

 

[WildPalms]

Isn't that the reason the processors cost more? Because they run faster with lower heat? I've seen people upgrade the mac mini solo to like 2.5ghz dual core.



I'm looking for a place where I can get the specs on that (like fps on games after upgrade). If you have a source easily accessible I'd be grateful.



I've seen it for like $200-250 on ebay, and a mac mini solo for about $400. That's a 3 ghz computer with 2 gb of ram for $700. The only down side is the graphics card...

...and slower bus, and slow hard disk (laptop), etc etc

If you want to play games, seriously, get the iMac.

 

[Phydeaux]

If you want to play games, seriously, get the iMac.

Yes I see this now, and it's possible upgrade that processor as well. I don't know if it's worth it or not, but it's possible.

Just so that it's said. You could buy the right 2 ghz dual core processor for $200. That would mean you could pay $600 rather than buying the new mac mini for $800. It is up to the person as to if it's worth the work.

 

[kermit4161]

Yes I see this now, and it's possible upgrade that processor as well. I don't know if it's worth it or not, but it's possible.

Just so that it's said. You could buy the right 2 ghz dual core processor for $200. That would mean you could pay $600 rather than buying the new mac mini for $800. It is up to the person as to if it's worth the work.

True. But if you go that route, you'll loose the benefit of the larger L3 cache, more RAM capability and a Superdrive (standard on the 2.0 Mini). Not to mention Applecare. Once you factor in all that, you can decide if it is worth it or not. Some might thing it is worth the extra $200 to get the better performance, drive and warranty. Some might not.

BTW... I've been playing WoW on my 2.0 Mini without any difficulties at all. I've been getting 17 FPS inside of major cities and 30 FPS outside the cities. I don't know about other games, but WoW works okay for me.

Cheers