
- #UPGRADES FOR 2012 MAC MINI HOW TO#
- #UPGRADES FOR 2012 MAC MINI UPGRADE#
- #UPGRADES FOR 2012 MAC MINI PC#
This chassis is held in place by four tiny screws when the screws are removed, the chassis simply lifts out of the way.

On Intel-based Mac Mini computers, though, the upper chassis (where the hard drive resides) must be removed.
#UPGRADES FOR 2012 MAC MINI PC#
Please note that this step does not apply to older Power PC models these machines were situated in such a way that their RAM slots were not obstructed.
#UPGRADES FOR 2012 MAC MINI UPGRADE#
When the case is removed, a few obstructions still block access to the RAM upgrade slots. Repeat this process for each side of the Mac Mini, then gently lift the computer away from the detached case top. Press the instrument all the way in, then gently push the handle toward the outside of the computer until you hear several loud pops. If you choose to proceed with your own upgrade, you may remove the case by gently but firmly inserting a flat, wide, metal instrument-such as a putty knife-between the white heat pad and the side of the aluminum case on the bottom of the computer. If you are uncomfortable removing the case, or do not want to risk voiding your Apple warranty, you may opt to have the upgrade performed by an authorized Apple care center. This case, while providing a sleek modern look, is not designed to be easily removed and this adds considerable difficulty to the upgrade process. Removing the CaseĪnother unique aspect of the Mac Mini is its sealed aluminum case. If you choose to add RAM to your existing configuration rather than replace your machine’s RAM altogether, you will need to purchase 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM SO-DIMMs to ensure compatibility. Older Mac Mini machines, primarily the ones using the Power PC processor, offered only one SO-DIMM slots, though newer (Intel) models offer two slots for easy upgrades. The random access memory (RAM) used by the Mac Mini is no exception, as the machine relies on SO-DIMM RAM components. In order to achieve the remarkably small desktop footprint, designers of the Mac Mini relied heavily on small components designed for use in laptop computers.
#UPGRADES FOR 2012 MAC MINI HOW TO#
This article will explore some unique characteristics of the Mac Mini and describe how to perform a memory upgrade on these machines. While the unique design is innovative and ideal for many consumers, it adds a certain uniqueness to performing memory upgrades. Even more remarkable, this desktop machine stands only 2 inches tall, making it one of the smallest desktop computers ever created. Ensure your Mini is powered off and disconnected from power, then remove its bottom cover by twisting it with two thumbs.Apple’s Mac Mini is a marvel of desktop computing, packing a powerful G4 Power PC or Intel Mac processor into a 6 1/2-inch square box. But for those who are confident they can do it themselves, the following steps can be seen as a general guide to the process when it comes to RAM upgrades in the 2010-2012 minis.ġ. After all, it’s a reality that any upgrade comes with risks, and nobody wants to see damage to their Mac. Many Apple users will be happy getting an upgrade at an Apple store or doing so via a tech professional. Apple advises allowing an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider to do the upgrade. *The 2018 Mini’s RAM is upgradeable, but its a much more complex process than that of the 2010-2012 Minis. The Upgrade List for Every Mac Mini of the Past Decade Year True, there’s no suggestion such steps would deliver someone a computer that is on the cutting edge of today’s technology, but Apple fans would say the record of eight-year-old PCs being as easy to upgrade and as long-lasting is far more limited. For example, it’s common to see Minis from 2010 that shipped with 4GB of RAM or Minis from 2012 with 8GB of RAM – yet, a 2010 can upgrade to 8GB, and the 2012 to 16GB.Īs a result, many people in recent years have found they could buy a used Mac Mini from as far back as 2010 and that it will hold its own with a Mac from 2020 in numerous tasks. What makes the Mini special is its capacity to effectively utilize upgrades introduced into it well beyond its base model. Is an Upgrade Really Worthwhile?Īt the outset, it’s useful to provide a quick overview surrounding why the Mini is so fantastic from a DIY-upgrade perspective. Let’s see which Mac Mini models are easy to upgrade, as well as the general process for how to do it in the 2010-2012 range. Minis are also popular for the speed and ease in which many of the versions can be easily upgraded in their RAM and hard drive capacity. Mini users love them for the versatility they offer in terms of easily adding components.

But to those who know and use the Mini regularly, it’s often a huge passion for them. In fact, many people who are not die-hard Apple fans may not initially recognize it when they see a Mini sitting on a desk. It doesn’t win the attention that an iPhone or MacBook does.

The Mac mini is something of an outsider in the Apple community.
