Thanks for the great video. I upgraded my mini to 8G for only $50! I had a little trouble getting the screws back in since my screwdriver was not magnetic but it still only took about 20 minutes or so.
Thanks a lot for sharing this. You guys are a real asset to the mac community. Followed the instructions and had no problems upgrading my mac mini. Thanks!
Really clear instructions, it was easy first time (didn't take as long as 40 minutes though - don't worry!).
It should be noted for first timers, RAM should only be installed in pairs - therefore unless you are installing another 1GB RAM in the second bay, you'll be taking out the 1GB it came with.
You can therefore install either one 2GB or one 4GB RAM - or - a pair of either two 2GB or two 4GB. A combination won't work, they have to match.
Hope that makes sense! Thanks again for a great video.
Absolutely brilliant, bought 4GB off Amazon and installed in using this video, avoided the Apple rip-off prices and also have the original 2GB SODIMM which I can now sell on eBay! Thanks v much
@joec6512 It is similar, see our tech center on macsales for the video on that model (too long to be uploaded to YouTube). The Macmini2,1 models are able to accept up to 4GB of memory although 3.0GB is the maximum amount that can be addressed at once.
Another thanks here... Took me 1.5 hours, but I was extra extra careful and in general I'm not fit for these tasks... Yet, nothing was bricked (other than one antenna that disconnected completely and had to be reconnected).
Thank you very much for posting the tutorial on how to upgrade a Mac Mini. Despite all of the upgrades that I have done to my Mac and PC computers (notebook and desktops) over the years, I have never attempted to open such a small and compact device This was nothing like replacing hard drives, optical drives, graphics cards or ram on any other computer... However, my Mini is now running flawlessly now with 8gb of ram! I appreciate the videos, thank you very much and keep ''em coming!
upgraded my mini from 2x1gb - 1x4gb and remaining 1gb yesterday successfully. watched this video a few times before and during. reset the mini's PRAM afterwards. all is well with it and its much quicker. thanks again!
Thanks guys, you just saved me 50EUR and about an hour of my time. Oh and I confess to using a knife as there was no putty knife in the tool box, hehe.
Takes some courage to apply the necessary force with the putty knife and when u take off the WiFi/Bluetooth antennas, but other than that it's not all that difficult.
Upgrading from 1GB to 4GB really improves multitasking performance.
@SanSuMartialArts Yeah, you're a retard. I feel slightly retarded myself for responding to your troll bait, but I can't help myself, especially since you used the word "through" instead of "throw". Simply amazing.
I'm impressed at how professional this instructional video is. I haven't done a lot of business with OWC in the past, but everything so far is exceeding my expectations.
my friend sloppily installed 4gb of ram on my early 09 model. when i took it home to turn it on, it has blinking folder with question mark. what does this mean!??!!?? arghhh... damn wish i waited another year for the newer model. I told him to watch these instructional videos, he skimmed through a couple.
@angus244 The blinking folder with the question mark at startup means the computer is looking for the hard drive. If the machine continues booting after this shows up then check System preferences > Startup disk and make sure the drive with your OS is selected. If the machine doesn't boot past the question mark, then when the memory was installed, the hard drive most likely wasn't re-connected during the installation.
@OWCmacsales You're right. I had another friend look at it and connected it properly. It works now but when using Yahoo Messenger, every time I hit ENTER to send a message, I hear a light clicking sound? what's that mean?
@angus244 "my friend sloppily installed 4gb of ram .. told him to watch these instructional videos, he skimmed through a couple."
Another ungrateful computer newbie. Maybe you should have installed it yourself rather than relying on a friend? If you don't want the possibility of a job not being done the way you want, maybe don't ask someone else to do it for you??
Took about 15-20 minutes, and I was being super extra careful with all the little pieces because it was my office computer and I REALLY didn't want to explain to my boss about how I broke the Mac Mini that I *finally* managed to convince them to buy for me!
The upgrade went smoothly and now the old Mini I found at a discount is running at 2 GB more, thank you!
A few comments: A kitchen knife did fine for removing the cover, don't use a sharp one though to avoid damaging the plastic parts. A (weakly) magnetic screwdriver is highly recommended, especially for replacing the screws which was the hardest part for me.
@chieferproductions The memory for both the 2009 & 2010 models are the same (macmini3,1 and macmini4,1). Follow the link in the description for more details.
@chieferproductions The ModelID macmini3,1 models install is exactly as seen in this video. The macmini4,1 models (aluminum body model) is very different, but we have a video on that installation too. Just check our YouTube channel.
@kennyGba1 The Mac mini is Apple's entry-level computer with a solid range of features. The 2009 version includes a FireWire 800 port, five USB 2.0 ports, support for two monitors, built-in 802.11n wireless, bluetooth, & 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, as well as optical digital audio input and output.
More importantly though, the Mac mini runs the Mac OS X operating system. Because Apple makes both the hardware and the software, everything just works. Like a computer should.
@kennyGba1 It really isn't all THAT hard to upgrade... But, yes, I guess I'd say it's still more difficult to upgrade than your standard PC tower.
Mac OS X issues are usually pretty easy to troubleshoot.. I guess hardware issues would be more difficult than on a PC, but I've never had any hardware issues. I suppose most people would just take their MM back to Apple if they had a hardware issue --
-- but none of this is really that different than any notebook computer. Harder to upgrade, etc.
@kennyGba1 Contrary to what some other commenters say, we *do* believe this to be a more advanced upgrade.
If you watch what you're doing, follow the instructions completely, and take your time, this is certainly something that can be done at home. However, we also realize there are some who would just rather have it done for them. That's why we have our Installation Service, a link to which can be found in this video's info.
Thanks for the guide :) I just used it to upgrade my mac mini during lunch break. Like alonis two of my antenna cable connectors came unsnapped but they were easily put back into place.
Success! It is very important to remove the tape that holds one of the antenna wires. I tried to skip that but the wire came unbuttoned from the board. I was able to snap it back; but that snap was the most difficult part of the whole operation.
@alonois Luckily the cable came "unsnapped" - out of all of the components inside the Mac mini, that connection has given the most trouble in upgrading. We've seen on more than one occasion the snap connection hold more fast than the solder underneath.
@no2nonsense Commercial Blue-ray movie playback not supported in OS X, however, you can burn to blu-ray media using software that supports it, such as Toast Titanium by Roxio. To do so, you can use an external blu-ray burner over USB or FireWire.
@jeremoviesinc I would not suggest a screwdriver. The shaft is too thick - you risk breaking the casing. Ideally you want something 1-3 inches wide and thin with some rigidity to push each of the white clips inside inwards while at the same time pushing downward on the casing.
I've seen plenty of household alternates work such as a spatula or pie server, but really, a putty knife is the best tool for the job and can be inexpensively obtained at any local hardware or home improvement store.
Thanks for this. Followed your guide to the letter. Stuck a gig in. I'm not into fiddly but this was easy tbh.20 mins.done, thanks to you. Cheers. (My early 2009 mini can handle anything I throw at it now, fast and slick.)
I just upgraded my memory to 2G.....what a MONSTER difference! Why on earth they only gave me 0.5G is beyond me. P.S. Its a easy as pie. In short, 4 screws in and out, put cover back on! Good video
@deindeck The only other upgrade that will offer some speed would be to go with a faster hard drive. I assume the original 5400RPM hard drive is currently installed. Going to a 7200RPM drive or a Solid State Drive (SSD) would allow you to eek every little bit of speed possible from the mini.
@deindeck The 2006 Mac mini (Macmini1,1) can accept up to 2GB of memory (and yes, that will make the machine go faster). Follow the "Memory available at" link in the information section of this page to choose the correct memory and see our DIY Installation Video for that model of mini.
It would really depend on the blade. Ideally you want something 1-3 inches wide and thin with some rigidity to push each of the white clips inside inwards while at the same time pushing downward on the casing.
I've seen plenty of household alternates work such as a spatula or pie server, but really, a putty knife is the best tool for the job and can be inexpensively obtained at any local hardware or home improvement store.
the 2009 model, which is currently sold by Apple and Best Buy when bought with only the 2GB Ram inside, really only has 1 module inside? As seen by the one in this video that you upgraded.
It is much more likely that if you bought the machine with 2GB of memory, that you would find two 1GB memory modules inside. That is how Apple currently configures the machines. This video was made when 1GB of memory was the base option on the Mac mini in Early 2009 (It wasn't until October '09 that the base machine came with 2GB minimum).
Off topic, but I'm considering a Mac mini to replace my PC. Does it get fairly hot while sitting on a table? I noticed that the vents are on the bottom..
Also, would you reccomend 4GB of memory for someone who'd be putting MS Office on it, as well as some additional software?
is the RAM modules used in the mac mini the same used in most laptops? in other words, should I be able to take the RAM installed in my laptop and put it in the mac mini?
The Early 2009 Mac mini uses PC8500 DDR3 SDRAM 204-pin 1066MHz memory upgrades, which are used in many (but by no stretch of the imagination most) laptops. So it would entirely depend on what laptop you have as to whether the memory is compatible.
It really depends on the laptop and if you're removing the same memory modules. Feel free to give us a call at 1(800)275-4576 and we can verify if the memory is the same for you.
I'd just like to say a big THANK YOU for producing this video. While it is fiddly to change the RAM, it is not impossible with step-by-step and concise instructions such as this. My local Apple store quoted me £360 per Kingston 4GB stick of ram (seriously!!!) which included fitting. I think I'm going to source them elsewhere and fit them myself.
Installing the upgrades in and of themselves does not void Apple's warranty. HOWEVER, the warranty does not cover any damages that may result from doing so and physically damaging the computer will void the warranty.
@jgrosse5554 The 2005 released PowerPC G4 Mac Mini can accept one PC2700 DDR 333MHz 184 Pin DIMM (that's full size 'desktop' memory) up to 1GB in capacity.
Great video! Took me about 20 minutes, most of it getting the cover off. It was totally worth voiding the warranty. It's up in six months anyhow. During install, my AirPort antenna disconnected and I did not reconnect the audio ribbon correctly. I learned that you can never be too careful around these connections.
this is "advanced" ??? omg... just take the cover off, remove some screws, pop in the new memory and thats it. omg... if this is rated as "advanced", then how would be a really advanced upgrade...
great tutorial, thanks for your help. when i buy a mac mini in a couple of weeks im gonna buy the one with the least amount of ram, and upgrade it myself, just to learn how to do this :D
so , i did it and works great. I did however break off one of my air port wire antena. The first one that is attached to the drive side.works fine...am i going to be ok ,or should i start taking soddering classes?
I have a gig of stock mac mini ddr3 ram from 2009 model that I don't need anymore. If anyone wants a free gig let me know, u can send self addressed envelope and its yours.
Some one contacted me but never got back to me after i sent address. Unfortunatly I erased my emails I'm not sure who it was, but if i don't receive anything from that person in 3 days ill assume it was a no go. MY ADRESS IS 3640 GRANBY DR SACRAMENTO CA 95827. WAIT 3 day's, if i don't get anything from him, CONTACT me to confirm, and U CAN HAVE IT.
Found the guy. Waiting for response. I just wanted to make sure I wouldn't make a promise i couldn't keep. Hopefully he'll respond soon, if not, like i said it's your's.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
Build your own pc - and install OSX on it. You can buy an empty mac G5 alluminium case nowadays for not too much. You'll have a decent speced hackintosh for the same price. Google "insanely mac"/"osx86". You'll have complete control of upgradability.
Good video. I'd never have gotten the cover open nor found the right screws without watching this first. This made the job easy for anyone comfortable working with electronic gear. But, don't try this unless you understand what's under the hood!
Hey does anyone know the Max specs for the Mac Mini? mainly how big of a hard drive and memory can it support?
CPU is soldered in and the graphics is integrated, so the Memory and the Hard drive are the only thing you can upgrade yourself on the mini? (Not including crazy advanced mods i.e. Soldering Gun)
The HDD depends on the drive used. There isn't a "limit" on what the computer will support. It can use the biggest of whatever type of drive it takes, IE 3.5 SATA, 2.5 SATA, SATA 2, etc. As far as RAM...Each slot supports up to 2GB RAM and there are two slots.
And it's not that hard, the only thing that is a littleharder is first openning the case with the pry tool, carefull not to scratch your brand new Mac Mini :))
Thank you! I just upgraded to 4GB of memory. and found out the original one has a "M" on it. Any idea what brand it is? (and a label indicated that it is from Singapore)
You make this look so easy even though I know it's not
shane8109 2 days ago
Thanks! Made the upgrade simple. Went from 2 Gb to 8Gb - what a difference!!!!
ThePrintzofSweden 1 week ago
is ok to put in any ddr3 memory or it must be apple "certified" memory?
djvladtepes 2 weeks ago
amazing video!!! i did it with no difficulties!!!you guys are so helpful!!! a big Thank you!!!
Frenchtoastdesign 2 weeks ago
Thanks for the great video. I upgraded my mini to 8G for only $50! I had a little trouble getting the screws back in since my screwdriver was not magnetic but it still only took about 20 minutes or so.
mikespille 1 month ago
Thanks a lot for sharing this. You guys are a real asset to the mac community. Followed the instructions and had no problems upgrading my mac mini. Thanks!
acuriousmind79 2 months ago
OWC ROCKS!!!
JoeLever8 2 months ago
10 minutes and not very difficult. Thanks for the video!
Majicgarnet 3 months ago
Really clear instructions, it was easy first time (didn't take as long as 40 minutes though - don't worry!).
It should be noted for first timers, RAM should only be installed in pairs - therefore unless you are installing another 1GB RAM in the second bay, you'll be taking out the 1GB it came with.
You can therefore install either one 2GB or one 4GB RAM - or - a pair of either two 2GB or two 4GB. A combination won't work, they have to match.
Hope that makes sense! Thanks again for a great video.
derekdaze 3 months ago
Good video. Thanks!
robertahaakjr 4 months ago
Absolutely brilliant, bought 4GB off Amazon and installed in using this video, avoided the Apple rip-off prices and also have the original 2GB SODIMM which I can now sell on eBay! Thanks v much
mkim78 5 months ago
This was prob the best vid on upgrading...Thanks Guys :D
savageajames 5 months ago
Thanks so much, went through the video and made the whole process a snap, thanks,,
terryb100 5 months ago
Is it the same process for the Mac mini that came out right before this one? If so do you know how much ram that one is capable of using?
joec6512 5 months ago
@joec6512 It is similar, see our tech center on macsales for the video on that model (too long to be uploaded to YouTube). The Macmini2,1 models are able to accept up to 4GB of memory although 3.0GB is the maximum amount that can be addressed at once.
OWCmacsales 5 months ago
I can install 8gb in 2009 Mac Mini?
mrwilltheboss1 5 months ago
@mrwilltheboss1 Yes, the Mac mini 2009 models can accept up to 8GB total RAM.
OWCmacsales 5 months ago
Thanks for the instructional video but it doesn't look that difficult.
RipTear2010 5 months ago
I just followed the Instructions and upgraded my RAM. THANK YOU SO MUCH its much better. even my internet is much faster now.
manaradni 5 months ago
Another thanks here... Took me 1.5 hours, but I was extra extra careful and in general I'm not fit for these tasks... Yet, nothing was bricked (other than one antenna that disconnected completely and had to be reconnected).
nadafu1 6 months ago
is this the same for a 2006 mac mini with an 1.66ghz intel core duo processor?
reynosamanA3 6 months ago
This is the best tutorial I have seen yet. Thank you for posting this.
poetsguide 7 months ago
It is the MC238T/A Model part number?
gabrydober 7 months ago
@gabrydober Yes, this is the memory installation instructions for all Mac mini models with model identifier Macmini3,1
OWCmacsales 7 months ago
Thank you very much for posting the tutorial on how to upgrade a Mac Mini. Despite all of the upgrades that I have done to my Mac and PC computers (notebook and desktops) over the years, I have never attempted to open such a small and compact device This was nothing like replacing hard drives, optical drives, graphics cards or ram on any other computer... However, my Mini is now running flawlessly now with 8gb of ram! I appreciate the videos, thank you very much and keep ''em coming!
Bbittner5857 8 months ago
great video. thanks!
upgraded my mini from 2x1gb - 1x4gb and remaining 1gb yesterday successfully. watched this video a few times before and during. reset the mini's PRAM afterwards. all is well with it and its much quicker. thanks again!
camdenuploads 9 months ago
Thank you!
vagif 9 months ago
Thanks guys, you just saved me 50EUR and about an hour of my time. Oh and I confess to using a knife as there was no putty knife in the tool box, hehe.
senroeash 10 months ago
Thanks for the step by step instructions!!!!! The install was a breeze!!!!
stazeli 10 months ago
Thanks for the instructions. It was a piece of cake. The scariest part was taking off the casing with the putty knife.
gonzo1082 11 months ago
Takes some courage to apply the necessary force with the putty knife and when u take off the WiFi/Bluetooth antennas, but other than that it's not all that difficult.
Upgrading from 1GB to 4GB really improves multitasking performance.
Molo9000 11 months ago
APPLE SUCKS, I COMMENCE WAR, APPLE FOOLS
cactussheep 1 year ago
they forgot to add to through that whole damn thing in the trash and get a pc .. yeah i said it a pc ... start the hate now!!
SanSuMartialArts 1 year ago
@SanSuMartialArts Yeah, you're a retard. I feel slightly retarded myself for responding to your troll bait, but I can't help myself, especially since you used the word "through" instead of "throw". Simply amazing.
I'm impressed at how professional this instructional video is. I haven't done a lot of business with OWC in the past, but everything so far is exceeding my expectations.
TheRealHazMatt 1 year ago
@TheRealHazMatt lol go boot up you mac and relax ... you can have your horrible computer and ill have my usable one
SanSuMartialArts 1 year ago
@SanSuMartialArts - You are obviously a "PC PERSON". Why did you bother watching this video. Are you brain-dead?
thebriantampa 9 months ago 2
This tutorial helped me upgrade the memory in my mac mini. Happy to say it's installed and working perfectly. Thanks so much!!
CheesyMcK 1 year ago
my friend sloppily installed 4gb of ram on my early 09 model. when i took it home to turn it on, it has blinking folder with question mark. what does this mean!??!!?? arghhh... damn wish i waited another year for the newer model. I told him to watch these instructional videos, he skimmed through a couple.
angus244 1 year ago
@angus244 The blinking folder with the question mark at startup means the computer is looking for the hard drive. If the machine continues booting after this shows up then check System preferences > Startup disk and make sure the drive with your OS is selected. If the machine doesn't boot past the question mark, then when the memory was installed, the hard drive most likely wasn't re-connected during the installation.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago 4
@OWCmacsales You're right. I had another friend look at it and connected it properly. It works now but when using Yahoo Messenger, every time I hit ENTER to send a message, I hear a light clicking sound? what's that mean?
angus244 1 year ago
@angus244 "my friend sloppily installed 4gb of ram .. told him to watch these instructional videos, he skimmed through a couple."
Another ungrateful computer newbie. Maybe you should have installed it yourself rather than relying on a friend? If you don't want the possibility of a job not being done the way you want, maybe don't ask someone else to do it for you??
PaulMdx 1 year ago 3
Took about 15-20 minutes, and I was being super extra careful with all the little pieces because it was my office computer and I REALLY didn't want to explain to my boss about how I broke the Mac Mini that I *finally* managed to convince them to buy for me!
jruddock 1 year ago
The upgrade went smoothly and now the old Mini I found at a discount is running at 2 GB more, thank you!
A few comments: A kitchen knife did fine for removing the cover, don't use a sharp one though to avoid damaging the plastic parts. A (weakly) magnetic screwdriver is highly recommended, especially for replacing the screws which was the hardest part for me.
jsleinonen 1 year ago
You forgot to reinstall the tape of the left bottom antena:P
Mcattttt 1 year ago
Will memory upgrade for a late 2009 Mac Mini be the same?
chieferproductions 1 year ago
@chieferproductions The memory for both the 2009 & 2010 models are the same (macmini3,1 and macmini4,1). Follow the link in the description for more details.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@OWCmacsales Sorry I was referring to the method of upgrading the memory. Eg : Is the internal setup the same?
chieferproductions 1 year ago
@chieferproductions The ModelID macmini3,1 models install is exactly as seen in this video. The macmini4,1 models (aluminum body model) is very different, but we have a video on that installation too. Just check our YouTube channel.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
upgraded, thank you!
rtiziano 1 year ago
Is it possible to extend the interface? such like Sound blast card and VGA card? if I need more powerful interface?
kennyGba1 1 year ago
@kennyGba1 No, there are not expansion slots to install any add-on cards into.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@OWCmacsales if it is not possible to expansion the slot then what's the strength of this mini mac? because its price is really high.
kennyGba1 1 year ago
@OWCmacsales So, why the price can be such so high? what's its strength?
kennyGba1 1 year ago
@kennyGba1 The Mac mini is Apple's entry-level computer with a solid range of features. The 2009 version includes a FireWire 800 port, five USB 2.0 ports, support for two monitors, built-in 802.11n wireless, bluetooth, & 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, as well as optical digital audio input and output.
More importantly though, the Mac mini runs the Mac OS X operating system. Because Apple makes both the hardware and the software, everything just works. Like a computer should.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@kennyGba1 The Mac Mini is small, elegant, and very portable. It's really a laptop without the keyboard and screen if you think about it.
I use one at the office. When I go on a trip or feel like taking my work home, I just unplug it and throw it in my bag.
It support 2 monitors right out of the box, and has built in speakers, wifi, and bluetooth.
It *is* more expensive and lack / difficulty of upgrading is something to think about -- but I have to report that I really love mine!
jruddock 1 year ago
@jruddock The Mini Mac can't upgrade and extension easily, also it is very hard to trouble shooting by user, right?
kennyGba1 1 year ago
@kennyGba1 It really isn't all THAT hard to upgrade... But, yes, I guess I'd say it's still more difficult to upgrade than your standard PC tower.
Mac OS X issues are usually pretty easy to troubleshoot.. I guess hardware issues would be more difficult than on a PC, but I've never had any hardware issues. I suppose most people would just take their MM back to Apple if they had a hardware issue --
-- but none of this is really that different than any notebook computer. Harder to upgrade, etc.
jruddock 1 year ago
I think it is still too difficult for general people, the design looks great but also it is not easy to maintain.
kennyGba1 1 year ago
@kennyGba1 Contrary to what some other commenters say, we *do* believe this to be a more advanced upgrade.
If you watch what you're doing, follow the instructions completely, and take your time, this is certainly something that can be done at home. However, we also realize there are some who would just rather have it done for them. That's why we have our Installation Service, a link to which can be found in this video's info.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
Thanks for the guide :) I just used it to upgrade my mac mini during lunch break. Like alonis two of my antenna cable connectors came unsnapped but they were easily put back into place.
afahmed 1 year ago
Success! It is very important to remove the tape that holds one of the antenna wires. I tried to skip that but the wire came unbuttoned from the board. I was able to snap it back; but that snap was the most difficult part of the whole operation.
alonois 1 year ago
@alonois Luckily the cable came "unsnapped" - out of all of the components inside the Mac mini, that connection has given the most trouble in upgrading. We've seen on more than one occasion the snap connection hold more fast than the solder underneath.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
thanks!!
salvadordali111 1 year ago
I have a MacBook Pro 13 2.26 IntelCore2Duo Mid 2009 model.
Can anyone help me know if the Graphics card of this model is compliant to a Bluray Drive connected externally via USB.
If No, is there any MacBook Pro that can run a BluRay in itself or externally.
Thank You.
no2nonsense 1 year ago
@no2nonsense Commercial Blue-ray movie playback not supported in OS X, however, you can burn to blu-ray media using software that supports it, such as Toast Titanium by Roxio. To do so, you can use an external blu-ray burner over USB or FireWire.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@OWCmacsales
-Thanks for the reply.
-Please let me know if the External Bluray Drive can be played on a Windows 7 Virtual Machine running on Mac Book?.
-Is the Graphics card Nvidia Ge force 9400 -256MB of MacBook Pro 13 Mid 2009 BluRay Drive compatible?.
no2nonsense 1 year ago
Excellent - super easy to understand and follow. Well done and many thanks.
ytun075 1 year ago
what is the max ram on the mac mini? i have 4 gig but i heard you can put 6 gig is that correct?
leodiaz117816 1 year ago
@leodiaz117816 depends on the model of Mac mini you have.
The Intel Macmini3,1 can accept up to 8GB of memory (shown in this video)
The Intel Macmini2,1 can accept up to 4GB of memory (but only 3GB is addressed)
The Intel Macmini1,1 can accept up to 2GB of memory
and the Power PC G4 Mac mini can accept up to 1GB of memory
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@OWCmacsales well i have the early 2009 so idk what it is.
leodiaz117816 1 year ago
@leodiaz117816 The Intel Macmini3,1 came out in early 2009
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@OWCmacsales so i can put 8 gig of ram then? i mean nothing would happen to my mac mini?
leodiaz117816 1 year ago
4.30
beautiful.
stanny111 1 year ago
your voice is very calming.
cheezecakeV2 1 year ago
Can I use a flathead screwdriver instead of a putty knife?
jeremoviesinc 1 year ago
@jeremoviesinc I would not suggest a screwdriver. The shaft is too thick - you risk breaking the casing. Ideally you want something 1-3 inches wide and thin with some rigidity to push each of the white clips inside inwards while at the same time pushing downward on the casing.
I've seen plenty of household alternates work such as a spatula or pie server, but really, a putty knife is the best tool for the job and can be inexpensively obtained at any local hardware or home improvement store.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@deindeck Ebay.
liamgreen94 1 year ago
hmm, when I put it back, it didn't fully go in, the corner where the power button is, it works perfectly fine tho, it's a few mm displaced
SesshoKira 1 year ago
Thanks for this. Followed your guide to the letter. Stuck a gig in. I'm not into fiddly but this was easy tbh.20 mins.done, thanks to you. Cheers. (My early 2009 mini can handle anything I throw at it now, fast and slick.)
nechance 1 year ago
@YourAppleBoy Yes, the instructions are the same for both the Early and Late 2009 Mac mini machines with model identifier
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
I have a lunchbox that looks just like that!
zottnandre 1 year ago
I just upgraded my memory to 2G.....what a MONSTER difference! Why on earth they only gave me 0.5G is beyond me. P.S. Its a easy as pie. In short, 4 screws in and out, put cover back on! Good video
TheGreavette 1 year ago
@deindeck Other World Computing - of course!
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@deindeck The only other upgrade that will offer some speed would be to go with a faster hard drive. I assume the original 5400RPM hard drive is currently installed. Going to a 7200RPM drive or a Solid State Drive (SSD) would allow you to eek every little bit of speed possible from the mini.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
@deindeck The 2006 Mac mini (Macmini1,1) can accept up to 2GB of memory (and yes, that will make the machine go faster). Follow the "Memory available at" link in the information section of this page to choose the correct memory and see our DIY Installation Video for that model of mini.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
thanks
alltoorobot 1 year ago
how do you discharge static electrically first? might have missed this answer in comments, say again if poss, cheers.
NaturesVillian 1 year ago
@NaturesVillian See the "more info" section - We've added a link to our tips on Discharging Static Electricity.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
thanks buddy
NaturesVillian 1 year ago
I don't have a putty knife, would a pocket knife work?
GavinRoskamp 1 year ago
It would really depend on the blade. Ideally you want something 1-3 inches wide and thin with some rigidity to push each of the white clips inside inwards while at the same time pushing downward on the casing.
I've seen plenty of household alternates work such as a spatula or pie server, but really, a putty knife is the best tool for the job and can be inexpensively obtained at any local hardware or home improvement store.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
the 2009 model, which is currently sold by Apple and Best Buy when bought with only the 2GB Ram inside, really only has 1 module inside? As seen by the one in this video that you upgraded.
Khalaine 1 year ago
It is much more likely that if you bought the machine with 2GB of memory, that you would find two 1GB memory modules inside. That is how Apple currently configures the machines. This video was made when 1GB of memory was the base option on the Mac mini in Early 2009 (It wasn't until October '09 that the base machine came with 2GB minimum).
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
Off topic, but I'm considering a Mac mini to replace my PC. Does it get fairly hot while sitting on a table? I noticed that the vents are on the bottom..
Also, would you reccomend 4GB of memory for someone who'd be putting MS Office on it, as well as some additional software?
Needsdecaf 1 year ago
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get a dell for the same price. so much more powerful more or less same form factor.
bulliethepirate 1 year ago
is the RAM modules used in the mac mini the same used in most laptops? in other words, should I be able to take the RAM installed in my laptop and put it in the mac mini?
marcopchen 1 year ago
The Early 2009 Mac mini uses PC8500 DDR3 SDRAM 204-pin 1066MHz memory upgrades, which are used in many (but by no stretch of the imagination most) laptops. So it would entirely depend on what laptop you have as to whether the memory is compatible.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
When using the putty knife, does it scratch anything?
GavinRoskamp 1 year ago
If done carefully, there shouldn't be any scratches or any other damage from opening the mini.
OWCmacsales 1 year ago
my laptop has 4gb of memory, if i bought the 2gb mac mini could i remove 2gb of memory from my laptop and have this installed in the mac mini?
quest8899 2 years ago
It really depends on the laptop and if you're removing the same memory modules. Feel free to give us a call at 1(800)275-4576 and we can verify if the memory is the same for you.
OWCmacsales 2 years ago
I'd just like to say a big THANK YOU for producing this video. While it is fiddly to change the RAM, it is not impossible with step-by-step and concise instructions such as this. My local Apple store quoted me £360 per Kingston 4GB stick of ram (seriously!!!) which included fitting. I think I'm going to source them elsewhere and fit them myself.
Many thanks! x
stuwyatt 2 years ago 8
does this void the warranty?
lodman97 2 years ago
Installing the upgrades in and of themselves does not void Apple's warranty. HOWEVER, the warranty does not cover any damages that may result from doing so and physically damaging the computer will void the warranty.
OWCmacsales 2 years ago
Actually how big is the Mac Mini?
Healy911 2 years ago
@Healy911 Mac mini specifications:
Height: 2 inches (5.08 cm)
Width: 6.5 inches (16.51 cm)
Depth: 6.5 inches (16.51 cm)
Weight: appx. 2.9 pounds (1.31 kg)
OWCmacsales 2 years ago
What is the maximum amount of memory that a 2009 mac mini (with leopard) will recognize?
ArtisticEntrepreneur 2 years ago
@ArtisticEntrepreneur The 2009 Mac mini (Model ID Macmini3,1) can accept up to 8GB of memory in two 4GB PC8500 DDR3 1066MHz So-DIMMs
OWCmacsales 2 years ago
Does the mac mini g4 use desktop or notebook memory?
jgrosse5554 2 years ago
Probably a notebook, desktop RAM is usually more bigger in lath.
SollriderTX1 2 years ago
I opened it and put new RAM in it last night.Turns out, it was desktop
jgrosse5554 2 years ago
Oh thanks. Wow I was about to ruin my Mini.
SollriderTX1 2 years ago
Do you have a mac mini g4 or the new intel mini?
jgrosse5554 2 years ago
intel.
SollriderTX1 2 years ago
no the intel one does have laptop memory sorry. The g4,which I have, has desktop memory
jgrosse5554 2 years ago
@jgrosse5554 The 2005 released PowerPC G4 Mac Mini can accept one PC2700 DDR 333MHz 184 Pin DIMM (that's full size 'desktop' memory) up to 1GB in capacity.
OWCmacsales 2 years ago
I found that a pizza cutter works better than the putty knife.
DVGRRJM 2 years ago
Great tutorial. Just bought a late 2006 1,83 GHz mini with 2 x 256 MB SDRAM. Any tips on where to find at least 2 x 1 GB SDRAM?
peterdigit 2 years ago
wait for my video i have old mac mini im upgrading to 1gb
neilgerald77 2 years ago
Newegg.
chkdg8 2 years ago
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LOL This is advanced? I built a PC from scratch when I was 11, this is just about 4 minutes of work...
redsoxhater2468 2 years ago
Maybe it's advanced without breaking the warranty
waynegacy666 2 years ago
If anyone has an extra 1GB left over after there installation I would be interested in it. Please let me know. Thanks!!
skimobear 2 years ago
this doesn't take 40 minutes. im 13, and it took me 15 minutes
SmashStuffGuys 2 years ago 7
@SmashStuffGuys It took me 45 minutes... but I was pretty drunk at the time.
jonlefave 1 year ago
Great video! Took me about 20 minutes, most of it getting the cover off. It was totally worth voiding the warranty. It's up in six months anyhow. During install, my AirPort antenna disconnected and I did not reconnect the audio ribbon correctly. I learned that you can never be too careful around these connections.
yazoo68 2 years ago
WOW, this is easy. Anyone with some knowledge could do this. Im only 12 and I did this in 20 minutes.
techkid1000 2 years ago
@techkid1000 I'm only 11 and I did this in 10 minutes.
kishka4eva 1 year ago
@kishka4eva I'm 12 and what is this?
cheezecakeV2 1 year ago
anyone think theres is a noticable performance difference between the 2.26 and 2.53 ghz?
vistaway3008 2 years ago
yes i think there is a small difference especially when turning on the computer
camelsmaycry 2 years ago
a difference worth $150?
Also, is it possible to upgrade the processor yourself?
vistaway3008 2 years ago
since you know more than me in cpu's whats the biggest cpu the mac mini can handle
camelsmaycry 2 years ago
I have no idea, i was just wondering if you think the difference is worth an extra $150 (that's what apple charges for the upgrade)
Is upgrading the processor something than can be done DIY? or is this something apple would HAVE to do...? just curious..
vistaway3008 2 years ago
Thank you, Mister Data, for that helpful and informative video.
paulrand333 2 years ago
is the difference noticable? from 1gb to 2gb
freshest007 2 years ago
yea it is its not gunna be as fast and 1gb is for like basic needs so cant really put alot of music on it
jiggles26 2 years ago
If you upgrade from 1gb to 2gb, the Nvidia 9400M video chipset will allocate 256mb for itself instead of 128 - so you get more video RAM.
Also, I've noticed that OS X itself takes up quite a bit of RAM. I'd think 2gb of RAM should be the minimum for OS X.
jadetraveler 2 years ago
yes
ThingsontheWeb 2 years ago
this is "advanced" ??? omg... just take the cover off, remove some screws, pop in the new memory and thats it. omg... if this is rated as "advanced", then how would be a really advanced upgrade...
adam10603 2 years ago
you seem to know what your talking about... doing this procedure, will it void my warranty?
BrambleH 2 years ago
I've heard that if you don't break anything while doing this procedure, you won't void your warranty.
jadetraveler 2 years ago
I was just thinking the same thing, and I think of myself as an amateur.
magog1138 2 years ago
Hopefully the next version of the Mini wont be such a pain to upgrade. Apple's own memory prices are rediculous.
tipoomaster 2 years ago
great tutorial, thanks for your help. when i buy a mac mini in a couple of weeks im gonna buy the one with the least amount of ram, and upgrade it myself, just to learn how to do this :D
steeeven1 2 years ago
so , i did it and works great. I did however break off one of my air port wire antena. The first one that is attached to the drive side.works fine...am i going to be ok ,or should i start taking soddering classes?
MassVortexx 2 years ago
That seems easy enough.
bgggbb 2 years ago 2
とても参考になりました。
0927kaikai 2 years ago
What a boring voice! LOL
ularuAlex 2 years ago
I have a gig of stock mac mini ddr3 ram from 2009 model that I don't need anymore. If anyone wants a free gig let me know, u can send self addressed envelope and its yours.
benthemiester 2 years ago 2
Let me know your address and I will send you the envelope.
pkaitkay 2 years ago
Some one contacted me but never got back to me after i sent address. Unfortunatly I erased my emails I'm not sure who it was, but if i don't receive anything from that person in 3 days ill assume it was a no go. MY ADRESS IS 3640 GRANBY DR SACRAMENTO CA 95827. WAIT 3 day's, if i don't get anything from him, CONTACT me to confirm, and U CAN HAVE IT.
benthemiester 2 years ago
Found the guy. Waiting for response. I just wanted to make sure I wouldn't make a promise i couldn't keep. Hopefully he'll respond soon, if not, like i said it's your's.
benthemiester 2 years ago
Eeek that voice is kinda creapy
Organasum 2 years ago
I need some big persuading to buy one of these and not build my own pc, someone do it I want one soo bad :D
FSXRyan 2 years ago
the persuading could be: that any pc you could build og buy your self, wouldn't be a mac.
thomasholmfrandsen 2 years ago
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Build your own pc - and install OSX on it. You can buy an empty mac G5 alluminium case nowadays for not too much. You'll have a decent speced hackintosh for the same price. Google "insanely mac"/"osx86". You'll have complete control of upgradability.
surm00 2 years ago
Good video. I'd never have gotten the cover open nor found the right screws without watching this first. This made the job easy for anyone comfortable working with electronic gear. But, don't try this unless you understand what's under the hood!
sidelobe 2 years ago
how do you de static the mac mini before you...upgrade the ram?
Mario4Italy 2 years ago
nice vid thx man
liuwei192008 2 years ago
Hey does anyone know the Max specs for the Mac Mini? mainly how big of a hard drive and memory can it support?
CPU is soldered in and the graphics is integrated, so the Memory and the Hard drive are the only thing you can upgrade yourself on the mini? (Not including crazy advanced mods i.e. Soldering Gun)
happyhopper 2 years ago
The HDD depends on the drive used. There isn't a "limit" on what the computer will support. It can use the biggest of whatever type of drive it takes, IE 3.5 SATA, 2.5 SATA, SATA 2, etc. As far as RAM...Each slot supports up to 2GB RAM and there are two slots.
yadayadaya 2 years ago
This probably sounds like a stupid question to some of you but what would higher RAM result in computer performance wise.
dbzphish84 2 years ago
the more ram you have the faster you computer can boot up, run applications and play games. so a ram upgrade is ALWAYS great
crowfaceltd 2 years ago
Cool, thanks Crowfaceltd. I'm defiantly upgrading my Mac Mini's RAM.
dbzphish84 2 years ago
Faster, more programs available to run at the speed of running one etc.
basketball8d8 2 years ago
speed
arronhunt 2 years ago
very helpful, thanks
eckndu 2 years ago
Thanks. Just done memory 20 2GB and Hard Drive to 320GB. Saved about £100 :-)
dolphinit 2 years ago
does this void the warrenty
catch22678 2 years ago 2
Nope
luerexbob 2 years ago
it dose
everday13 2 years ago
Yes it does
RKChrome 2 years ago
This is a great video!
Thanks a lot
BTW: It takes 15-20 min, not 40...
And it's not that hard, the only thing that is a littleharder is first openning the case with the pry tool, carefull not to scratch your brand new Mac Mini :))
mavni 2 years ago
Thank you for this great instructional video.
Now have 4gigs in my Mini.
Tip: a "magnetic" screwdriver is recommended.
jpvissers 2 years ago
Thank you! I just upgraded to 4GB of memory. and found out the original one has a "M" on it. Any idea what brand it is? (and a label indicated that it is from Singapore)
graveyard909 2 years ago
The memory you're referring to is most likely the Micron brand.
OWCmacsales 2 years ago
very nice to looked inside
b00nsmoviesss 2 years ago
Nice tutorial - very well put together.
I was just curious what a Mini looked like inside since I've never had one.
pmgodfrey 2 years ago