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Mid 2012 Macs sans GPUs...thoughts

Posted: Thu Oct 25, 2012 10:26 pm
by stphntylr
So the refresh of the new Macs left us in an interesting situation.

There are no longer dedicated GPUs available in the Mac Mini line. However with the Quad Core i7 now available in the regular channels and not just server and the fact that we are given the intel 4000 series integrated, is it still a viable machine for GPU intensive tasks like MadMapper? Does the trade off of two additional (more powerful) CPU cores outweigh the loss of the dedicated GPU?

The rMBP's are another area of interest. I have seen reports of the 15" model driving three additional displays with no issue, potentially relieving the need for a TripleH2Go type device, however the 13" again lost the GPU, and have only the dual core CPUs available. I am assuming that the 13" will not be a viable machine to drive additional screens like the 15" can with the quad and the GPU.

Will that effect the 13" ability to be useful with a TripleH2Go type setup?

Obviously some will have to get into the hands of the end users to really test, just wondering if anyone here had any opinions or insights.

Re: Mid 2012 Macs sans GPUs...thoughts

Posted: Sat Oct 27, 2012 1:58 pm
by franz
We cannot recommend an integrated video chip such as Intel's.
If possible, and for better performances, prefer a dedicated GPU card.

Re: Mid 2012 Macs sans GPUs...thoughts

Posted: Sun Oct 28, 2012 3:09 am
by lotech
I'm totally bummed but the loss of the GPU on the Minis. Glad we have 2 of the old models now.
I would say keep an eye on the Apple refurb site if you really need a Mini with the GPU.

Re: Mid 2012 Macs sans GPUs...thoughts

Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2014 7:29 am
by adson3492
I'm finally getting back to this. I think I must be daft - I can't see any way to re-order surfaces. I've tried dragging a surface to a lower spot on the list of surfaces, but it always goes back to the original spot. So how does one re-order them?