Product Notes: Apple Mac Pro (early 2008)

January 9th, 2008

On January 9th, 2008 Apple announced a new version of the Mac Pro, which they are designating the Mac Pro (early 2008). This is the second significant revision to Apple's high-end Intel-based desktop workstation, which was originally introduced in September 2006 (the first revision was in April 2007).

The Mac Pro (early 2008) adds a 1600 MHz front side bus while taking advantage of Intel's recently released Quad-Core 5400 series Xeon processors. It also adds PCI Express 2.0 support along with support for a maximum of 4 graphics cards. Finally, it doubles maximum RAM from 16 GB to 32 GB of RAM.

Several notes when ordering a Mac Pro:

1. The new Mac Pro retains the same basic enclosure as previous Mac Pros and Power Mac G5s - a design in use since 2003. These are heavy (over 40 pounds) and somewhat unwieldy towers. On the other hand, they are well-built along with being easy to access and relatively easy to expand.
2. Though Apple is not participating in the 80 Plus certification program, all Mac Pro (early 2008) power supplies are more than 80% efficient.
3. These Mac Pros require Apple's Mac OS 10.5 Leopard operating system, which is not compatible with all Mac OS applications in use at the University. For more information, see the Mac OS 10.5 Leopard for Providers page.
4. Though Apple has not made it part of the default configuration for the Mac Pro, Information Systems & Computing (ISC) believes that AppleCare should be considered by Schools and Centers ordering desktop systems.

Analysis

The Mac Pro (early 2008) is a significant update to Apple's high-end enterprise desktops, with an improved chipset and more configuration flexibility. However, it still does not include a high-capacity DVD drive such as Blu-ray (either standard or as an option) and it remains expensive compared to other expandable desktops (though competitively priced with high-end workstations).

Any Mac Pro easily exceeds ISC's current Performance PC specification. As always, support providers should be aware of the technical issues associated with any new system design.

Overall, ISC believes that the Mac Pro (early 2008) is a good choice going forward for users with high-end processing needs such as desktop publishing or HD video. The majority of Mac OS users who need a 4-year desktop system will be better matched with an iMac.

--John Mulhern III, Senior Project Leader, ISC Technology Support Services (January 9th, 2008)