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Intel Mac mini Q&A - Updated November 5, 2009
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Does the Intel Mac mini have a ROM or BIOS?
The Intel Mac mini systems use Intel's Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) rather than the traditional Macintosh ROM or PC BIOS.
Can Intel Mac mini systems be stacked on top of one another?
No. Apple recommends against stacking multiple Intel Mac mini systems on top of one another because this can restrict airflow and reduce the signal strength of AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth (if installed). However, Apple says that it is okay to place an Intel Mac mini on it side. For information on appropriate positioning, please refer to "How to Position Your Mac mini" from the Apple Support Site.
Can the Intel Mac mini be installed in a car?
Although Apple does not officially support such use, numerous people have noticed that the compact size of the Mac mini makes it possible to install the system in the dash of some vehicles.
For a particularly impressive custom installation of a Mac mini in a VW GTi, be sure to check out to Matt Turner's blog.
Does the Intel Mac mini have a PCI slot?
No. The Intel Mac mini is designed to be simple, small, and inexpensive, and consequently, there are no PCI slots.
If expansion is a top priority, and cost is a factor, you probably would be better served with a computer from the discontinued Power Macintosh G5 or Power Macintosh G4 lines.
What are the capabilities of the optical drive provided by the Intel Mac mini models? Which can read and write dual-layer DVDs?
The capabilities of the optical drive in each Intel-based Mac mini system are provided on the specs page for each model. However, for your convenience, this information also is provided below:
Intel Mac mini | Optical Drive |
8X "Combo Drive" | |
2.4X "SuperDrive"* | |
2.4X "SuperDrive" | |
8X "Combo Drive" | |
2.4X "SuperDrive"* | |
8X DL "SuperDrive"† | |
8X DL "SuperDrive"† | |
8X DL "SuperDrive"† | |
8X DL "SuperDrive"† |
* The first configuration of the Mac mini "Core Duo" 1.66 (MA206LL/A) and "Mid-2007" Mac mini "Core 2 Duo" 2.0 have an optical drive that can read and write dual layer DVD+R discs.
† The "Early 2009" and "Late 2009" models have an optical drive that can read and write dual layer DVD+R and DVD-R discs.
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