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What type of video processor is provided by the Aluminum iMac systems? Which have dedicated memory? Which have integrated memory? Is it upgradable?
Details regarding the video processor provided by each Aluminum iMac are included on the applicable specifications page. However, standard configurations of stock models also are included below:
Aluminum iMac |
Video Processor |
128 MB Radeon HD 2400 XT |
|
256 MB Radeon HD 2600 PRO |
|
256 MB Radeon HD 2600 PRO |
|
256 MB Radeon HD 2600 PRO |
|
128 MB Radeon HD 2400 XT |
|
256 MB Radeon HD 2600 PRO |
|
256 MB Radeon HD 2600 PRO |
|
512 MB GeForce 8800 GS |
|
256 MB GeForce 9400M* |
|
256 MB GeForce 9400M* |
|
256 MB GeForce GT 120 |
|
512 MB GeForce GT 130 |
|
256 MB GeForce 9400M* |
|
256 MB GeForce 9400M** |
|
256 MB Radeon HD 4670 |
|
512 MB Radeon HD 4850 |
|
256 MB Radeon HD 4670 |
|
512 MB Radeon HD 5670 |
|
512 MB Radeon HD 5670 |
|
1 GB Radeon HD 5750 |
|
512 MB Radeon HD 6750M |
|
512 MB Radeon HD 6770M |
|
512 MB Radeon HD 6770M |
|
1 GB Radeon HD 6970M |
|
256 MB Radeon HD 6750M |
* These models have slower "integrated" graphics that share memory with the system.
** There are two configurations of this model -- MB950LL/A, which has a NVIDIA GeForce 9400M "integrated" graphics processor that shares memory with the system and MC413LL/A, which has an ATI Radeon HD 4670 with 256 MB of dedicated GDDR3 memory.
Officially, Apple provides some models with upgraded video options at the time of purchase, but the video is not intended to be upgraded by a third-party. However, based on disassembly photos and a variety of teardowns, it appears that some models have the video mounted on its own card and it is theoretically upgradable in these systems.
If you have additional information regarding the upgrade potential of the graphics in any of the Intel-based iMac models, particularly if you have experimented with upgrading your own system, please share.
Regardless, if video expansion is a top priority, you would likely be better served by a Mac Pro.
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In the UK, site sponsor Hoxton Macs sells used iMac models with a one-year warranty and free next day delivery throughout the UK. Delivery across Europe also is available starting at just £9.99 for two-day delivery to France and Germany.
In Australia, site sponsor Mac City likewise has a variety of used iMac models sold at low prices and available with a free warranty and fast shipping across Australia.
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