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Intel Mac mini Q&A - Updated November 4, 2009
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What type of video system is provided by the Intel Mac mini models?
All Intel-based Mac mini models have "integrated graphics".
Specifically, models prior to the "Early 2009" series (introduced March 3, 2009), are powered by an "Intel GMA950 graphics processor with 64 MB of DDR2 SDRAM shared with main memory". For these systems, Apple reports that "minimum graphics memory usage is 80 MB" and "memory available to Mac OS X may vary depending on graphics needs."
The "Early 2009" models are powered by a NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor with either 128 MB or 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with the system. By default, the low-end configuration (MB463LL/A) has 128 MB of memory shared with system memory and the high-end configuration (MB464LL/A) has 256 MB of memory shared with system memory. However, installing another 1 MB memory module in the low-end configuration will automatically increase the shared VRAM to 256 MB.
Like the "Early 2009" models, the "Late 2009" models (introduced October 20, 2009) also are powered by a NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor but all have 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with the system by default.
What does "integrated graphics" mean?
In basic terms, "integrated graphics" is used to describe a video system that is "integrated" with another chip on the motherboard. This compares to "dedicated graphics" where the video system is provided by a chip separate from others on the motherboard or on a separate video card.
Integrated graphics cannot be upgraded and typically share system RAM.
Also see: Why are "integrated graphics" in the Intel Mac mini considered to be inferior?
Is the video on the Intel Mac mini upgradable?
No. The "integrated graphics" processors used by the Intel Mac mini models cannot be upgraded. However, future firmware revisions theoretically might make it possible for the integrated graphics system to "borrow" additional RAM from the system and allocate it as "video memory".
What is the largest display the Intel Mac mini will support? Does it support dual displays?
Intel Mac mini systems released prior to the "Early 2009" line on March 3, 2009 can support digital resolutions "up to 1920x1200" using DVI video output. This includes a single Apple 20" Cinema Display (Al) or Apple 23" Cinema Display (Al), or a third-party display of similar or smaller size. Apple notes that the system can support "coherent digital displays up to 154 MHz [and] noncoherent digital displays up to 135 MHz". Using a DVI-to-VGA adapter, these Intel Mac mini models can support any VGA display at a resolution up to 1920x1080.
The "Early 2009" and "Late 2009" Intel Mac mini configurations simultaneously support 1920x1200 on a DVI or VGA display using the Mini-DVI port and 2560x1600 on a dual-link DVI display using the Mini DisplayPort (with an optional Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter). The "Early 2009" Mac mini are the first of the Mac mini models to support dual displays.
If a VGA display is dim when connected, please refer to "Reduced Brightness with Some VGA Displays and Mac mini" from the Apple Support Site to begin troubleshooting.
Can I place a monitor on top of the Intel Mac mini?
No. Placing a monitor on top of the Intel Mac mini can restrict airflow and reduce the signal strength of AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth. If the monitor is a heavy VGA display, it might also damage the case. For information on appropriate positioning, please refer to "How to Position Your Mac mini" from the Apple Support Site.
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