Mac mini
| Apple Mac mini | ||
|---|---|---|
 |
||
| Technical data (overview) | ||
| Processor: | 3.6 GHz quad-core Intel Core i3 , 3.0 GHz 6-core Intel Core i5 ( Turbo Boost up to 4.1 GHz ) or 3.2 GHz 6-core Intel Core i7 ( Turbo Boost up to 4.6 GHz ) | |
| Graphic: | Intel UHD Graphics 630 | |
| Random access memory: | 8 GB RAM, expandable up to 64 GB RAM (2666 MHz DDR4 PC4-21300 SO-DIMM) | |
| Hard disk: | 128 GB SSD or 256 GB SSD ( optionally with 512 GB SSD, 1 TB 2 TB SSD or SSD ) on PCIe base | |
| Connections: | Thunderbolt 3 USB-C (4 ×), USB 3.1 (2 ×), HDMI 2.0, WLAN 802.11ac (compatible with IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n), Bluetooth 5.0 , 10/100 / 1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5 mm headphone jack | |
| Supplied software: | macOS 10.14 Mojave | |
| Dimensions: | 19.7 cm x 19.7 cm x 3.6 cm | |
.jpg)
The Mac mini is a compact computer developed by the Californian computer manufacturer Apple . It was introduced to the public on January 11, 2005 at the Macworld Expo in San Francisco .
In the course of its development, the Mac mini series lost the internal DVD drive, but received an integrated power supply unit (instead of the original external one) and a fan. The devices are characterized by their small size, balanced energy management and low noise level. The Mac mini is manufactured by the Taiwanese contract manufacturer Foxconn .
casing
The original model of the Mac mini from 2005 weighs approx. 1.3 kg and has a housing with the dimensions 16.5 cm × 16.5 cm × 5.1 cm (corresponds to 6.5 in × 6.5 in × 2 in), but an external power supply is required. With the 2010 model, model number A1347 , the Mac mini was significantly redesigned and a unibody housing made of aluminum with the dimensions 19.7 cm × 19.7 cm × 3.5 cm (7.7 in × 7.7 in × 1.4 in), the weight including the power supply built into the case is still around 1.3 kg , depending on the configuration .
Graphics performance
The Mac Mini is not designed for graphics-intensive applications such as professional video editing . The processor GPU shares its memory with the CPU ( shared memory ). It is sufficient for "classic" areas of application such as word processing , the Internet and image processing tasks. The performance of the first models was not always sufficient for smooth viewing of high-definition films (HD). Since the 2018 model, model number A1993 , it is also possible to connect an external GPU (eGPU) via Thunderbolt 3 ( USB-C ) , which also enables graphically more demanding applications on the Mac mini.
Windows
The switch from Apple to Intel processors of the x86 architecture made it possible to install Windows from Microsoft on Macintosh computers without any loss of performance, as was previously inevitable for emulation on the PowerPC architecture (e.g. with Virtual PC for Mac from Connectix, later Microsoft).
Initially, this was made more difficult by the fact that Apple decided to use the BIOS successor Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) alone - but Windows XP , which was current at the time, did not yet support this. The operators of the website www.onmac.net therefore organized a competition in which the first to succeed in installing Windows on a Macintosh computer with x86 architecture (without using virtual environments such as VirtualBox , comparable to Virtual PC under Windows) , was to receive prize money that was raised through donations on the website. The first machine to do this was a Mac mini. On March 16, 2006, a winner was determined and the competition was over.
Shortly thereafter (early April 2006) Apple released a public beta version of Boot Camp , which provides a setup wizard and Windows drivers for the respective Macintosh model and is available for Mac OS X Tiger (only Intel version, from 10.4.4, 2006 ) ran. In order for the Windows bootloader to work, a firmware update was also released for all x86 Macs that contained a BIOS compatibility module ( Compatibility Support Module , CSM). This made it possible on all Intel Macs to use BIOS-based operating systems on Macs. Apple has been actively supporting this since then; in Mac OS X Leopard (10.5, 2007), with the Boot Camp included in it, support for Windows XP Service Pack 2 was part of the Macintosh operating system. Other operating systems can also run with the CSM, such as Linux , which also fully supports Apple EFI and can therefore be started without the CSM. Later versions of Boot Camp, on newer models of the Mac mini, also or only support newer versions of Windows, from Mac mini 2012 only x64 variants from Windows 7 onwards . Since Windows 8 , the Microsoft operating system can also be installed natively on Apple EFI, without Boot Camp and without CSM, on Macs. However, the drivers prepared by Apple and downloaded by Boot Camp's setup wizard still help with the installation of Windows.
current model
_ports.jpg)
The current model of the Mac mini was presented by Apple in October 2018. It is referred to as " Late 2018" and, like its predecessor, has a unibody case made of aluminum , but now in space gray. The model number is now A1993, the identifier Macmini8,1 . The case is still square with a side length of 19.7 cm and 3.6 cm high, but Apple now only uses reused (note: not recycled ) aluminum from its own production. The color is identical to that of the iMac Pro and is darker compared to the previous models. The weight of around 1.3 kg varies depending on the configuration.
In the entry-level model, Apple installs an eighth generation quad-core Core i3 processor (Coffee Lake) with a 3.6 GHz clock frequency from Intel. The more expensive configurations are Intel six-core Core i5 processor with 3.0 GHz (Turbo Boost up to 4.1 GHz) or Core i7 with 3.2 GHz (Turbo Boost up to 4.6 GHz) of the eighth generation installed. 8 GB DDR4 RAM (2666 MHz) is used as standard, which can be expanded to up to 64 GB. The PCIe SSD hard disk storage is firmly soldered to the logic board. The UHD Graphics 630 integrated in the respective Intel chip is used as the graphics processor .
Apple's macOS Mojave is preinstalled as the operating system. The interfaces include a Gigabit Ethernet connection (optionally 10 Gbit Ethernet), two USB 3 connections (up to 5 Gbit / s), an HDMI 2.0 connection (supports multichannel audio output), a 3.5 mm headphone jack (which, unlike the 2014 model, no longer includes a digital optical interface, but the HDMI 2.0 port supports multichannel audio output) and four USB-C / Thunderbolt 3 ports (up to 40 Gbit / s) with support for DisplayPort , USB 3.1 (2nd generation with up to 10 Gbit / s), Thunderbolt 2. DVI and VGA connections are available with appropriate adapters. Data transfer is also possible via the Wi-Fi standard 802.11ac and Bluetooth 5 .
Apple now also uses the self-developed T2 chip for a secure boot process, referred to by Apple as “ Save Boot ”. The password for encryption via FileVault and the data for recognizing the user by Siri (“Hey, Siri!”) Are also stored in the “ Secure Enclave ” on the T2 chip.
On July 9, 2019, the prices of SSD options larger than 256 GB were reduced.
criticism
In tests, the Mac mini 2018 was consistently quiet. The SSD connected with four PCIe 3.0 lanes achieves a transfer rate of 3,000 MB / s when reading, but it cannot be replaced. The Mac mini “Late 2018” receives 6 out of 10 points from iFixit in terms of repairability - the components (processor and SSD) and connections that are soldered onto the logic board are criticized. Problems with the firmware update, with u. a. Even unresponsive T2 security chips, the Mac mini is also affected.
Model history
Model number A1103 - PowerPC G4
| Identifier | publication | Order number (s) | family | macOS (maximum) | Furnishing
standard / optional |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PowerMac 10.1 | January 11, 2005 | M9686LL / A | Mac mini | 10.3.7 ( 10.5.8 ) | PowerPC 7447a with 1.25 GHz, 256 MB PC2700 DDR (333 MHz) RAM (max. 1 GB possible), Radeon 9200 (AGP × 4) with 32 MB VRAM, DVI, 40 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD Ultra ATA / 100 (4200 U −1 ), 8 × DVD / CD-RW "Combo Drive" or 4 × DVD ± RW / CD-RW "SuperDrive" , 2 × USB 2.0, 1 × FireWire 400 , 10/100 LAN , 56.6kv.92 modem, Bluetooth , "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g |
| M9687LL / A | like M9686LL / A, but with 1.42 GHz processor and with 80 GB HDD | ||||
| July 26, 2005 | M9686LL / B | like M9686LL / A, but with 512 MB RAM | |||
| M9687LL / B | like M9687LL / A, but with 512 MB RAM, DVD ± RW / CD-RW "SuperDrive", Bluetooth and "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g, 56.6kv.92 modem (now optional) | ||||
| PowerMac10.2 | September 27, 2005 | M9686LL / B | Late 2005 | 10.4.2 ( 10.5.8 ) | like M9686LL / B, but with 1.33 GHz processor, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g and 56.6kv.92 modem (now optional) ; the hard disk was accelerated
from 4200 to 5400 U −1 and the "SuperDrive" optical drive from 4 × to 8 × Also known as silent upgrade because this model was never officially launched |
| M9687LL / B | like M9687LL / B, but with 1.5 GHz processor, Radeon 9200 (AGP × 4) with 64 MB VRAM, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g and 56.6kv.92 modem (now optional) ; the hard disk was accelerated
from 4200 to 5400 U −1 and the "SuperDrive" optical drive from 4 × to 8 × Also known as silent upgrade because this model was never officially launched |
The first Mac mini has a DVI port, an RJ45 - Fast Ethernet wired internet jack and an optional modem port, two USB -2.0 type A sockets, a FireWire - 400 jack and an analog 3.5mm - Jack - stereo - audio output . For power supply , an external 85- watt - switching power supply used. Although the original Mac mini with G4 processor was based on PowerPC, it was never designed for classic Mac OS , but up to Mac OS X Tiger the Classic environment can be used to run old Mac applications . The last version of Mac OS X for PowerPCs is Leopard (10.5), which also runs on the Mac mini G4.
Mac mini ( PowerMac10,1)
The device presented in 2005 used a PowerPC-G4 processor soldered to the motherboard with a clock frequency of 1.25 or 1.42 GHz in two, later three equipment variants. The starting price of the basic version was relatively low at 489 euros in Germany ( around 600 euros based on today's purchasing power ; in Austria, however, 10 euros more expensive). The larger model with a 1.42 GHz processor cost 100 euros more (corresponds to around 120 euros today), and those who preferred to have a DVD drive installed instead of a CD-RW also initially had to accept an additional 100 euros. Later, the larger models were each delivered with a DVD burner (“SuperDrive”) and an 80 GB hard drive, the smaller with a CD-RW drive (“ComboDrive”) and a 40 GB hard drive. While the smallest model always a 56K V.92 - Modem was installed, there was this the larger mid-2005, only to order. A Bluetooth module and an Airport Extreme card were installed in the larger mini ex works from mid-2005. A Radeon 9200 with 32 MB graphics memory was installed as the graphics card in all G4-minis , in the 1.42 GHz model with 64 MB. The graphics card had a DVI-I output and was not capable of core image .
The Mac mini G4 works with a regulated fan; According to the computer magazine c't, the noise level is 0.3 sone when idling and jumps to 1.6 sone under load. The power consumption is 18 watts in normal operation and a maximum of 30 watts under full load. The operating system supplied was Mac OS X Panther (10.3.7).
There are two USB 2.0 ports , one Firewire 400 and one 10/100 Mbit Ethernet ports, as well as a sound output ("line out"). A DDR-SDRAM module (PC-2700) can be installed; this slot is factory-equipped with a 256 MB module. The main memory can thus be expanded up to 1 GB (as a module). The hard disk is a 2.5 ″ ATA model, the built-in optical drive is an ATA notebook drive with a retractable mechanism. Thus, the technical specifications of the Mac mini are similar to those of the iBook G4.
Late 2005 ( PowerMac10,2)
With the introduction of the Mac OS X Tiger (10.4.2) operating system , the model range was expanded to three variants in mid-2005 and the RAM doubled to 512 MB. During the so-called " Silent Upgrade " in September 2005, the clock frequencies were increased to 1.33 GHz and 1.50 GHz, the price remained unchanged. The memory was now DDR-SDRAM PC3200U.
Model number A1176 - Intel x86
| Identifier | publication | Order number (s) | family | macOS (maximum) | Furnishing
standard / optional |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macmini 1.1 | February 28, 2006 | MA205LL / A | Early 2006 | 10.4.5 ( 10.6.8 ) | Intel Core Solo T1200 with 1.5 GHz, 512 MB PC2-5300 DDR2 (667 MHz) SDRAM (max. 2 GB possible), Intel GMA950 (64 MB shared VRAM), DVI, 60 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA ( 5400 U −1 ), 8 × DVD / CD-RW "Combo Drive", 4 × USB 2.0, 1 × FireWire 400 , 10/100/1000 LAN , Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g, Apple Remote |
| MA206LL / A | like MA205LL / A, but with Intel Core Duo T2300 with 1.66 GHz, 80 GB HDD and 2.4 × double-layer "SuperDrive" | ||||
| September 6, 2006 | Late 2006 | 10.4.7 ( 10.6.8 ) | like previous MA206LL / A model, but only with 8 × DVD / CD-RW "Combo Drive" and only with 60 GB HDD | ||
| MA608LL / A | like the original MA206LL / A model, but with an Intel Core Duo T2400 with 1.83 GHz | ||||
| Macmini 2.1 | August 7, 2007 | MB138LL / A | Mid 2007 | 10.4.10 ( 10.7.5 ) | Intel Core 2 Duo T5600 with 1.83 GHz, 1 GB PC2-5300 DDR2 (667 MHz) SDRAM (max. 4 GB possible), Intel GMA950 (64 MB shared VRAM), DVI, 80 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA (5400 U −1 ), 8 × DVD / CD-RW "Combo Drive", 4 × USB 2.0, 1 × FireWire 400 , 10/100/1000 LAN , Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g, Apple Remote |
| MB139LL / A | like MB138LL / A, but with Intel Core 2 Duo T7200 with 2.0 GHz, 120 GB HDD and 2.4 × double-layer "SuperDrive" |
The first Mac mini with an Intel processor uses the same housing and accordingly also an external switched-mode power supply , but now with 110 watts . In contrast to the original Mac mini with G4 processor, it no longer has a modem connection, instead it has Gigabit Ethernet , the number of USB 2.0 connections has been doubled to four, and it now also has an optical audio output and an infrared receiver . The processors are socketed, which enables the 32-bit core processors in the Mac mini models from 2006 to be replaced by 64-bit-capable Core 2 processors like those installed in the 2007 model. But even with a processor upgrade, the models from 2006 still have a 32-bit EFI , so they are not necessarily suitable for a 64-bit Mac OS X. From Snow Leopard (10.6) the operating system can be started on supported Macs with a 64-bit kernel, up to Lion (10.7) the previous 32-bit kernel is also available in parallel. From Mountain Lion (10.8), 64-bit is finally a requirement. However, Apple does not provide 64-bit drivers for the integrated GMA950 and X3100 graphics chips , so that the 2007 model with 64-bit EFI is not compatible with Mountain Lion and newer either.
Early 2006 ( Macmini1,1)
On 28 February 2006, the Mac mini is the first generation was Intel - x86 processor presented. Externally almost identical to the original design with PowerPC architecture, thanks to the Intel Core architecture now used internally, the technology has been fundamentally changed. The operating system and the application programs had to be transferred from the PowerPC architecture to the IA-32 , which was accomplished in the transition phase with universal apps.
In the first trim level, the computer has a Core Solo T1200 - CPU with 1.5 GHz and a 60 GB 2.5 "SATA hard drive with 5400 min -1 and a CD-RW combo drive.
The second trim level contains the clocked at 1.66 GHz multi-core CPU Core Duo T2300 and a 9.5 mm high 80 GB 2.5 "SATA HDD 5400 min -1 and a DVD-R / DVD-RW -SuperDrive, which can also write two-layer DVDs.
Both models have 512 MB RAM, the two 256 MB DDR2 -667 modules of which are plugged into SO-DIMM slots. Compared to the PowerPC generation of the Mac mini, there are now two instead of just one slot for memory modules, for a total of up to 2 GB of RAM. Due to the chipset graphics (see below), two identical modules should always be installed, since this uses the dual-channel mode of the memory and should result in a speed advantage.
The Ethernet interface is now a 10/100/1000 MBit variant. Compared to the previous model, the Mac mini now offers both analog (“line in / out”) and optical-digital audio inputs and outputs and can therefore also output surround sound . The number of USB ports has been increased to four, and there is also a Firewire 400 interface. The graphics unit of the Mac mini is an Intel GMA950 graphics processor ("chipset graphics ") integrated in the chipset , which is operated in the operating system with " shared RAM", which is fixed at 64 MB under Mac OS X. Windows XP , which can be installed on the Mac mini with Boot Camp , dynamically uses between 16 MB and 224 MB of "shared RAM". The graphics card can output the image signals via DVI-I (the VGA adapter is again included), support for S-Video via an adapter available as an accessory is new .
Another new feature is a built-in infrared receiver , which with the also supplied remote control Apple Remote for Front Row works with. Apple integrated the receiver directly into the housing slot for the optical drive. Both models now come standard with AirPort Extreme (802.11g) and Bluetooth . The modem of the previous Mac mini generation is no longer part of the scope of delivery, but it can be purchased as an external USB device.
Another innovation is that the CPU of the Mac mini is now in a processor socket - Socket 479 - and can thus be upgraded with a compatible, more powerful processor.
The Mac mini "Early 2006" comes with Mac OS X Tiger version 10.4.5 and iLife '06. In addition, the programs Big Bang Board Games and Comic Life as well as various demos are installed. The last officially executable operating system version is Mac OS X Snow Leopard (version 10.6.8).
Late 2006 ( Macmini1,1)
On September 6, 2006, Apple carried out a product improvement in which the Mac mini series was also equipped with new processors. The Core Solo processor was removed from the program. The equipment variant with the previous Core Duo T2300 with 1.66 GHz has been supplemented by a more expensive equipment variant with T2400 with 1.83 GHz. The operating system supplied was now Tiger 10.4.7.
Mid 2007 ( Macmini2,1)
On August 7, 2007, it was announced that the Mac mini would be equipped with newer Core 2 Duo processors , optionally with 1.83 GHz T5600 or 2 GHz T7200 . Apple's own EFI is now implemented in 64-bit, but due to the lack of 64-bit drivers for the integrated graphics processor ("IGP", integrated graphics processor ), only a 32-bit kernel is still supported. Contrary to the official manufacturer's information (maximum 2 GB), these models can accommodate up to 4 GB of RAM.
The Mac OS X 10.4.10 and iLife '08 operating systems are included with the “Mid-2007” Mac-mini.
Model number A1283 - Intel x64
| Identifier | publication | Order number (s) | family | macOS (maximum) | Furnishing
standard / optional |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macmini 3.1 | March 3, 2009 | MB463LL / A | Early 2009 | 10.5.6 ( 10.11.6 ) | Intel Core 2 Duo P7350 with 2.0 GHz or P8400 with 2.26 GHz , 1 GB PC3-8500 DDR3 (1066 MHz) SDRAM (max. 4 GB possible, unofficially 8 GB with EFI firmware update 1.2), Nvidia GeForce 9400M (128-256 MB shared VRAM), Mini-DVI and Mini-DisplayPort , 120 GB , 250 GB or 320 GB 2.5 ″ HDD SATA II (5400 U −1 ), 8 × double-layer "Super Drive" , 5 × USB 2.0, 1 × FireWire 800 , 10/100/1000 LAN , Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g / n |
| MB464LL / A | like MB463LL / A, but with 2 GB PC3-8500 DDR3 (1066 MHz) SDRAM (max. 4 GB possible, unofficially 8 GB with EFI firmware update 1.2) and 320 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA II (5400 U −1 ) | ||||
| October 20, 2009 | MC238LL / A | Late 2009 | 10.6 ( 10.11.6 ) | Intel Core 2 Duo P7750 with 2.26 GHz or P8700 with 2.53 GHz , 2 GB PC3-8500 DDR3 (1066 MHz) SDRAM (max. 4 GB possible, unofficially 8 GB), Nvidia GeForce 9400M (256 MB shared VRAM) , Mini-DVI and Mini-DisplayPort , 160 GB , 320 GB or 500 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA II , 8 × double-layer "Super Drive", 5 × USB 2.0, 1 × FireWire 800 , 10/100 / 1000-LAN , Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g / n | |
| MC239LL / A | like MC238LL / A, but with Intel Core 2 Duo P8700 with 2.53 GHz or P8800 with 2.66 GHz , 4 GB PC3-8500 DDR3 (1066 MHz) SDRAM (unofficially 8 GB possible), 320 GB or 500 GB 2, 5 ″ HDD SATA II | ||||
| MC408LL / A | 10.6.1 Server ( 10.11.6 ) | like MC239LL / A, but without optical drive, instead 2 × 500 GB 2.5 ″ HDD SATA II ; Mac OS X Snow Leopard Server “ unlimited user ” preinstalled |
In contrast to the previous model number A1176, the processors of the models with the number A1283 are now soldered to the logic board. The number of USB 2.0 ports was increased to five and the FireWire 400 was replaced by a FireWire 800 port. The DVI socket is now designed as a mini-DVI , and a mini-DisplayPort connection has been added. The Mac mini model numbers A1283 are fully 64-bit capable for Mac OS X.
Early 2009 ( Macmini3,1)
On March 3, 2009, Apple presented a revised version of the Mac mini, equipped with Core 2 Duo processors, optionally with 2.0 or 2.26 GHz. In direct comparison with the predecessor, a more powerful integrated graphics processor Nvidia Geforce 9400M was installed as well as a Mini-DisplayPort as a supplement to the existing Mini-DVI connection. The Mac mini was still delivered unchanged with 1 GB of memory, but can be expanded to up to 4 GB or to 8 GB after installing the “EFI Firmware Update 1.2”. The wireless network is compliant with the 802.11n draft standard and the Mini now has five USB ports. Instead of FireWire-400 , the version with up to 800 Mbit / s is now installed. The previously included Apple Remote (infrared remote control) is no longer included.
The Mac OS X Leopard operating system is included in version 10.5.6. Thanks to full 64-bit capability, this Mac mini is now also fully compatible with Mac OS X Lion (10.7) to El Capitan (10.11).
Late 2009 ( Macmini3,1)
The 2009 Mac mini redesign was unveiled at the same time as the Mac mini Server, iMac, and MacBook on October 20, 2009. Two variants were offered as standard at a price of 549 euros (based on today's purchasing power approx. 630 euros) and 749 euros (today ≈850 euros), the cheapest version being an Intel Core 2 Duo processor P7550 with a clock frequency of 2.26 GHz , 2 GB DDR3 RAM and a 160 GB hard drive, which uses an Intel Core 2 Duo processor P8700 with 2.53 GHz clock frequency, 4 GB DDR3 RAM and a 320 GB hard drive. A Core 2 Duo processor P8800 with a clock frequency of 2.66 GHz was also available as a BTO option as an extra charge . Like their predecessors, the revised "Spät-2009" models are equipped with SuperDrive, built-in mono loudspeakers, AirPort and the Nvidia Geforce 9400M graphics processor with Mini-DVI and Mini-DisplayPort . Mac OS X Snow Leopard and iLife are now included in the scope of delivery .
Late 2009 Server ( Macmini3,1)
The Mac mini Server was first introduced on October 20, 2009. In terms of hardware, it hardly differs from the conventional Mac mini of the same series with 2.53 GHz (Intel Core 2 Duo P8700), with the exception that it contains a second hard drive instead of an optical drive; both disks are equipped with 5400 U -1 rotating 2.5 inch SATA II drives 500 GB storage capacity . On the software side, Mac OS X Server 10.6.1 is included with a license for an unlimited number of clients.
Model number A1347 - Unibody aluminum case
| Identifier | publication | Order number (s) | family | macOS (maximum) | Furnishing
standard / optional |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macmini 4.1 | June 15, 2010 | MC270LL / A | Mid 2010 | 10.6.4 ( 10.13.6 ) | Intel Core 2 Duo P8600 with 2.4 GHz or P8800 with 2.66 GHz , 2 GB PC3-8500 DDR3 (1066 MHz) SDRAM (max. 8 GB possible, unofficially 16 GB), Nvidia GeForce 320M (256 MB shared VRAM) , HDMI and Mini-DisplayPort , 320 GB or 500 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA II (5400 U -1 ), 8 × double-layer "Super Drive", 4 × USB 2.0, 1 × FireWire 800 , 10/100 / 1000-LAN , Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g / n |
| MC438LL / A | like MC270LL / A with Intel Core 2 Duo P8800 with 2.66 GHz, but with 4 GB PC3-8500 DDR3 (1066 MHz) SDRAM (max. 8 GB possible, unofficially 16 GB), but without optical drive, instead 2 × 500 GB 2.5 ″ HDD SATA II (5400 U -1 ); Snow Leopard Server “ unlimited user ” preinstalled | ||||
| Macmini 5.1 | July 20, 2011 | MC815LL / A | Mid 2011 | 10.7 ( 10.13.6 ) | Intel Core i5-2415M with 2.3 GHz, 2 GB PC3-10600 DDR3 (1333 MHz) SDRAM (max. 8 GB possible, unofficial 16 GB), Intel HD Graphics 3000 Integrated graphics processor with HDMI and Thunderbolt port (backwards compatible with Mini-DisplayPort ), 500 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA 6G / s (5400 U -1 ) or 750 GB (7200 U -1 ) , SD card slot ( SDXC ), 4 × USB 2.0, 1 × FireWire 800 , 10/100/1000 LAN , Bluetooth 4.0, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11a / b / g / n |
| Macmini 5.2 | MC816LL / A | like MC815LL / A, but with Intel Core i5-2520M with 2.5 GHz or Intel Core i7-2620M with 2.7 GHz , 4 GB PC3-10600 DDR3 (1333 MHz) SDRAM (max. 8 GB possible, unofficially 16 GB ), Radeon HD 6630M with dedicated 256 MB GDDR5 memory, additional optional 256 GB SATA-6G / s - SSD or 750 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA 6G / s (7200 U −1 ) + 256 GB SATA-6G / s - SSD | |||
| Macmini5.3 | MC936LL / A | 10.7 Server ( 10.13.6 ) | like MC815LL / A, but with Intel Core i7-2635QM with 2.0 GHz, 4 GB PC3-10600 DDR3 (1333 MHz) SDRAM (max. 8 GB possible, unofficially 16 GB), 2 × 500 GB 2.5 ″ - HDD SATA 6G / s (7200 U -1 ), optional 2 × 750 GB (7200 U −1 ), 1 × or 2 × 256 GB SATA-6G / s - SSD as well as 750 GB (7200 U −1 ) + 256 GB SATA-6G / s - SSD ; Lion server pre-installed | ||
| Macmini 6.1 | October 23, 2012 | MD387LL / A | Late 2012 | 10.8.1 | Intel Core i5-3210M with 2.5 GHz, 4 GB PC3-12800 DDR3 (1600 MHz) SDRAM (max. 16 GB possible), Intel HD Graphics 4000 Integrated graphics processor with HDMI and Thunderbolt port (backwards compatible with Mini-DisplayPort ) , 500 GB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA 6G / s (5400 U -1 ), SD card slot ( SDXC ), 4 × USB 3.0, 1 × FireWire 800 , 10/100/1000 LAN , Bluetooth 4.0, "Airport Extreme “WLAN 802.11a / b / g / n |
| Macmini 6.2 | MD388LL / A | like MD387LL / A, but with Intel Core i7-3615QM with 2.3 GHz 3720QM or Intel Core i7-3720QM with 2.3 GHz , 1 TB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA 6G / s (5400 U -1 ) or 256 GB 2.5 ″ -SSD SATA-6G / s - SSD or 1 TB 2.5 ″ - Fusion-Drive (internal 128 GB Flash ) | |||
| MD389LL / A | 10.8.2 Server | like MD388LL / A, but with 2 × 1 TB 2.5 ″ -HDD SATA 6G / s (5400 U -1 ), optionally instead 1 × or 2 × 256 GB 2.5 ″ -SSD SATA-6G / s - SSD ; Mountain Lion Server pre-installed | |||
| Macmini 7.1 | October 16, 2014 | MGEM2LL / A | Late 2014 | 10.10 | Intel Core i5-4260U with 1.4 GHz, 4 GB , 8 GB or 16 GB LPDDR3 (1600 MHz) SDRAM (permanently soldered, not upgradeable), Intel HD Graphics 5000 integrated graphics processor with HDMI and 2 × Thunderbolt 2 ports (backwards compatible to Mini-DisplayPort ), 500 GB 2.5 ″ HDD SATA 6G / s (5400 U -1 ) or 1 TB 2.5 ″ Fusion-Drive (combined 1 TB 2.5 ″ SATA 6G / s HDD with 256 GB PCIe SSD, proprietary connection) , SD card slot ( SDXC ), 4 × USB 3.0, 10/100/1000 LAN , Bluetooth 4.0, "Airport Extreme" WLAN 802.11ac (compatible with 802.11a / b / g / n) |
| MGEN2LL / A | like MGEM2LL / A, but with Intel Core i5-4278U with 2.6 GHz or Intel Core i7-4578U with 3.0 GHz , 8 GB or 16 GB LPDDR3 (1600 MHz) SDRAM (fixed soldered, not upgradeable), Intel Iris 5100 Integrated graphics processor and 1 TB 2.5 ″ HDD SATA 6G / s (5400 U -1 ) or 256 GB SSD or 1 TB 2.5 ″ Fusion-Drive (combined 1 TB 2.5 ″ SATA 6G / s HDD with 256 GB PCIe SSD, proprietary connection) . | ||||
| MGEQ2LL / A | like MGEN2LL / A, but with Intel Core i5-4308U with 2.8 GHz or, as with model MGEN2LL / A as BTO , Intel Core i7-4578U with 3.0 GHz and 1 TB 2.5 ″ - Fusion-Drive (combines 1 TB 2.5 ″ SATA 6G / s HDD with 256 GB PCIe SSD, proprietary connection) or 256 GB or 512 GB SSD, from January 13, 2016 also 2 TB Fusion-Drive . |
With this model series, the housing has been fundamentally revised. The switched-mode power supply is now built into the new unibody housing and designed for 85 watts .
In the first unibody model from 2010, the connections remained almost unchanged compared to the previous model, but the DVI connection was replaced by an HDMI socket and the number of USB 2.0 sockets (type A) has been reduced by one; an SD card slot that is compatible with SDXC cards was added. With the 2011 model, the mini display port connector was replaced by a Thunderbolt connector, which is, however, backwards compatible. From the 2012 model onwards, the four USB sockets are Type-A USB 3.0 , but without the blue marking that is usual on the PC. In the 2014 model, the ⚡ connection was updated to Thunderbolt 2 and the number of ⚡ sockets was doubled to two, although FireWire was completely deleted at the same time .
As with the server model from 2009, the Mac mini Server 2010 does not include an optical drive - this is completely absent from the 2011 model. The desktop Mac mini 2010 is the only one with an optical drive in the redesigned unibody case.
Apart from the x86 processor from Intel soldered onto the logic board, the 2.5 ″ SATA hard disks or SSDs and the DIMMs (RAM) were exchangeable and therefore upgradeable up to the 2012 model . In the 2014 model, however, the RAM is permanently soldered to the logic board and the PCIe SSD is based on M.2 , but proprietary from Apple and therefore not compatible with the M.2 standard.
Mid 2010 ( Macmini4,1)
On June 15, 2010, Apple released the visually revised Mac mini generation with a unibody housing . This now measures 19.7 × 19.7 cm (7.7 inches ) in width and depth, 3.6 cm (1.4 inches) in height - compared to the previous case, it is significantly flatter with a larger footprint . A permanently soldered Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 2.4 GHz clock frequency (P8600), two DIMM memory banks with 2 GB DDR3 memory (maximum 16 GB possible) and a 320 GB SATA are now on the logic board -Hard disk; A P8800 with a clock frequency of 2.66 GHz could be optionally configured when ordering. Furthermore, according to Apple, the graphics performance has doubled thanks to the Nvidia GeForce 320M graphics processor. In contrast to its predecessor, the new Mac mini has an integrated power supply and only four USB ports, but one HDMI port. An audio signal can now also be output via the Mini-DisplayPort. The operating system supplied is Mac OS X Snow Leopard version 10.6.4. The first unibody Mac mini cost 709 euros in Germany (price reduction on November 2, 2010, previously 809 euros; based on today's purchasing power approx. 800 or before 910 euros), in Austria 699 euros (today ≈830 euros) and in the Switzerland 849 francs (then approx. 660 euros, today ≈740 euros).
Mid 2010 Server ( Macmini4,1)
The Mac mini server of the otherwise structurally identical basic model, also released on June 15, 2010, lacks the optical drive, just like the previous model. Instead, two 500 GB hard drives are installed, which combined results in a storage capacity of 1 TB. Apple specified the Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 2.66 GHz and 4 GB DDR3 RAM as the equipment variant, only the hard disks were configurable via build-to-order . The server variant uses the same graphics card as the desktop model, an Nvidia GeForce 320M. The operating system includes Mac OS X Server 10.6.4 with a license for an unlimited number of clients. The Mac mini server "Mid 2010" has cost 999 euros in Germany since the price cut on November 2, 2010 (previously 1,149 euros; based on current purchasing power approx. 1,130 euros or before 1,300 euros), in Austria it also cost 999 euros (today ≈1,180 euros) and in Switzerland 1,249 francs (then approx. 970 euros, today ≈1,090 euros).
Mid 2011 ( Macmini5,1and Macmini5,2)
With the release of Mac OS X Lion , the Mac mini was redesigned in July 2011. Apple does without an optical drive and equips the Mac mini with Intel's Core i5 (2.3 or 2.5 GHz dual core) or i7 processors (2.7 GHz dual core). For the graphics card, customers can choose between the Intel HD Graphics 3000 ( Macmini5,1) and an AMD Radeon HD 6630M ( Macmini5,2). Also included is a Thunderbolt port, which has also been available on the iMac , MacBook Pro and MacBook Air since mid-2011.
Originally this model should have been delivered with Mac OS X Snow Leopard (10.6.7 or 10.6.8), since these versions of the operating system contain drivers specifically for the Mac mini "Mid 2011". With the recovery DVD of the MacBook "Early 2011", which has very similar hardware, it is even possible Macmini5,2to install Snow Leopard on the Mac mini , as it contains the drivers required for the Radeon graphics card that are included in the regular Versions of Mac OS X 10.6.7 or later are missing. The installation is possible, but not trivial. Snow Leopard is the last version of the Rosetta operating system that can run PowerPC-based Mac OS X programs.
Mid 2011 Server ( Macmini5,3)
The Mac mini Server 2011 is identical to the basic model Macmini5,1, except for the Core i7 quad-core processor with a clock rate of 2.0 GHz and the pre-installed Lion Server operating system . Configuration options included larger hard drives ( 2 × 750 GB instead of 2 × 500 GB), SSDs ( 2 × 256 GB), or a combination of both.
Late 2012 ( Macmini6,1and Macmini6,2)
In the generation presented in October 2012, Intel's Core i5 (2.5 GHz dual-core Macmini6,1) or i7 processors (2.3 or 2.6 GHz quad-core Macmini6,2) were installed, and for the first time quad-core CPUs. The graphics chip is now the integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 in all models ; a dedicated graphics chip was no longer available. The four USB ports now support the faster USB 3.0. All model variants have at least 4 GB DDR3 SDRAM clocked at 1600 MHz. The hard drive capacity increased to a maximum of 1 TB.
All model variants in Germany were more expensive than the models from 2011 by 30 euros.
Late 2012 Server ( Macmini6,2)
At the end of 2012 a new Mac Mini Server was introduced with the Mac Mini 2012. It is identical to the more powerful desktop model Macmini6,2, i.e. it has an Intel Core i7 quad-core CPU with 2.3 or 2.6 GHz. For the main memory, you could choose between 4, 8 or 16 GB DDR3 with 1600 MHz. Two 1 TB hard drives, one 256 GB SSD or two 256 GB SSDs were available. The factory was OS X Mountain Lion Server installed.
The Mac mini "late 2012 server" was the fourth and so far last Mac mini server, because with the introduction of the successor model Late 2014 , the server edition of the Mac mini was discontinued.
Late 2014 ( Macmini7,1)
In October 2014, Apple introduced the final makeover of the original unibody model without an optical drive.
In the standard version, Apple installed a 1.4 GHz (with Turbo Boost up to 2.7 GHz) Intel Core i5 dual-core processor of the fourth generation (Haswell). Upon request, an i5 dual-core processor with 2.6 GHz or 2.8 GHz (Turbo Boost up to 3.1 GHz or 3.3 GHz) or a Core i7 dual-core processor could be ordered 3.0 GHz (Turbo Boost up to 3.5 GHz). As standard, 4 GB of 1600 MHz LPDDR3 memory was preconfigured, which could be expanded up to 16 GB when ordered. However, since the main memory is now permanently soldered to the logic board, a subsequent upgrade by the user is no longer possible. An " Intel HD Graphics 5000 " is used as the graphics chip , optionally "Intel Iris Graphics". In addition, from time to time was not 2 TB - Fusion Drive hard disk longer offered variant. There are two Thunderbolt 2 ports, four USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, an SDXC memory card slot, a Gigabit Ethernet port and an audio input and output. Input and output also offer optical, digital data transmission according to the AC ‑ 3 standard, with which the Mac mini 2014 can become part of a high-quality playback chain for audio signals or music if it is connected to an external DAC via an optical digital cable. Bluetooth 4.0 , an IR receiver and Wi-Fi 802.11ac (compatible with IEEE 802.11a / g / b / n) are available for wireless communication with the computer . It came with the Mac mini and a power cord.
With reference to the ranking of devices with the Energy Star label , Apple stated that the Mac mini (2014, note) is the “most energy-efficient desktop computer in the world”.
The Apple desktop operating system OS X Yosemite was preinstalled , the iWork and iLife suites were available for free download from the Mac App Store .
Model number A1993 - Space gray unibody
| Identifier | publication | Order number (s) | family | macOS (maximum) | Furnishing
standard / optional |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macmini8.1 | October 30, 2018 | MRTR2LL / A | Late 2018 | 10.14.1 | Intel Core i3-8100 with 3.6 GHz, 8 GB PC4-21300 DDR4 (2666 MHz) SDRAM (max. 64 GB possible), Intel UHD Graphics 630 Integrated graphics processor (1.5 GB shared VRAM) with HDMI - and 2 × Thunderbolt-3 ports, 128 GB or 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB PCIe SSD (soldered fixed, non-replaceable), 3,5mm- jack , 2 x USB 3.1 plus 2 x Thunderbolt 3 - USB -C ports (4 in total), 10/100/1000 LAN or Nbase-T Ethernet , Bluetooth 5.0, WLAN 802.11ac (compatible with 802.11a / b / g / n) |
| MRTT2LL / A | like MRTR2LL / A, but with Core i5 processor with 3.0 GHz or Core i7 processor with 3.2 GHz , 256 GB or 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB PCIe-SSD (soldered, not exchangeable) |
Late 2018 ( Macmini8,1)
See section “Current Model” .
Web links
- Mac mini product page , Apple Germany
- All articles on: Mac mini on Heise online
- Model overview on everymac.com (English)
- Information on the Mac mini "upgrade" at heise.de (February 28, 2006)
- Information on the Mac mini "upgrade" at macwelt.de (March 3, 2009)
- Information on the Mac mini "upgrade" at computerbase.de (October 20, 2009)
Individual evidence
- ↑ Install Windows 7 on the Mac using Boot Camp. Apple, Inc., September 24, 2018, accessed April 15, 2019 (The Mac mini models are listed in the section “Available versions of Windows support software by Mac model”; the Mac mini 2010 supports 64-bit for the first time -Version of Windows 7, the Mac mini 2012 only the 64-bit version.).
- ↑ lion10: The ultimate way to install Windows 8.x in (U) EFI mode on Apple systems. ( Internet forum ) In: Apple Support Communities. Apple, Inc., April 16, 2014, accessed April 15, 2019 .
- ↑ a b c Johannes Schuster: Mac mini 2018: The 10 most important test results. In: Heise online . November 14, 2018 . Retrieved January 1, 2019.
- ↑ Mac mini specifications. Accessed October 31, 2018 (German).
- ↑ Mac mini specifications. Retrieved March 25, 2020 (Austrian German).
- ↑ Benjamin Mayo: Apple significantly lower Mac SSD upgrade pricing, 1 TB MacBook Air now available. In: 9to5Mac. July 9, 2019, Retrieved July 9, 2019 (American English).
- ↑ Mac mini Late 2018 Teardown. iFixit , November 9, 2018, accessed January 1, 2019 .
- ↑ Ben Schwan: Macs with a T2 chip: only a second computer can help with firmware errors. In: Heise online . April 15, 2020 . Retrieved June 15, 2020.
- ↑ Marvin Czechne: Mac mini G4 1.42 GHz. Maclife, April 2, 2005, accessed April 23, 2020 .
- ↑ Is it possible to upgrade the processor in the Intel Mac mini models? ( FAQ ) In: EveryMac.com. Kyle Media LLC, November 5, 2009, accessed January 1, 2019 .
- ↑ How can I upgrade or "hack" an incompatible Intel Mac to run OS X 10.8 "Mountain Lion"? Is it even possible? ( Q&A ) In: EveryMac.com. Kyle Media LLC, September 9, 2012, accessed January 1, 2019 .
- ↑ About Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapters, Apple
- ↑ Netzwelt.de: New Mac Mini: Faster processors and Thunderbolt , accessed on July 20, 2011.
- ↑ Apple redesigns the smallest Mac: Mac Mini 2012 with new processors , Macwelt
- ↑ Mac minis with new graphics chips and USB 3.0 , Mac & i, Heise
- ↑ Robert Tusch: Mac Mini 2014 receives option for 2 TB Fusion Drive. In: apfelpage.de. January 14, 2015, accessed January 14, 2015 .
- ↑ Mac mini: So small, so gigantic . Without a date. Retrieved February 10, 2014.