Eight-core computers
have eight memory slots,
four per processor. You
can install 1 GB, 2 GB, or 4
GB DIMMs for a total of up
to 32 GB of memory.
Each processor’s memory
controller has three
memory channels. DIMM
slots 1, 2, 5, and 6 have
their own channels; slots
3 and 4 share a channel
and slots 7 and 8 share a
channel.
For optimal memory
bandwidth, all six memory
channels should be used,
and memory should be
balanced across the six
channels.
If you haveFill in these slots
Two DIMMs1 and 2
Three DIMMs1, 2, and 3
Four DIMMs1, 2, and 5, 6
Six DIMMs1, 2, 3 and 5, 6, 7
Eight DIMMs1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, 6, 7, 8
Note: Populating slot 4 or
8 slightly drops maximum
memory bandwidth,
but depending on the
applications used, overall
system performance may
benet from the larger
amount of memory.
Memory Slot Utility
If you install dierent-size DIMMs in your computer, follow the order in the tables above. If the
DIMM conguration you install doesn’t provide optimized performance, the Memory Slot Utility
will appear on screen and recommend an improved conguration. To use the Memory Slot
Utility again, go to /System/Library/Core Services.
Note: If a black sticker
covers barcode label on
DIMM you are replacing,
remove sticker before
returning DIMM to Apple.
(Service DIMMs do not
include black sticker.)
latch is up before you
replace panel. If latch
is down, panel will
not seat correctly.
Push latch down 2
to close and secure
access panel.
Warning: Never turn
on computer unless
all its internal and
external parts are in
place and it is closed.
Operating computer
when open or missing
parts can cause
damage or injury.
3
Verify DIMM
installation using
“Memory Diagnostic
LEDs” information on
next page.
core and 8-core processor
boards include a set of
diagnostic memory LEDs.
After re-installing or
replacing a DIMM, always
use the LEDs to verify the
DIMM is correctly seated.
To verify your DIMM
installation, do this:
Start up the 1
computer.
Remove the side 2
access panel.
Check the bank of 3
memory LEDs.
Quad-Core LEDs
8-Core LEDs
An illuminated, red
LED indicates its
associated DIMM may
be poorly seated or
failed.
If you see a red 4
LED, refer to “How
to Troubleshoot
Memory LEDs” on the
next page.
Note: Apple System
Proler does not report
unseated or failed
memory. You must use the
memory LEDs to locate
DIMM issues.
Follow this procedure when troubleshooting each DIMM identied by a red LED:
Remove and reseat DIMM.1.
Restart computer. If associated LED is no longer illuminated, issue is resolved. 2.
If associated LED remains illuminated, replace DIMM with new DIMM.3.
Restart computer and verify LED is no longer illuminated.4.
There is one exception. If two LEDs illuminate at the same time for the 3 DIMM and 4 DIMM
slots or for the 7 DIMM and 8 DIMM slots, check both DIMMs using this process:
CheckResultAction
Remove both DIMMs identied by 1.
illuminated LEDs. Set DIMM 4 (or
YesReplace DIMM 3 (or DIMM 7) with
new DIMM. Go to step 2.
DIMM 8) aside, and reseat DIMM 3 (or
DIMM 7). Restart computer. Is DIMM 3
(or DIMM 7) LED illuminated?
Reinstall DIMM 4 (or DIMM 8). Restart 2.
computer. Is one or both LEDs
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