If you are the owner of an older 2009 Mac Pro and have been thinking of upgrading to benefit from an increase in speed and power, you might be interested to know a new firmware has been released that will transform your tired old 2009 Mac Pro into a 12-Core beast.
The newly created firmware by member ‘MacEFIRom’ of the forums on , will convert your 2009 Mac Pro into a 2010 Mac Pro, complete with support for Westmere CPUs, faster RAM, and audio output via Mini DisplayPorts.
Understanding the Firmware Upgrade
The firmware exploits the way Apple uses to install EFI firmware updates, now allowing older 2009 Mac Pros to accept firmware updates intended for the 2010 Mac Pros. This clever workaround essentially tricks the 2009 Mac Pro into thinking it is a 2010 model, thereby unlocking new hardware capabilities and performance enhancements.
The new firmware enables users to then install 32nm Westmere Xeons, including six-core variants used in the high-end 2010 Mac Pro, into their older machine. Single-socket machines can use W-series CPUs, while dual-socket machines will need dual-QPI enabled chips including the E5600 and X5600-series chips. (A source who applied the firmware update told Ars that Westmere CPUs are identified with “B1” stepping in the identification code.)
Benefits of the Upgrade
Upgrading your 2009 Mac Pro with this firmware can significantly enhance its performance. The Westmere CPUs offer improved processing power and efficiency, which can be particularly beneficial for tasks that require heavy computational power such as video editing, 3D rendering, and software development. Additionally, the support for faster RAM can help in speeding up data access times, further boosting the overall performance of your machine.
Moreover, the ability to output audio via Mini DisplayPorts adds a layer of convenience for users who utilize their Mac Pro for multimedia purposes. This feature allows for a cleaner setup with fewer cables, as both video and audio can be transmitted through a single connection.
It’s also worth noting that this upgrade can extend the lifespan of your 2009 Mac Pro, making it a more viable option for modern applications and software that demand higher performance. Instead of investing in a new machine, this firmware update provides a cost-effective solution to keep your existing hardware relevant and powerful.
However, it’s important to proceed with caution. Firmware updates can be risky, and there’s always a chance that something could go wrong during the installation process. It’s recommended to back up all important data before attempting the upgrade and to follow the instructions carefully. If you’re not comfortable performing the update yourself, seeking assistance from a professional might be a wise choice.
More information about the new firmware can be found on the Ars Technica website and also on the forums at
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