Mac Video/TV/DVD Related Articles
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Graphics Cards and Drivers | Displays/Monitor Related | Apple TV
DVD Player/Video Utilities | (older model) Card Coolers Graphics Card/Video Related (later first) Unigine Benchmarks with macOS 10.12.6 (16G1212) & Nvidia GTX-1050 Ti (Jan 26, 2018) Unigine Heaven and Valley benchmark scores with Nvidia web driver for macOS 10.12.6 build 16G1212 used with an Nvidia GTX-1050 Ti card in a Hackintosh. CUDA 387.128 Update
(for macOS 10.13.x) (Jan. 25, 2018) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 387.128 for macOS. Page notes "CUDA driver update to support CUDA Toolkit 9.1, macOS 10.13.3 and NVIDIA display driver 378.10.10.10.25.156". (Here's a direct download link for CUDA 387.128.) Despite the download page listing only macOS 10.13.x support, it may work with 10.12.6 - use prefs check for CUDA update. (IIRC previous version did.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS Sierra 10.12.6
build 16G1212 (Jan. 25, 2018) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.05.05.25f06 for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G1212. (The build number after installing Security Update 2018-001 Sierra.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.11.6
Build 15G19009 (Jan. 25, 2018) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 346.03.15f12 for OS X 10.11.6 build 15G19009. (The build number after installing Security Update 2018-001 El Capitan.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link.
(The driver page mentions a very old CUDA v7.5.30. If you already have CUDA installed, check the prefs for an update. (The last CUDA version that listed OS X 10.11.x support on the download page was CUDA 8.0.90, but the D/L page listing isn't always accurate.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.3
Build 17D47 (Jan 24, 2018) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 387.10.10.10.25.156 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.3 build 17D47. (If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct D/L link.) See above for new CUDA update for macOS 10.13.x. Radeon R9 280X 3GB
in Mac Pros
(2008 & 2010/12) (Jan 2018) CineBench R15 and GeekBench benchmark scores of (flashed) AMD Radeon R9 280X 3GB card in a Mac Pro 5,1 (dual 3.46GHz) running macOS 10.12.6, using an LG 32UD59-B 4K 32in Display. Also used in his 2008 Mac Pro (3,1) running 10.12.6 now. (He ordered a Radeon RX 580 8GB for the Mac Pro 5,1.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2
Build 17C205 (Jan 10, 2018) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.25.104 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2 build 17C205. The build after installing macOS 10.13.2 Supplemental Update released January 8th, 2018. (If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct D/L link.) External AMD Graphics on macOS High Sierra (PDF) (Dec 2017) Sonnet PDF has info on compatibility with Thunderbolt "eGPU" setup and lists Mac models (with Thunderbolt ports) tested for compatibility as well as a list of AMD Radeon cards plug-and-play compatible with macOS High Sierra 10.13.2. (As of post date, includes Radeon RX 470, 480, 570, 580, Vega 56 and Vega 64. Power Requirements vary - their listing includes compatibility info for their eGPU Breakaway Puck/Breakaway Box models.) The PDF also includes setup and troubleshooting guide.
(FYI - Their FAQ notes macOS 10.13.2 required for Vega or WX9100 beta support. HDMI output is not yet supported on Vega. Hot unplug without a monitor attached currently results in a kernel panic.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2
Build 17C89 (Dec 9, 2017) If you have macOS 10.13.2 build 17C89 (from Combo Update), here's a direct download of driver v378.10.10.10.25.103. (As of Dec. 10th, no download page for it yet.) To check your macOS build number, select Apple menu -> "About this Mac", and click on the macOS version number. Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2
Build 17C88 (Dec 7, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.25.102 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2 build 17C88. (first non-beta 10.13.2.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a v378.10.10.10.25.102 D/L link.
(Update: If you have build 17C89 (10.13.2 Combo Update), see above for driver v378.10.10.10.25.103.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS Sierra 10.12.6
build 16G1114 (Dec. 7, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.05.05.25f04 for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G1114. (The build number after installing Security Update 2017-002 Sierra.) Here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.11.6
Build 15G18013 (Dec. 7, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 346.03.15f11 for OS X 10.11.6 build 15G18013. (The build number after installing Security Update 2017-005 El Capitan.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link.
(The driver page mentions a very old CUDA v7.5.30. If you already have CUDA installed, check the prefs for an update. (The last CUDA version that listed OS X 10.11.x support on the download page was CUDA 8.0.90, but the D/L page listing isn't always accurate.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.10.10.10.20.109
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1
Build 17B1003 (Dec 1, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.20.109 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1 build 17B1003. (Apple revised Security Update 2017-001 for macOS 10.13.1 (again) which changes the build number from 17B1002 to 17B1003.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a v378.10.10.10.20.109 D/L link for use with Build 17B1003. Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.10.10.10.20.108
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1
Build 17B1002 (Nov 30, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.20.108 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1 build 17B1002, (An early build number after installing Security Update 2017-001 High Sierra.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.11.6
Build 15G17023 (Nov 3, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 346.03.15f10 for OS X 10.11.6 build 15G17023. (The build number after installing Security Update 2017-004 El Capitan released Oct. 31st, 2017.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link. Nvidia CUDA 9.0.222 Update
(for macOS 10.13.x) (Nov 2nd, 2017) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 9.0.222 Update. Page notes "CUDA driver update to support CUDA Toolkit 9.0" and lists "Supported MAC OS X 10.13.x". (Here's a direct download link for CUDA 9.0.222.)
FYI: Despite D/L page listing only macOS 10.13.x support, a reader said he's using CUDA 9.0.222 in macOS 10.12.6 (build w/security update 2017-001) with the updated Web Graphics driver below. Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.10.10.10.20.107
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1
Build 17B48 (Nov 1st, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.20.107 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1 (build 17B48, the initial 10.13.1 non-beta release.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.05.05.25f03
for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G1036 (Nov. 1, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.05.05.25f03 for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G1036. (The build number after installing Oct. 31st, 2017 Security Update 2017-001 Sierra.) Here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.10.10.10.15.121
for macOS High Sierra 10.13
Build 17A405 (Oct 27th, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.15.121 for macOS High Sierra 10.13 build 17A405. This is the third driver update for build 17A405. (The build number with macOS 10.13 Supplemental Update installed.) See above for CUDA update for macOS 10.13. (If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link.) Unigine Benchmarks with Nvidia macOS 10.13 driver & GTX-1050 Ti (Oct 2017) Unigine Heaven and Valley benchmark scores with Nvidia web driver for macOS 10.13 used with an Nvidia GTX-1050 Ti card in a Hackintosh. Nvidia CUDA 9.0.197 Update
(for macOS 10.12.x) (Sept 27, 2017) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 9.0.197 Update. Page notes "CUDA driver update to support CUDA Toolkit 9.0" and lists "Supported MAC OS X 10.12.x". This version is NOT compatible with High Sierra. Unigine Benchmarks with Nvidia macOS 10.12.6 driver & GTX-1050 Ti (Aug 2017) Unigine Heaven and Valley benchmark scores with Nvidia web driver for macOS 10.12.6 used with an Nvidia GTX-1050 Ti card in a Hackintosh. Nvidia CUDA 8.0.90 Update with macOS 10.12.6 Support (July 21, 2017) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 8.0.90 Update. Page notes "General CUDA driver update to support macOS 10.12 & NVIDIA display driver 378.05.05.25f01" and lists "Supported MAC OS X: 10.12.x and 10.11.x". (Previous CUDA versions are available at Mac CUDA Drivers Archive.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.05.05.25f01
for macOS Sierra 10.12.6
build 16G29 (July 21, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.05.05.25f01 for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G29, the first non-beta release. This driver is NOT compatible with the Oct. 31st, 2017 released Security Update 2017-001 for macOS Sierra. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.10.5 (July 21, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 346.02.03f14 for OS X 10.11.5 build 14F2511. (The build number after installing Security Update 2017-003 released July 19th, 2017.) Current CUDA 8.x versions don't list OS X 10.10.x support - see below for last CUDA 7.x version for OS X 10.10.x. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.9.5 (Jul 20, 2016) Download page for Nvidia Graphics driver 334.01.03f11 for OS X 10.9.5 build 13F1911. (The build number after installing Security Update 2016-004 released July 18, 2016.) See below for latest CUDA version for OS X 10.9.x. Nvidia CUDA 7.5.30
(Supports OS X 10.9.5) (June 27, 2016) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 7.5.30 that lists support for OS X 10.9.5 and 10.10.x. (CUDA 8 versions list support for OS X 10.11 and later.) As with previous CUDA 7 versions, it has a note it doesn't support older generation GPUs with SM1.x (compute capability 1.x). For other versions, see Mac CUDA Drivers Archive. Using External Video Card in
Thunderbolt PCIe Chassis
with a MacBook Pro (Sept 2015) Reader report on using a Thunderbolt PCIe expansion chassis and Nvidia GT740 card connected to a MacBook Pro with Thunderbolt 1. Article includes notes on mods and internal display/external display performance tests of the internal GPU vs the Thunderbolt PCIe expansion cased Nvidia GT 740 card in Cinebench and Games. Radeon 7950 ROM Switch Tip for Mac EFI ( *Important Tip for macOS High Sierra Upgrade*) See linked page for picture of the Radeon 7950 ROM Switch positions for EFI (Mac) and PC. The card's rom switch should be set to the EFI (not UEFI/PC) position for Mac use. Apparently some had never checked/changed the switch position. Updated with more info including notes on possible reversed switches and reports of no difference in either switch setting. (macOS 10.13 High Sierra requires a Mac EFI rom card in the Mac Pro to update. A Radeon 7950 user reported his problems installing macOS 10.13 was due to the wrong ROM switch position.) 2009 iMac Radeon Video Card Repair (GPU BGA reball) (Sept 2015) Reader report on repairing a late 2009 27-inch iMac's Radeon HD4850 video card GPU that had cracked solder joints. (Repair was a BGA reball of the GPU for appx. $56 US.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.8.5 (Aug 17, 2015) Download page for Graphics driver 313.01.04.f06 for OS X 10.8.5 build 12F2560. (The build after installing OS X Security Update 2015-006 released Aug 13th.) As of post date, that page lists older Cuda 5.5.28 version but the link goes driver archive with CUDA 7.x versions that do not list 10.8.x support. As of post date, latest CUDA to list OS X 10.8.x support is CUDA 6.5.51 from April 2015. Early 2011 to Early 2013 MacBook Pro Repair Extension Program for Video/GPU Issues (Feb 2015) Link to Apple's repair program posted Feb. 19th, 2015 (updated 2016-02-18). "Apple has determined that a small percentage of MacBook Pro systems may exhibit distorted video, no video, or unexpected system restarts. These MacBook Pro systems were sold between February 2011 and December 2013." (See linked page for details including info on refunds if you paid for a repair previously.) 2011 MacBook Pro GPU Problems/Logic Board Replacements (June 2014) Notes on repeated failures/repairs (logic board replacements) of 2011 MacBook Pros including a reader report on getting a Late 2013 MacBook Pro (retina) replacement after the 3 repairs/4th failure. Includes link to 800+ page Apple forum thread from 2011 MacBook Pro owners and Petition to Apple to replace/fix all affected MBPs. (See above for Feb 2015 Apple repair program for affected models.) 2007 Mac Pro w/PC Radeon 7970 running OS X Mavericks (Dec 2013) Reader's notes on his 2007 Mac Pro 2,1 running OS X 10.9 Mavericks via Tiamo's Boot EFI patch with a (PC) Radeon 7970 graphics card. (Using a cable mod for 8-pin aux power.) 27" iMac AMD Radeon 6970M
Failures/Replacement Program (from Aug. 2013 - program now expired) Apple notes "some AMD Radeon HD 6970M video cards used in 27inch iMac computers with 3.1GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 or 3.4GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processors may fail, causing the computer's display to appear distorted, white or blue with vertical lines, or to turn black..." (see page for full details/info on range of affected models) Nvidia GTX 570 in
Mac Pro (OS X 10.8.x)
w/Benchmarks vs 8800GT Article from a 2008 Mac Pro owner (running OS X Mountain Lion) on an Nvidia GTX-570 video card upgrade (bought on auction site) that replaced an Nvidia 8800GT card. Report includes benchmarks vs the previous 8800GT card including LuxMark 2.0, smallluxGPU, OpenGL, Cinebench, NovaBench and FPS. More on 15" Mid-2010 MacBook Pro Video Problems and Warranty Repair Extension (Apple's Repair extension program has ended.)
(Aug 2012) Report from an affected 15in Mid-2010 MacBook Pro owner on multiple motherboard replacements to fix Video/GPU problems. Includes links/notes on apple's updated article on the topic that extended the warranty repair for this problem to 3 years from date of purchase, with a note in the doc on 'extensions as necessary'.
(Also includes links to previous posts here on Mid-2010 MacBook Pro 15" (w/Nvidia GT330M) video problems going back to fall 2011, the evolving apple support document on the problem and apple's previously posted Video/OS updates for 15" 2010 MacBook Pros (OS X Lion & Snow Leopard) which may not fix the problem so they added the extended repair service for affected models.) 2010 MacBook Pro 13" owner notes on Nvidia 320M Problems (July 2012) Notes/links from owners of MacBook Pros with w/Nvidia GT320M graphics about problems/failures they have seen and/or had repaired. Includes links to threads on this problem with screenshots (checkerboard patterns, etc) and repair/replacement reports. Like some others, a reader was offered a replacement motherboard but is concerned about a repeat of the problem over time. (FYI: See above for info on similar problems with 15in (GT330M) Mid-2010 MacBook Pros that had an Apple repair extension program.) MacBook Pro (Nvidia 8600M) GPU Failures/Repairs Our original article from July 2008 (updated 100+ times) on flawed Nvidia GPU/Failures including the 8600M used in some series of MacBook Pros. Includes Apple's doc on the issue that notes affected MacBook Pro model production ranges and a warranty extension, Tips for affected model owners, and many reader reports (good and bad) on their experience with the extended repair program. (FYI: Apple doc on this updated to note the repair program ended Dec. 7th, 2012.) Nvidia 8800GT Card
Oven-Bake/Solder Reflow
Tip (Feedback) (Apr 2012) A few more positive reports on the "Oven Bake"/solder reflow fix (example youtube video) for some Nvidia 8800GT card problems in Apple's Mac Pro forums. Some earlier/older threads on Nvidia 8800GT card problems have updated posts (here and here) on the oven-bake fix. As always, YMMV. (Some MP owners had also tried older tips on removing dust buildup, redoing thermal paste, SMCfanControl to boost case fan speeds for better cooling, etc.) I was skeptical when I first heard about it but oven baking posts in Nvidia's forums go back to 2010. Late 2008 MacBook Pro EFI Firmware Update 2.8 (Late Feb 2012) Per Apple's Download page, for Late 2008 15in MacBook Pros and said to fix a graphics issue that may cause internal display flicker. Reader Feedback on Mac ATI 5870 graphics card (Dec 2011) Replies to a reader request for Mac 5870 user feedback from longer term use. (i.e. any app or OS issues seen over time, would they buy again, etc). Also includes some owner's notes on flashed models (including 6870s) as well as comparison of 5870 vs 6870 hardware features and clock rates. Reader Feedback on Flashed Radeon 6870 in Mac Pro (2008) 2008 Mac Pro owner notes on using a flashed PC Radeon 6870 video card in his Mac Pro running OS X Lion. (Using unofficial 64bit EFI rom noted earlier.) 2010 MacBook Pro 15"
Video Driver Update
(to fix intermittent black screen/no video/freezes) (Oct. 2011) Hopefully a fix for this issue (intermittent freezes/black screen, no video) noted here on 10/13/2011. Initially the updater was only for Lion, but Apple later posted an updater for 10.6.8 users.
(BTW: The Apple doc has a note that if symptoms persist after the update, Apple service is reqd. They also note an extended service period (beyond the std warranty) for this issue.) 64-bit EFI ROM
for Radeon 6870 (Aug 2011) Post regarding a 64bit EFI ROM for flashing PC Radeon 6870s for use in Mac Pro 2008 and later. (EFI64 models, Mac Pro 3,1 and later models.) Report of PC Radeon 6870 working w/OS X 10.6.6 Drivers from 2011 MBP (Mar 2011) Posts regarding ATI drivers (kext) from early 2011 MacBook Pro's 10.6.6 build's working with reference (std/PC) Radeon 6870 cards (less boot screen). Also said to work with PC/ref 5870s as well. 2009 Mac Pro owner running GTX-285 and ATI 4870 Cards (via Aux power Y adapters) (April 2010) Comments from a 2009 Mac Pro owner on using both an Nvidia GTX-285 and an ATI 4870 graphics card. (By using Y adapters off the Mac Pros 2 Aux Power Connectors, since each card requires 2 power connections.) I know in the past some Mac Pro owners had used ext PS or adapters off the PATA Optical drive connections in pre-09 Mac Pros. And yes, he knows that apple lists 300W Max for the PCIe cards in the manual. XFX 4870/1GB VRAM flashed for Mac Pro Use (July 2009) Reader notes/links on flashing a PC XFX brand Radeon 4870/1MB vram for use in his (PCIe 1.0) Mac Pro. EVGA GTX 285
Mac Edition Review
(vs ATI 4870 and GT120) (June 2009) Review/comparisons of EVGA's Nvidia GeForce GTX 285 Mac edition vs the Mac ATI 4870 and the base Geforce GT120 card, tested in a 2009 Mac Pro 8-core 2.66GHz system. Includes pages on apps/game tests, power (watts) usage, benchmarks and Bootcamp/Vista use. (Including EVGA's Precision utility that supports the Logitech G15 keyboard's LCD display for realtime FPS, GPU temperature and clock speed reporting.) Review of ATI Radeon HD 3870 Mac/PC Edition
vs Nvidia 8800GT and
ATI Radeon X1900 (June 2008) Review of the ATI Radeon HD 3870 Mac/PC Edition PCI-Express 2.0 card (backward compatible with PCI-Express 1.0 Mac Pro Systems). Includes tests in OS X Leopard and Windows Vista vs Mac Nvida 8800GT and ATI X1900XT cards in a 2008 Mac Pro (PCIe 2.0) as well as previous PCIe 1.0 Mac Pro (2007/2006) models. ATI X1900 XT Artifacts/Overheating Notes/Tips More reader notes, tips, screenshots, etc on ATI X1900 XT display artifacts (from overheating). Included are more comments on card cooler swaps, using SMCfancontrol to increase Mac Pro bay fan speeds and card revisions. Overheating X1900 XT due to Dust Clogging Heatsink Fins ATI X1900 XT display artifacts (from overheating) caused by clogged heatsink fins on the card. Worth checking if you've used one of these cards for any period of time, especially in a dusty enviroment. Display/Monitor or HDTV Related Articles Notes/Tips for Repeated Mac Mini HDMI Blackouts with some A/V Receivers Several Mac Mini (2011 and 2012) owners reported repeated HDMI video dropout/blackouts (appx every 7 seconds) when using some models of Yamaha AV Receivers like the RX-A2040/3040. (Later reports on other models/brands however and not just mac mini related.) Includes suggestions/tips and questions about OS X and their Receiver settings as I could not replicate this problem with a 2012 Mac Mini tested with Yamaha RX-A3050 and RX-A2000 receivers. (I do see an initial video blackout (handshake/sync) at boot or wake from sleep but not the repeated cases some others noted.) Includes info and tips on HDCP problems and July 28th, 2016 firmware updates for many yamaha receivers from 2010 to 2016. Apple Thunderbolt Display Firmware Update v1.2 Info/Download/Tips:(Nov 2014) Per Apple download page "This update improves reliability when connecting devices to the Apple Thunderbolt Display, and addresses a rare issue that may cause the display to go black." (Updated post with info on install/actual display firmware version(s) after the update and settings tip that may help with the display 'blackout'/flicker problem.) Tips for HDCP Errors/Problems playing iTunes HD Video(2014) Notes and Tips to try if you're seeing HDCP errors or purchased HD video playback problems despite your display being HDCP compatible. Some OS X software/settings can trigger HDCP problems like screen sharing and some screen capture software. (Includes a note to check sharing status after upgrading to OS X Yosemite.) (OS X) EDID Patch Script to Force RGB Mode (vs YCbCr) on External DisplaysLinks to threads on EDID mods to fix washed out/color issues with some external HDMI/DisplayPort Monitors used with modern Macs that includes an EDID patch script. Also forcing RGB mode (PC mode) instead of YCbCr (typical TV mode). DVI Apple Cinema HD 23" Black Screen (Boot/Wake)Reader tip for Aluminum 23in Cinema HD no video/black screen on boot or wake from sleep. Mac Radeon 7950 user notes on Triple Displays Info and notes from a Mac Sapphire Radeon 7950 owner on reported resolution problems with his three connected Dell displays. Late 2012 Mac Mini HDMI Video Problems/Notes/Tips Coverage of Late 2012 Mac Mini HDMI display dropouts/intermittent black screens/video noise ("snow"). With info on Apple's EFI Update to fix HDMI Flicker and tests with a Late 2012 Mac Mini using an HDMI Samsung LCD Monitor and LG LM7600 (1080P) HDTV using a direct HDMI connection and via an A/V Receiver. Also tested OK with a MDP 27in Cinema Display. Incliudes tips for common problems like washed-out displays, an EDID patch script to force RGB mode and notes on HDCP issues and more. DVD Player/Video Software Related Articles Set Up OS X to Output 5.1/7.1 Surround Sound via HDMI to an A/V Receiver & HDTV(2014) Info and tips on setting OS X DVD Player output 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound. Also has general OS X Audio/Multichannel setup info & notes on Mac HDMI to AVR/HDTV configuration. (Test system was 2012 Mac Mini HDMI out to A/V Receiver connected to an HDTV.) Playing Blu-Rays in OS X
(using VLC and MakeMKV)(Jan. 2010) Notes on using freeware VLC player & MakeMKV to playback BR movies in OS X. Encoding Speed Tests w/Elgato Turbo.264 Hardware Encoder Reader tests of ElGato's Turbo.264 USB 2.0 Hardware Encoder vs standard Quicktime H.264 export speed with an iBook G4, Quad G5, Core 2 Duo MacBook Pro and iMac Core Duo. Apple TV / Related Articles Apple TV Support/How-To and Troubleshooting Articles (2017) Apple TV section with Setup, How-To and problem solving tips, including 4K Apple TV (5th generation) info on HDR, Dolby Vision, Audio/Surround Sound, and more. Tips for Unable to Restore an Apple TV using iTunes (2013) Info from Apple with USB cable tips for restoring an Apple TV that has Problems/Errors or doesn't appear in iTunes. Apple TV 320GB Hard Drive Upgrade Guide - A Better Way (IMHO) (Mar 2010) First generation Apple TV Hard Drive Upgrade, using a method that avoids ripping off the entire bottom rubber cover. Guide includes pictures, take-apart notes and more. Cooling, Tips & Tweaking Articles
(for older video cards) Nvidia 8800GT w/Accelero S1 rev2 cooler Short article w/photos from a Mac Pro owner on using an Accelero S1 Rev 2 cooler (passive) on his 8800GT. (Updated with temperature tests (Fanless) vs stock cooler and notes on adding a fan to this cooler.) Arctic Cooling Accelero S1 / Revoltec Graphics Freezer Pro (for ATI X1900 XT) Comments, Notes and Photos from a Mac Pro owner on quieting his X1900 XT card using an Arctic Cooling Accelero S1. (Includes notes on fit problems with the Revoltec Graphics Freezer Pro in the Mac Pro, although he's using it in a PC on a X1950 card.) Accelero S1 Rev 2 on ATI X800 (in G5 Tower) Short article w/photos from a G5 Tower owner on using an Accelero S1 Rev 2 cooler (passive) on his ATI X800 card - with mods to G5 tower's air deflector required to clear the S1 R2's heatsink. ATIcellerator II - ATI Overclocking Utility Reports on using the ATIcellerator II dynamic (on the fly) Overclocking utility from owners of Desktop and Powerbook/iBook ATI onboard graphics users. Some reports include performance tests of stock GPU/memory clock speeds vs OC'd speeds.
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Graphics Cards and Drivers | Displays/Monitor Related | Apple TV
DVD Player/Video Utilities | (older model) Card Coolers Graphics Card/Video Related (later first) Unigine Benchmarks with macOS 10.12.6 (16G1212) & Nvidia GTX-1050 Ti (Jan 26, 2018) Unigine Heaven and Valley benchmark scores with Nvidia web driver for macOS 10.12.6 build 16G1212 used with an Nvidia GTX-1050 Ti card in a Hackintosh. CUDA 387.128 Update
(for macOS 10.13.x) (Jan. 25, 2018) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 387.128 for macOS. Page notes "CUDA driver update to support CUDA Toolkit 9.1, macOS 10.13.3 and NVIDIA display driver 378.10.10.10.25.156". (Here's a direct download link for CUDA 387.128.) Despite the download page listing only macOS 10.13.x support, it may work with 10.12.6 - use prefs check for CUDA update. (IIRC previous version did.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS Sierra 10.12.6
build 16G1212 (Jan. 25, 2018) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.05.05.25f06 for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G1212. (The build number after installing Security Update 2018-001 Sierra.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.11.6
Build 15G19009 (Jan. 25, 2018) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 346.03.15f12 for OS X 10.11.6 build 15G19009. (The build number after installing Security Update 2018-001 El Capitan.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link.
(The driver page mentions a very old CUDA v7.5.30. If you already have CUDA installed, check the prefs for an update. (The last CUDA version that listed OS X 10.11.x support on the download page was CUDA 8.0.90, but the D/L page listing isn't always accurate.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.3
Build 17D47 (Jan 24, 2018) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 387.10.10.10.25.156 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.3 build 17D47. (If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct D/L link.) See above for new CUDA update for macOS 10.13.x. Radeon R9 280X 3GB
in Mac Pros
(2008 & 2010/12) (Jan 2018) CineBench R15 and GeekBench benchmark scores of (flashed) AMD Radeon R9 280X 3GB card in a Mac Pro 5,1 (dual 3.46GHz) running macOS 10.12.6, using an LG 32UD59-B 4K 32in Display. Also used in his 2008 Mac Pro (3,1) running 10.12.6 now. (He ordered a Radeon RX 580 8GB for the Mac Pro 5,1.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2
Build 17C205 (Jan 10, 2018) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.25.104 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2 build 17C205. The build after installing macOS 10.13.2 Supplemental Update released January 8th, 2018. (If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct D/L link.) External AMD Graphics on macOS High Sierra (PDF) (Dec 2017) Sonnet PDF has info on compatibility with Thunderbolt "eGPU" setup and lists Mac models (with Thunderbolt ports) tested for compatibility as well as a list of AMD Radeon cards plug-and-play compatible with macOS High Sierra 10.13.2. (As of post date, includes Radeon RX 470, 480, 570, 580, Vega 56 and Vega 64. Power Requirements vary - their listing includes compatibility info for their eGPU Breakaway Puck/Breakaway Box models.) The PDF also includes setup and troubleshooting guide.
(FYI - Their FAQ notes macOS 10.13.2 required for Vega or WX9100 beta support. HDMI output is not yet supported on Vega. Hot unplug without a monitor attached currently results in a kernel panic.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2
Build 17C89 (Dec 9, 2017) If you have macOS 10.13.2 build 17C89 (from Combo Update), here's a direct download of driver v378.10.10.10.25.103. (As of Dec. 10th, no download page for it yet.) To check your macOS build number, select Apple menu -> "About this Mac", and click on the macOS version number. Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2
Build 17C88 (Dec 7, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.25.102 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.2 build 17C88. (first non-beta 10.13.2.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a v378.10.10.10.25.102 D/L link.
(Update: If you have build 17C89 (10.13.2 Combo Update), see above for driver v378.10.10.10.25.103.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
for macOS Sierra 10.12.6
build 16G1114 (Dec. 7, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.05.05.25f04 for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G1114. (The build number after installing Security Update 2017-002 Sierra.) Here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.11.6
Build 15G18013 (Dec. 7, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 346.03.15f11 for OS X 10.11.6 build 15G18013. (The build number after installing Security Update 2017-005 El Capitan.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link.
(The driver page mentions a very old CUDA v7.5.30. If you already have CUDA installed, check the prefs for an update. (The last CUDA version that listed OS X 10.11.x support on the download page was CUDA 8.0.90, but the D/L page listing isn't always accurate.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.10.10.10.20.109
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1
Build 17B1003 (Dec 1, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.20.109 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1 build 17B1003. (Apple revised Security Update 2017-001 for macOS 10.13.1 (again) which changes the build number from 17B1002 to 17B1003.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a v378.10.10.10.20.109 D/L link for use with Build 17B1003. Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.10.10.10.20.108
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1
Build 17B1002 (Nov 30, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.20.108 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1 build 17B1002, (An early build number after installing Security Update 2017-001 High Sierra.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.11.6
Build 15G17023 (Nov 3, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 346.03.15f10 for OS X 10.11.6 build 15G17023. (The build number after installing Security Update 2017-004 El Capitan released Oct. 31st, 2017.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link. Nvidia CUDA 9.0.222 Update
(for macOS 10.13.x) (Nov 2nd, 2017) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 9.0.222 Update. Page notes "CUDA driver update to support CUDA Toolkit 9.0" and lists "Supported MAC OS X 10.13.x". (Here's a direct download link for CUDA 9.0.222.)
FYI: Despite D/L page listing only macOS 10.13.x support, a reader said he's using CUDA 9.0.222 in macOS 10.12.6 (build w/security update 2017-001) with the updated Web Graphics driver below. Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.10.10.10.20.107
for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1
Build 17B48 (Nov 1st, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.20.107 for macOS High Sierra 10.13.1 (build 17B48, the initial 10.13.1 non-beta release.) If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.05.05.25f03
for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G1036 (Nov. 1, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.05.05.25f03 for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G1036. (The build number after installing Oct. 31st, 2017 Security Update 2017-001 Sierra.) Here's a direct download link. Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.10.10.10.15.121
for macOS High Sierra 10.13
Build 17A405 (Oct 27th, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.10.10.10.15.121 for macOS High Sierra 10.13 build 17A405. This is the third driver update for build 17A405. (The build number with macOS 10.13 Supplemental Update installed.) See above for CUDA update for macOS 10.13. (If you can't select the page's 'Accept' terms/conditions button, here's a direct download link.) Unigine Benchmarks with Nvidia macOS 10.13 driver & GTX-1050 Ti (Oct 2017) Unigine Heaven and Valley benchmark scores with Nvidia web driver for macOS 10.13 used with an Nvidia GTX-1050 Ti card in a Hackintosh. Nvidia CUDA 9.0.197 Update
(for macOS 10.12.x) (Sept 27, 2017) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 9.0.197 Update. Page notes "CUDA driver update to support CUDA Toolkit 9.0" and lists "Supported MAC OS X 10.12.x". This version is NOT compatible with High Sierra. Unigine Benchmarks with Nvidia macOS 10.12.6 driver & GTX-1050 Ti (Aug 2017) Unigine Heaven and Valley benchmark scores with Nvidia web driver for macOS 10.12.6 used with an Nvidia GTX-1050 Ti card in a Hackintosh. Nvidia CUDA 8.0.90 Update with macOS 10.12.6 Support (July 21, 2017) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 8.0.90 Update. Page notes "General CUDA driver update to support macOS 10.12 & NVIDIA display driver 378.05.05.25f01" and lists "Supported MAC OS X: 10.12.x and 10.11.x". (Previous CUDA versions are available at Mac CUDA Drivers Archive.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
378.05.05.25f01
for macOS Sierra 10.12.6
build 16G29 (July 21, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 378.05.05.25f01 for macOS Sierra 10.12.6 build 16G29, the first non-beta release. This driver is NOT compatible with the Oct. 31st, 2017 released Security Update 2017-001 for macOS Sierra. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.10.5 (July 21, 2017) Download page for Nvidia Graphics Driver 346.02.03f14 for OS X 10.11.5 build 14F2511. (The build number after installing Security Update 2017-003 released July 19th, 2017.) Current CUDA 8.x versions don't list OS X 10.10.x support - see below for last CUDA 7.x version for OS X 10.10.x. Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.9.5 (Jul 20, 2016) Download page for Nvidia Graphics driver 334.01.03f11 for OS X 10.9.5 build 13F1911. (The build number after installing Security Update 2016-004 released July 18, 2016.) See below for latest CUDA version for OS X 10.9.x. Nvidia CUDA 7.5.30
(Supports OS X 10.9.5) (June 27, 2016) Download page for Nvidia CUDA 7.5.30 that lists support for OS X 10.9.5 and 10.10.x. (CUDA 8 versions list support for OS X 10.11 and later.) As with previous CUDA 7 versions, it has a note it doesn't support older generation GPUs with SM1.x (compute capability 1.x). For other versions, see Mac CUDA Drivers Archive. Using External Video Card in
Thunderbolt PCIe Chassis
with a MacBook Pro (Sept 2015) Reader report on using a Thunderbolt PCIe expansion chassis and Nvidia GT740 card connected to a MacBook Pro with Thunderbolt 1. Article includes notes on mods and internal display/external display performance tests of the internal GPU vs the Thunderbolt PCIe expansion cased Nvidia GT 740 card in Cinebench and Games. Radeon 7950 ROM Switch Tip for Mac EFI ( *Important Tip for macOS High Sierra Upgrade*) See linked page for picture of the Radeon 7950 ROM Switch positions for EFI (Mac) and PC. The card's rom switch should be set to the EFI (not UEFI/PC) position for Mac use. Apparently some had never checked/changed the switch position. Updated with more info including notes on possible reversed switches and reports of no difference in either switch setting. (macOS 10.13 High Sierra requires a Mac EFI rom card in the Mac Pro to update. A Radeon 7950 user reported his problems installing macOS 10.13 was due to the wrong ROM switch position.) 2009 iMac Radeon Video Card Repair (GPU BGA reball) (Sept 2015) Reader report on repairing a late 2009 27-inch iMac's Radeon HD4850 video card GPU that had cracked solder joints. (Repair was a BGA reball of the GPU for appx. $56 US.) Nvidia Graphics Driver
Update for OS X 10.8.5 (Aug 17, 2015) Download page for Graphics driver 313.01.04.f06 for OS X 10.8.5 build 12F2560. (The build after installing OS X Security Update 2015-006 released Aug 13th.) As of post date, that page lists older Cuda 5.5.28 version but the link goes driver archive with CUDA 7.x versions that do not list 10.8.x support. As of post date, latest CUDA to list OS X 10.8.x support is CUDA 6.5.51 from April 2015. Early 2011 to Early 2013 MacBook Pro Repair Extension Program for Video/GPU Issues (Feb 2015) Link to Apple's repair program posted Feb. 19th, 2015 (updated 2016-02-18). "Apple has determined that a small percentage of MacBook Pro systems may exhibit distorted video, no video, or unexpected system restarts. These MacBook Pro systems were sold between February 2011 and December 2013." (See linked page for details including info on refunds if you paid for a repair previously.) 2011 MacBook Pro GPU Problems/Logic Board Replacements (June 2014) Notes on repeated failures/repairs (logic board replacements) of 2011 MacBook Pros including a reader report on getting a Late 2013 MacBook Pro (retina) replacement after the 3 repairs/4th failure. Includes link to 800+ page Apple forum thread from 2011 MacBook Pro owners and Petition to Apple to replace/fix all affected MBPs. (See above for Feb 2015 Apple repair program for affected models.) 2007 Mac Pro w/PC Radeon 7970 running OS X Mavericks (Dec 2013) Reader's notes on his 2007 Mac Pro 2,1 running OS X 10.9 Mavericks via Tiamo's Boot EFI patch with a (PC) Radeon 7970 graphics card. (Using a cable mod for 8-pin aux power.) 27" iMac AMD Radeon 6970M
Failures/Replacement Program (from Aug. 2013 - program now expired) Apple notes "some AMD Radeon HD 6970M video cards used in 27inch iMac computers with 3.1GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 or 3.4GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processors may fail, causing the computer's display to appear distorted, white or blue with vertical lines, or to turn black..." (see page for full details/info on range of affected models) Nvidia GTX 570 in
Mac Pro (OS X 10.8.x)
w/Benchmarks vs 8800GT Article from a 2008 Mac Pro owner (running OS X Mountain Lion) on an Nvidia GTX-570 video card upgrade (bought on auction site) that replaced an Nvidia 8800GT card. Report includes benchmarks vs the previous 8800GT card including LuxMark 2.0, smallluxGPU, OpenGL, Cinebench, NovaBench and FPS. More on 15" Mid-2010 MacBook Pro Video Problems and Warranty Repair Extension (Apple's Repair extension program has ended.)
(Aug 2012) Report from an affected 15in Mid-2010 MacBook Pro owner on multiple motherboard replacements to fix Video/GPU problems. Includes links/notes on apple's updated article on the topic that extended the warranty repair for this problem to 3 years from date of purchase, with a note in the doc on 'extensions as necessary'.
(Also includes links to previous posts here on Mid-2010 MacBook Pro 15" (w/Nvidia GT330M) video problems going back to fall 2011, the evolving apple support document on the problem and apple's previously posted Video/OS updates for 15" 2010 MacBook Pros (OS X Lion & Snow Leopard) which may not fix the problem so they added the extended repair service for affected models.) 2010 MacBook Pro 13" owner notes on Nvidia 320M Problems (July 2012) Notes/links from owners of MacBook Pros with w/Nvidia GT320M graphics about problems/failures they have seen and/or had repaired. Includes links to threads on this problem with screenshots (checkerboard patterns, etc) and repair/replacement reports. Like some others, a reader was offered a replacement motherboard but is concerned about a repeat of the problem over time. (FYI: See above for info on similar problems with 15in (GT330M) Mid-2010 MacBook Pros that had an Apple repair extension program.) MacBook Pro (Nvidia 8600M) GPU Failures/Repairs Our original article from July 2008 (updated 100+ times) on flawed Nvidia GPU/Failures including the 8600M used in some series of MacBook Pros. Includes Apple's doc on the issue that notes affected MacBook Pro model production ranges and a warranty extension, Tips for affected model owners, and many reader reports (good and bad) on their experience with the extended repair program. (FYI: Apple doc on this updated to note the repair program ended Dec. 7th, 2012.) Nvidia 8800GT Card
Oven-Bake/Solder Reflow
Tip (Feedback) (Apr 2012) A few more positive reports on the "Oven Bake"/solder reflow fix (example youtube video) for some Nvidia 8800GT card problems in Apple's Mac Pro forums. Some earlier/older threads on Nvidia 8800GT card problems have updated posts (here and here) on the oven-bake fix. As always, YMMV. (Some MP owners had also tried older tips on removing dust buildup, redoing thermal paste, SMCfanControl to boost case fan speeds for better cooling, etc.) I was skeptical when I first heard about it but oven baking posts in Nvidia's forums go back to 2010. Late 2008 MacBook Pro EFI Firmware Update 2.8 (Late Feb 2012) Per Apple's Download page, for Late 2008 15in MacBook Pros and said to fix a graphics issue that may cause internal display flicker. Reader Feedback on Mac ATI 5870 graphics card (Dec 2011) Replies to a reader request for Mac 5870 user feedback from longer term use. (i.e. any app or OS issues seen over time, would they buy again, etc). Also includes some owner's notes on flashed models (including 6870s) as well as comparison of 5870 vs 6870 hardware features and clock rates. Reader Feedback on Flashed Radeon 6870 in Mac Pro (2008) 2008 Mac Pro owner notes on using a flashed PC Radeon 6870 video card in his Mac Pro running OS X Lion. (Using unofficial 64bit EFI rom noted earlier.) 2010 MacBook Pro 15"
Video Driver Update
(to fix intermittent black screen/no video/freezes) (Oct. 2011) Hopefully a fix for this issue (intermittent freezes/black screen, no video) noted here on 10/13/2011. Initially the updater was only for Lion, but Apple later posted an updater for 10.6.8 users.
(BTW: The Apple doc has a note that if symptoms persist after the update, Apple service is reqd. They also note an extended service period (beyond the std warranty) for this issue.) 64-bit EFI ROM
for Radeon 6870 (Aug 2011) Post regarding a 64bit EFI ROM for flashing PC Radeon 6870s for use in Mac Pro 2008 and later. (EFI64 models, Mac Pro 3,1 and later models.) Report of PC Radeon 6870 working w/OS X 10.6.6 Drivers from 2011 MBP (Mar 2011) Posts regarding ATI drivers (kext) from early 2011 MacBook Pro's 10.6.6 build's working with reference (std/PC) Radeon 6870 cards (less boot screen). Also said to work with PC/ref 5870s as well. 2009 Mac Pro owner running GTX-285 and ATI 4870 Cards (via Aux power Y adapters) (April 2010) Comments from a 2009 Mac Pro owner on using both an Nvidia GTX-285 and an ATI 4870 graphics card. (By using Y adapters off the Mac Pros 2 Aux Power Connectors, since each card requires 2 power connections.) I know in the past some Mac Pro owners had used ext PS or adapters off the PATA Optical drive connections in pre-09 Mac Pros. And yes, he knows that apple lists 300W Max for the PCIe cards in the manual. XFX 4870/1GB VRAM flashed for Mac Pro Use (July 2009) Reader notes/links on flashing a PC XFX brand Radeon 4870/1MB vram for use in his (PCIe 1.0) Mac Pro. EVGA GTX 285
Mac Edition Review
(vs ATI 4870 and GT120) (June 2009) Review/comparisons of EVGA's Nvidia GeForce GTX 285 Mac edition vs the Mac ATI 4870 and the base Geforce GT120 card, tested in a 2009 Mac Pro 8-core 2.66GHz system. Includes pages on apps/game tests, power (watts) usage, benchmarks and Bootcamp/Vista use. (Including EVGA's Precision utility that supports the Logitech G15 keyboard's LCD display for realtime FPS, GPU temperature and clock speed reporting.) Review of ATI Radeon HD 3870 Mac/PC Edition
vs Nvidia 8800GT and
ATI Radeon X1900 (June 2008) Review of the ATI Radeon HD 3870 Mac/PC Edition PCI-Express 2.0 card (backward compatible with PCI-Express 1.0 Mac Pro Systems). Includes tests in OS X Leopard and Windows Vista vs Mac Nvida 8800GT and ATI X1900XT cards in a 2008 Mac Pro (PCIe 2.0) as well as previous PCIe 1.0 Mac Pro (2007/2006) models. ATI X1900 XT Artifacts/Overheating Notes/Tips More reader notes, tips, screenshots, etc on ATI X1900 XT display artifacts (from overheating). Included are more comments on card cooler swaps, using SMCfancontrol to increase Mac Pro bay fan speeds and card revisions. Overheating X1900 XT due to Dust Clogging Heatsink Fins ATI X1900 XT display artifacts (from overheating) caused by clogged heatsink fins on the card. Worth checking if you've used one of these cards for any period of time, especially in a dusty enviroment. Display/Monitor or HDTV Related Articles Notes/Tips for Repeated Mac Mini HDMI Blackouts with some A/V Receivers Several Mac Mini (2011 and 2012) owners reported repeated HDMI video dropout/blackouts (appx every 7 seconds) when using some models of Yamaha AV Receivers like the RX-A2040/3040. (Later reports on other models/brands however and not just mac mini related.) Includes suggestions/tips and questions about OS X and their Receiver settings as I could not replicate this problem with a 2012 Mac Mini tested with Yamaha RX-A3050 and RX-A2000 receivers. (I do see an initial video blackout (handshake/sync) at boot or wake from sleep but not the repeated cases some others noted.) Includes info and tips on HDCP problems and July 28th, 2016 firmware updates for many yamaha receivers from 2010 to 2016. Apple Thunderbolt Display Firmware Update v1.2 Info/Download/Tips:(Nov 2014) Per Apple download page "This update improves reliability when connecting devices to the Apple Thunderbolt Display, and addresses a rare issue that may cause the display to go black." (Updated post with info on install/actual display firmware version(s) after the update and settings tip that may help with the display 'blackout'/flicker problem.) Tips for HDCP Errors/Problems playing iTunes HD Video(2014) Notes and Tips to try if you're seeing HDCP errors or purchased HD video playback problems despite your display being HDCP compatible. Some OS X software/settings can trigger HDCP problems like screen sharing and some screen capture software. (Includes a note to check sharing status after upgrading to OS X Yosemite.) (OS X) EDID Patch Script to Force RGB Mode (vs YCbCr) on External DisplaysLinks to threads on EDID mods to fix washed out/color issues with some external HDMI/DisplayPort Monitors used with modern Macs that includes an EDID patch script. Also forcing RGB mode (PC mode) instead of YCbCr (typical TV mode). DVI Apple Cinema HD 23" Black Screen (Boot/Wake)Reader tip for Aluminum 23in Cinema HD no video/black screen on boot or wake from sleep. Mac Radeon 7950 user notes on Triple Displays Info and notes from a Mac Sapphire Radeon 7950 owner on reported resolution problems with his three connected Dell displays. Late 2012 Mac Mini HDMI Video Problems/Notes/Tips Coverage of Late 2012 Mac Mini HDMI display dropouts/intermittent black screens/video noise ("snow"). With info on Apple's EFI Update to fix HDMI Flicker and tests with a Late 2012 Mac Mini using an HDMI Samsung LCD Monitor and LG LM7600 (1080P) HDTV using a direct HDMI connection and via an A/V Receiver. Also tested OK with a MDP 27in Cinema Display. Incliudes tips for common problems like washed-out displays, an EDID patch script to force RGB mode and notes on HDCP issues and more. DVD Player/Video Software Related Articles Set Up OS X to Output 5.1/7.1 Surround Sound via HDMI to an A/V Receiver & HDTV(2014) Info and tips on setting OS X DVD Player output 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound. Also has general OS X Audio/Multichannel setup info & notes on Mac HDMI to AVR/HDTV configuration. (Test system was 2012 Mac Mini HDMI out to A/V Receiver connected to an HDTV.) Playing Blu-Rays in OS X
(using VLC and MakeMKV)(Jan. 2010) Notes on using freeware VLC player & MakeMKV to playback BR movies in OS X. Encoding Speed Tests w/Elgato Turbo.264 Hardware Encoder Reader tests of ElGato's Turbo.264 USB 2.0 Hardware Encoder vs standard Quicktime H.264 export speed with an iBook G4, Quad G5, Core 2 Duo MacBook Pro and iMac Core Duo. Apple TV / Related Articles Apple TV Support/How-To and Troubleshooting Articles (2017) Apple TV section with Setup, How-To and problem solving tips, including 4K Apple TV (5th generation) info on HDR, Dolby Vision, Audio/Surround Sound, and more. Tips for Unable to Restore an Apple TV using iTunes (2013) Info from Apple with USB cable tips for restoring an Apple TV that has Problems/Errors or doesn't appear in iTunes. Apple TV 320GB Hard Drive Upgrade Guide - A Better Way (IMHO) (Mar 2010) First generation Apple TV Hard Drive Upgrade, using a method that avoids ripping off the entire bottom rubber cover. Guide includes pictures, take-apart notes and more. Cooling, Tips & Tweaking Articles
(for older video cards) Nvidia 8800GT w/Accelero S1 rev2 cooler Short article w/photos from a Mac Pro owner on using an Accelero S1 Rev 2 cooler (passive) on his 8800GT. (Updated with temperature tests (Fanless) vs stock cooler and notes on adding a fan to this cooler.) Arctic Cooling Accelero S1 / Revoltec Graphics Freezer Pro (for ATI X1900 XT) Comments, Notes and Photos from a Mac Pro owner on quieting his X1900 XT card using an Arctic Cooling Accelero S1. (Includes notes on fit problems with the Revoltec Graphics Freezer Pro in the Mac Pro, although he's using it in a PC on a X1950 card.) Accelero S1 Rev 2 on ATI X800 (in G5 Tower) Short article w/photos from a G5 Tower owner on using an Accelero S1 Rev 2 cooler (passive) on his ATI X800 card - with mods to G5 tower's air deflector required to clear the S1 R2's heatsink. ATIcellerator II - ATI Overclocking Utility Reports on using the ATIcellerator II dynamic (on the fly) Overclocking utility from owners of Desktop and Powerbook/iBook ATI onboard graphics users. Some reports include performance tests of stock GPU/memory clock speeds vs OC'd speeds.
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