Learn which memory type to use with your Mac mini, including Server configurations

Oct 27, 2012 19:31 GMT  ·  By

Apple has released a new KB article that details the memory specifications and upgrade process for the latest version of the Mac mini, introduced earlier this week. The computer supports up to 16 GB of RAM now, despite featuring only two slots that take DDR3 204-pin SO-DIMMs.

You don’t have to tear your new Mac mini apart to determine what you need to upgrade its memory, in case you suddenly decide more RAM is necessary for your computing needs.

Support document HT5475 confirms that “Mac mini (Late 2012) and Mac mini server (Late 2012) computers have two internal memory slots.”

According to Apple, each of these slots accepts standard PC3-12800 DDR3 204-pin SO-DIMMs (short for Small Outline DIMM).

The exact specifications, according to the knowledge base article, are: PC3-12800 DDR3; Unbuffered; Non-parity; 204-pin module; 1600 MHz.

The Cupertino giant confirms that this year’s Mac mini is compatible with RAM module sizes of 2 GB, 4 GB or 8 GB in each slot, which means that you can slide in two 8-gig SO DIMMs for a total of 16 gigabytes of RAM.

In fact, Apple advises that you install two identical memory modules each time you decide to perform an upgrade.

“For best performance, don't mix sizes of memory modules. Install two identical memory modules,” reads the documentation.

For instance, to have a total of 8 GB of memory, use two 4 GB modules that come from the same vendor, to ensure optimal performance.

Finally, the guide mentions DIMMs that won’t work with Mac mini (Late 2012) models. If the specs sheet lists features like Registers or buffers, PLLs, ECC, Parity, or EDO RAM, this type of memory is not to be used with the new Mac mini, according to the Mac maker.

Apple says that all these specifications apply to both  Mac mini (Late 2012), and Mac mini Server (Late 2012).

A tutorial on how to remove or install memory can be found here.