Sapphire Radeon HD 7950 Mac Edition Graphics Card User Manual

1. Introducción

This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Sapphire Radeon HD 7950 Mac Edition Graphics Card. Please read these instructions carefully before proceeding with installation to ensure proper functionality and to avoid potential issues.

2. Producto terminadoview

The Sapphire Radeon HD 7950 Mac Edition is a high-performance PCI-Express graphics card designed to enhance the graphical capabilities of compatible Mac Pro systems. It features AMD's Graphics Core Next (GCN) architecture, providing significant performance improvements for gaming, video editing, and content creation. The card is equipped with 3GB of GDDR5 memory and supports a variety of display outputs.

Figure 1: Sapphire Radeon HD 7950 Mac Edition Graphics Card. This image shows the overall design of the graphics card, featuring a white shroud with the Sapphire logo and 'Radeon HD 7950 Mac Edition' branding.

Características principales:

• Procesador gráfico: AMD Radeon 7950, 800MHz Engine Clock
• Memoria: 3GB 256-bit GDDR5, 5000MHz Effective Memory Speed
• Salidas de pantalla: HDMI (with 3D support), 2 Mini Display Ports, Dual-link DVI-I
• Compute Power: Up to 4.3 TFLOPS Single Precision
• Soporte API: Open GL 4.2, Open CL 1.2, AMD HD3D Technology, APP acceleration
• Firmware: Dual Firmware support for Mac OS X/Windows (non-UEFI) and Windows (UEFI hybrid)

3. Compatibilidad

This graphics card is compatible with Apple Mac Pro models from 2010 and later that have an available PCI-Express x16 slot. It requires Mac OS X 10.7.5 (Lion), 10.8.2 (Mountain Lion), or later versions for full functionality. Drivers are provided for both Mac OS X and Windows operating systems.

4. Contenido del paquete

Verifique que todos los siguientes elementos estén incluidos en el paquete de su producto:

• Sapphire Radeon HD 7950 Mac Edition Graphics Card
• Adaptador DVI a VGA
• Mini-DP to DP Cable
• 2 x 6-pin power cables for Mac (250MM)
• Manual de usuario (este documento)
• Driver CD for Mac
• Driver CD for Windows

5. Configuración e instalación

5.1. Instalación Física

1. Corriente cortada: Ensure your Mac Pro is completely powered off and disconnected from the power outlet.
2. Caso abierto: Carefully open your Mac Pro's case according to Apple's instructions.
3. Localice la ranura PCI-Express: Identify an available PCI-Express x16 slot. The card requires two PCI-E slots in terms of physical space.
4. Insertar tarjeta: Gently align the graphics card with the PCI-Express slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated. Ensure the retention clip (if present) engages.
5. Conecte la electricidad: Connect the two supplied 6-pin PCI-Express power cables from your Mac Pro's power supply to the corresponding ports on the graphics card.
6. Cerrar caso: Securely close your Mac Pro's case.

Figura 2: Posterior view of the Sapphire Radeon HD 7950 Mac Edition Graphics Card, showing the DVI, HDMI, and Mini DisplayPort outputs, as well as the PCI-Express connector.

5.2. Instalación del controlador

After physical installation, you must install the appropriate drivers for your operating system.

• Mac OS X: Insert the provided Mac driver CD. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers. For optimal performance, it is recommended to check the Sapphire website for the latest driver updates compatible with your specific Mac OS X version.
• Ventanas: If using Windows (via Boot Camp or a separate PC architecture), insert the provided Windows driver CD and follow the installation prompts. Again, checking the Sapphire website for the most current drivers is advised.

5.3. Dual Firmware Switch

The Sapphire HD 7950 Mac Edition features a Dual Firmware (Dual BIOS) switch. This switch allows you to select the appropriate firmware for your operating environment:

• Position 1 (Mac OS X/Windows non-UEFI): This setting supports Mac OS X and Windows installations that do not utilize UEFI compliant mode. This is typically the default for older Mac Pro models.
• Position 2 (Windows UEFI Hybrid): This setting supports Windows installations with UEFI hybrid firmware enabled, often found in newer PC architectures or specific Windows setups.

Ensure the switch is set to the correct position before booting your system to avoid compatibility issues.

6. Instrucciones de funcionamiento

6.1. Configuración de la pantalla

The card supports flexible display configurations:

• HDMI 1.4a: Supports resolutions up to 3840 x 2160.
• Mini DisplayPort (x2): Each port supports a maximum resolution of 3840 x 2160 under MacOS X.
• Dual-link DVI-I: Supports a maximum resolution of 2560 x 1600. Can be used with older VGA monitors via the supplied adapter.

The card supports two display outputs simultaneously for dual monitor setups. For configurations involving more than two displays, especially with high resolutions, active adapters may be required for Mini DisplayPort connections. Refer to your operating system's display settings for configuration options.

7. Mantenimiento

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your graphics card, consider the following maintenance guidelines:

• Eliminación de polvo: Periodically clean dust from the card's fan and heatsink using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
• Flujo de aire: Ensure adequate airflow within your Mac Pro's chassis to prevent overheating. Avoid obstructing ventilation paths.
• Actualizaciones de controladores: Regularly check the Sapphire website for updated drivers to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes.

8. Solución de problemas

Si tiene problemas con su tarjeta gráfica, consulte los siguientes pasos de solución de problemas comunes:

• Sin pantalla/pantalla negra:
  • Verify that the graphics card is fully seated in the PCI-Express slot.
  • Ensure both 6-pin power cables are securely connected to the card.
  • Check that your monitor cables are correctly connected to the graphics card and the monitor.
  • Confirm the Dual Firmware switch is in the correct position for your operating system.
  • Try a different display output port or monitor cable to rule out faulty connections.
• Display Issues (Artifacts, Flickering, Incorrect Resolution):
  • Update your graphics drivers to the latest version from the Sapphire websitio.
  • Check your display settings in your operating system to ensure the correct resolution and refresh rate are selected.
  • Ensure your monitor cables are not damaged and are securely connected.
  • If using adapters, ensure they are active and compatible with your setup.
• Inestabilidad/fallos del sistema:
  • Ensure your Mac Pro's power supply meets the minimum requirements for the graphics card.
  • Monitor system temperatures to ensure the card is not overheating. Improve case airflow if necessary.
  • Perform a clean installation of the graphics drivers.
• Monitor Does Not Wake from Sleep:
  • This can sometimes occur due to driver or OS-specific power management settings. Ensure drivers are up to date.
  • Try unplugging and re-plugging the display cable.
  • Adjust power saving settings in your operating system.

9. Especificaciones

10. Garantía y soporte

For information regarding product warranty, technical support, and service, please refer to the official Sapphire Technology webSitio web o contacte con su punto de compra. Conserve su comprobante de compra para reclamaciones de garantía.