As technology advances, many users of older Mac Pro models are contemplating upgrades to newer operating systems like Sonoma or Sequoia. One such user, operating a Mac Pro 5,1 with dual X5690 processors and an RX 6600 XT, is weighing the potential of these updates. Despite upgrading the network card, other internal components are not essential for the new OS.

In an earlier attempt to install macOS Ventura, the system encountered a significant setback, failing to boot properly. The root of the problem seems to stem from the CPUs lacking the AVX instruction set, a critical requirement for the RX 6600 XT graphics drivers in this version of macOS and later releases.

Considering a change in graphics card, the user is contemplating an RX 580 or RX 590, but is apprehensive. The concern lies in the possibility of acquiring a second-hand card that was previously utilized for mining, which may result in system instability and performance issues.

The user also seeks clarity on the Radeon Pro WX 7100, a professional-grade graphics card, to determine whether it is fully supported. The hope is to find a suitable graphics solution that is compatible with the Mac Pro 5,1 while ensuring a seamless experience with the upcoming Sonoma or Sequoia operating systems.

Upgrading the Mac Pro involves a multifaceted approach to compatibility, especially concerning GPU choices, which can significantly impact performance and stability. Users must carefully evaluate the options available for both hardware and software compatibility, particularly as they aim to run modern operating systems on older machines.

Key Questions and Answers:

1. **What GPUs are compatible with the Mac Pro 5,1?** - The Mac Pro 5,1 can support several graphics cards, including the AMD Radeon RX 580, RX 590, and RX 5600 XT. Additionally, professional-grade options like the Radeon Pro WX 7100 and Vega cards can also be viable choices, provided power and compatibility requirements are met.

2. **How does the absence of AVX instruction support affect performance?** - The absence of AVX instructions means that newer software, including modern graphics drivers, may not function correctly on CPUs without this feature, leading to booting issues or diminished performance with certain GPUs.

3. **Is it safe to purchase used GPUs, particularly from mining rigs?** - While purchasing used GPUs can be cost-effective, cards used in mining may have been subjected to severe thermal and electrical stress, leading to potential reliability issues. It’s essential to verify the condition and history of the card before making a purchase.

Challenges and Controversies:

- **Driver Support:** One of the most significant challenges is the lack of support for certain graphics drivers on older Mac OS versions. As newer macOS versions are released, compatibility for legacy Macs decreases.

- **Performance Variability:** Users may find inconsistencies in performance between different GPUs due to varying levels of optimization for macOS. This can lead to frustration as expectations may not meet real-world results.

Advantages:

- **Improved Performance:** Upgrading to a newer GPU can significantly improve rendering times and overall performance, particularly in graphics-intensive applications.

- **Enhanced Features:** Newer graphics cards often support advanced features such as Metal, which can improve graphics performance and efficiency on macOS.

Disadvantages:

- **Compatibility Issues:** Users may encounter problems such as driver support and compatibility with legacy hardware when upgrading GPUs, leading to potential system instability.

- **Cost Considerations:** Upgrading to higher-end GPUs can involve a significant investment, particularly if opting for professional-grade graphics cards.

For more information on upgrading and compatibility, you can refer to these resources:- Apple Support- MacRumors- Igor's Lab