PowerMacG5 Early 2005

The Power Macintosh G5/2.3 DP (PCI-X) featured a powerful dual-processor configuration, with two 2.3 GHz PowerPC 970fx (G5) CPUs. Each processor was complemented by an optimized AltiVec \"Velocity Engine\" vector processing unit and its own 512k level 2 on-chip cache. The machine was well-appointed from the factory, shipping with 512 MB of 400 MHz PC3200 DDR SDRAM, a spacious 250.0 GB Serial ATA hard drive (7200 RPM), and a 16X dual-layer \"SuperDrive\" (DVD+R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW). Graphics processing was handled by an ATI Radeon 9600 (AGP 8X Pro) video card equipped with 128 MB of DDR SDRAM.\n\nConnectivity was comprehensive, offering USB 2.0, FireWire \"400\" and \"800\", optical digital audio in/out, and integrated support for AirPort Extreme (802.11g) and Bluetooth 1.1. For video output, it provided two single-link DVI ports, moving away from the earlier Apple Display Connector (ADC). Crucially, this model retained support for the high-speed PCI-X expansion standard, setting it apart from the entry-level dual-processor model of its generation.\n\nFollowing the established design, this model was housed in the signature \"anodized aluminum alloy\" case. This enclosure was engineered for optimal thermal performance with four distinct cooling zones and nine computer-controlled fans. It also maintained the convenient removable side panel, which allowed for easy access to all internal components. A range of custom configurations was also available to buyers.

The Early 2005 Power Mac G5 2.3 DP (PCI-X) was highly regarded as a potent workstation, sitting comfortably as the middle child in its lineup between the 2.0 DP and the liquid-cooled 2.7 DP models. It was praised for delivering a substantial performance boost over the 2.0 GHz model, making it a compelling upgrade for professionals. Its performance in demanding applications was formidable, showing significant speed advantages over contemporary high-end PC workstations. A key advantage was its retention of PCI-X slots, providing essential high-speed expansion for specialized hardware, a feature absent in the baseline dual-processor model. Furthermore, it achieved this performance with a traditional air-cooling system, avoiding the potential reliability concerns associated with the liquid-cooling system of the top-tier 2.7 GHz model. This combination of raw power, professional-grade expandability, and proven cooling technology made the 2.3 DP model a popular and well-respected choice, often considered the 'sweet spot' for reliability and performance in its generation.