Happy New Year 2012!

Posted by tonymacx86 on Saturday, December 31, 2011

MultiBeast 4.2 Update

Posted by tonymacx86 on Wednesday, December 14, 2011
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Today MultiBeast was updated to version 4.2 for Lion. The latest version is now available at tonymacx86.com/downloads. 

Please do not upload or redistribute MultiBeast to any other sites. 

Full list of changes:
  • Added TRIM Enabler to Drivers & Bootloaders > Kexts & Enablers > Disk
  • Added AppleRTC Patch for CMOS Reset to Drivers & Bootloaders > Kexts & Enablers > Miscellaneous (Only needed for previous installs)
  • Updated Chimera to v1.7.0
  • Updated USB 3.0 kext to v1.0.8
  • Updated FakeSMC Plugins > AMD RADEON Plugin
  • Updated FakeSMC Plugins > NVIDIA Plugin
  • Added AppleRTC Patch for CMOS Reset to EasyBeast
  • Added AppleRTC Patch for CMOS Reset to UserDSDT
  • Added AppleRTC Patch for CMOS Reset to Extension Migration Tool
If this utility has helped you, please consider a contribution to support further MultiBeast development. Thanks in advance, and enjoy!  If you have Bug Reports or Feature Requests, please let us know in the MultiBeast section of the forum.

-tonymacx86 & MacMan
For discussions on this and other topics, register today at tonymacx86.com!

Chimera 1.7 Update

Posted by tonymacx86 on Tuesday, December 13, 2011
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Today MacMan updated Chimera to version 1.7. This version will be included in the next MultiBeast release.

Chimera v1.7.0 Changes:
  • Added support for additional ATI video cards. 
  • Added support for additional NVIDIA video cards.
  • Added additional cards to NVIDIA memory detection workaround.
  • Added change to allow overriding ATI Null frame buffer.
  • Back ported the following Chameleon commits:
    • r1671 Updated credits
    • r1674 Improved Multi-drive boot support from dmazar.
    • r1710 Fix for kernel flags not being passed to kernel on RAID volumes.
    NOTE: Proper drivers are required for full graphics support.
      There is a standalone installer, available at tonymacx86.com/downloads. For bug reporting, feature requests, and general feedback please use the Chimera forum.

      -tonymacx86 & MacMan

      Related Posts:
      MacManx86 Blog: Chimera 1.7.0 Change Log

      For discussions on this and other topics, register today at tonymacx86.com!

      tonymacx86 Public Service Announcement: Kernelcache

      Posted by tonymacx86 on Thursday, December 08, 2011
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      Music and animation by Adamsmasher. Enjoy!
      For discussions on this and other topics, register today at tonymacx86.com!

      Hackintoshing a Sandy Bridge Laptop: HP Probook 4530s

      Posted by tonymacx86 on Tuesday, December 06, 2011
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      People who know me know that I always recommend Apple laptops. I am convinced that they are the best laptops on the planet and worth every penny. However, a few weeks back, I picked up the HP Probook 4530s to review and monkey around with. This particular model has gathered a lot of steam on the forum, and considering the price ($475) and relative compatibility it seemed like a cool little project.

      Compared to building a custom desktop computer, hackintoshing a laptop is a dramatic undertaking, and can be a very painful process. It's not like building a computer from parts, choosing which compatible components you want or need. Only certain very specific models work well. Things like power management become more important because of the battery and using the lid to sleep the computer. For networking, having functional wifi is way more important than ethernet. And the keyboard and trackpad can be a nightmare.

      With the launch of Mac OS X Lion, Intel's onboard HD 3000 graphics, integrated into all Sandy Bridge mobile CPUs, became fully compatible. The only thing necessary to achieve full acceleration is a MacBook Pro 8,1 system definition. Therefore many more laptops now have functional Intel graphics, and are viable hackintosh candidates.
      Image
      HP ProBook 4530s XU015UT 


      15.6" LED Notebook 
      1366x768 native resolution
      2.1 GHz Intel Core i3-2310M Dual-Core Processor 
      4 GB DDR3 RAM
      320 GB Hard Drive
      DVD+/-RW SuperMulti DL LightScribe
      I went with the lowest end HP Probook 4530s XU015UT. It's unbelievable- everything works including wifi, audio, ethernet, sleep, two finger scrolling, media hotkeys, battery, dimming, card reader, bluetooth, and dvd drive. The keyboard is very mac-like with a copy of their signature "chicklet" style keys, and a full number pad. Combined with a flawless install via UniBeast, I set up everything in under an hour. Below is a picture of the Geekbench score, 4809, which bests a number of Intel Macs. (Primatelabs.ca)
      There are a few major drawbacks to this particular model, especially when compared with a Mac laptop. First, the display, although they advertise it as an LED, it's dim, and needs some warmup time. Even though it has a 15.6" screen, it's native resolution is only 1366x768. Compare that with the 15" MacBook Pro or 13" MacBook Air that each sport a 1440x900 IPS display. Secondly the trackpad, although functional with two finger scrolling, doesn't have three and four finger gestures, scrolling with inertia, or bounceback. In Lion this is a huge deal and permeates the entire user experience. The good news is the HP Probook 4530s can also be used as a desktop replacement, making these two issues somewhat avoidable. The HDMI video/audio output works marvelously well, and with a USB mouse and keyboard, the laptop pretty much turns into a Mac mini.

      The main reason people buy PC laptops to hackintosh is because of the perceived cost savings. On the surface the lowest end Probook is an incredible deal. Unfortunately, once sacrifices are made in multiple areas, the user ends up with a substandard product both in quality and experience. If you can live with the limitations, the Probook is a viable alternative. Although I have had fun with the HP Probook project, I still don't recommend buying any laptop for Mac OS X besides a real Mac. You can usually find a considerably discounted Mac on Apple.com in the refurbished section. Amazon and Newegg also have great prices on older Mac models at the time of refreshes.

      Special thanks to the community of HP Probook 4530s users, especially bkribbs, Electronshaper, BigDonkey, Dewitts and masso912. We've opened up a special subforum dedicated to the HP Probook 4530s complete with full installation guides and tools. It's incredible to see such dedication to a specialized project like this. Check it out!

      Let us know what other laptop models have worked for you!

      For discussions on this and other topics, register today at tonymacx86.com!

      UniBeast Demo: Mac OS X Lion Retail Installation Video

      Posted by tonymacx86 on Monday, December 05, 2011
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      Check out this full video demo by Beelzebozo demonstrating the UniBeast method for installing Mac OS X Lion.

      Related Posts:
      For discussions on this and other topics, register today at tonymacx86.com!

      Building a Sandy Bridge CustoMac: Buyer's Guide

      Posted by tonymacx86 on Friday, November 18, 2011
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      Building a custom computer for Mac OS X can be a very rewarding experience, When you choose compatible hardware, the results can be astonishing. Based on our research, all of the components listed in this guide are compatible with Mac OS X. Included are bare bones builds and individual items through which you can design your own custom rig. All builds are fully compatible with UniBeast, have pre-edited DSDTs available in our DSDT Database.

      CustoMac Mini 2011
      A lower power CustoMac mini-ITX build in a shoebox-sized case with integrated graphics and a dual-core CPU. Size and quietness makes it a great HTPC. Check out the full build post here.

      CPU Intel Core i3-2105 Amazon  Newegg
      Motherboard Gigabyte
      GA-H67N-USB3-B3      		  Amazon  Newegg
      		Alternate Motherboard Gigabyte
      GA-H61N-USB3      		  Amazon  Newegg
      		RAM CORSAIR 8GB DDR3 Amazon  Newegg 
      Case + Power Supply APEX MI-008 Mini-ITX  Amazon  Newegg

      CustoMac Budget Build
      A mATX midsized desktop build featuring budget-minded parts. Contains a dual-core CPU, mATX form factor, and integrated graphics.

      CPUIntel Core i3-2105Amazon  Newegg
      MotherboardGigabyte
      GA-Z68MA-D2H-B3      		Amazon  Newegg
       RAMCORSAIR 8GB DDR3Amazon  Newegg
      Case
      		Cooler Master 341 Amazon  Newegg
      		Power SupplyCorsair 430w Amazon  Newegg

      CustoMac Pro Builds
      These full sized ATX builds have quad-core CPUs, maxed out RAM, and lots of expandability. Well suited for any demanding uses. We've also included a high-end graphics card.

      CPUIntel Core i5-2500KAmazon  Newegg
      MotherboardGigabyte
      GA-Z68X-UD3H-B3      		Amazon  Newegg
      		Graphics Card
      AMD Radeon HD 6850
      		Amazon  Newegg
      Case Corsair Carbide Series 400RAmazon  Newegg
       RAM16GB Corsair 1600Mhz DDR3Amazon  Newegg 
      Power Supply
      		Corsair 650watt Amazon  Newegg

      This specialized high-end build features a mSATA slot on the board, which you can actually use as a system drive if you get a compatible mSATA SSD.

      CPUIntel Core i7-2600KAmazon  Newegg
      MotherboardGigabyte
      GA-Z68XP-UD3      		Amazon  Newegg
      		Graphics Card
      AMD Radeon HD 6870
      		 Amazon  Newegg
      		mSATA SSD
       60GB OCZ Nocti Series SATA 3Gb/s
      		Amazon  Newegg
      Case
      Corsair Carbide Series 400R
      		Amazon  Newegg
      		RAM16GB Corsair 1600Mhz DDR3Amazon  Newegg 
      Power Supply
      		Corsair 650watt Amazon  Newegg

      Operating System
      The world's most advanced operating system is available at a bargain price. Purchase Mac OS X Lion via the Mac App Store, Apple.com, or any retail Apple Store location.

       Mac OS X Lion ApplicationMac App Store
      		Mac OS X Lion USB Thumb DriveApple.com

      Graphics Cards
      One of the most important components in a custom build is the graphics card. If you're building a CustoMac, it's an especially tricky decision. Not only do you have to worry about what will be a good performer for the cost, but you also have to be informed what is fully supported, and what is not.

      The following graphics card examples are all natively compatible with Mac OS X Lion without modifying drivers. Each gives a range of port options, install compatibility, and are known to work with minimal configuration. They may not be the most powerful or newest cards available, however they are undoubtedly smart and safe options. Be sure to check case dimensions before purchasing, as some higher end cards are very long. Please note that older cards may not be available, and that standard layout, or "reference design" cards are most compatible. 


      Note: NVIDIA GeForce 4xx and 5xx cards will need the Combo OpenCL Enabler available in the latest MultiBeast. Details here.

      NVIDIA GeForce
      9400 GT      		Amazon  Newegg
      		 NVIDIA GeForce
      9500 GT      		Amazon  Newegg
      NVIDIA GeForce
      9600 GT      		Amazon
      		NVIDIA GeForce
      9800 GT
      (NO HDMI)      		Amazon
      		NVIDIA GeForce
      GT 210      		Amazon  Newegg
      		NVIDIA GeForce
      GT 220      		Amazon  Newegg
      NVIDIA GeForce
      GT 240      		Amazon  Newegg 
      		NVIDIA GeForce
      GTS 250
      (NO HDMI)      		Amazon  Newegg
      		NVIDIA GeForce
      GTX 260      		Amazon  Newegg
      NVIDIA GeForce
      GTX 275      		Amazon
      		NVIDIA GeForce
      GTX 285      		Amazon
      GeForce GT 430Amazon  Newegg
      		GeForce GTS 450Amazon  Newegg
      		GeForce GTX 460Amazon  Newegg
      		GeForce GTX 470Amazon  Newegg
      		GeForce GTX 480Amazon  Newegg 
      		GeForce GT 520Amazon  Newegg
      		GeForce GTX 550tiAmazon  Newegg
      		 GeForce GTX 560Amazon  Newegg
      		GeForce GTX 560tiAmazon  Newegg
      		GeForce GTX 570Amazon  Newegg
      		GeForce GTX 580Amazon  Newegg
      		NVIDIA 
      Quadro FX 4000
       for Mac      		Amazon 
      		NVIDIA
      Quadro FX 4800 
      for Mac      		Amazon 
      		 ATI Radeon 
      HD 5570      		Amazon  Newegg
      		 ATI Radeon 
      HD 5770       		 Newegg
      ATI Radeon 
      HD 5850       		Amazon
      ATI Radeon 
      HD 5870       		Amazon
      AMD Radeon 
      HD 6670       		Amazon
      AMD Radeon 
      HD 6850       		Amazon  Newegg
      AMD Radeon 
      HD 6870      		 Amazon  Newegg


      Motherboards
      These Socket 1155 Z68 motherboards are all good choices with compatible audio, networking, and a range of port options. 

      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68A-D3H-B3      		ATX, VGA, DVI, HDMI,
      USB 3.0      		Amazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68M-D2H      		mATX, VGA, DVI, HDMIAmazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68MA-D2H-B3      		mATX, VGA, DVI, HDMI,
      USB 3.0      		Amazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68MX-UD2H-B3      		mATX, VGA, DVI, HDMI, DP,
      USB 3.0, eSATA,       		Amazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68P-DS3      		ATX, HDMI, eSATAAmazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68X-UD3H-B3       		ATX,VGA, DVI, HDMI, DP,
      USB 3.0       		Amazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68X-UD7-B3      		ATX, No Onboard Video,
      USB 3.0, eSATA, 2x PCIe x16      		Amazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68XP-UD3      		ATX, HDMI,
      mSATA, USB 3.0, FireWire      		Amazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68XP-UD3-iSSD      		ATX, HDMI,
      mSATA + SSD,
      USB 3.0, FireWire      		Amazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
       GA-Z68XP-UD4
      		ATX, HDMI,
      USB 3.0, eSATA, FireWire       		Amazon  Newegg
      		Gigabyte
      GA-Z68XP-UD5      		ATX, HDMI
      USB 3.0, eSATA, FireWire       		Amazon  Newegg

      CPUs
      We recommend Sandy Bridge Socket 1155 CPUs with HD 3000 integrated graphics, even if getting a separate graphics card. 

      Intel Core i3-2105
      3.1Ghz      		2 Cores / 4 ThreadsAmazon  Newegg 
      Intel Core i3-2125
      3.3Ghz      		2 Cores / 4 ThreadsAmazon  Newegg
      Intel Core i5-2405S
      2.5Ghz      		4 Cores / 4 Threads, TurboAmazon  Newegg
      Intel Core i5-2500K
      3.3Ghz      		4 Cores / 4 Threads, Turbo
      Unlocked for Overclocking      		Amazon  Newegg
      Intel Core i7-2600K
      3.4Ghz      		4 Cores / 8 Threads, Turbo
      Unlocked for Overclocking      		Amazon  Newegg
      Intel Core i7-2700K
      3.5Ghz      		4 Cores / 8 Threads, Turbo
      Unlocked for Overclocking      		 Amazon  Newegg

      Drives
      Hard drives are unusually expensive right now, making SSDs a good bet for some users. If you have an older drive to use with your build, it would be wise to hold off for a month or two. Choose a 1TB or less hard drive if planning to use Chimera/Chameleon as your bootloader.

      500GBHitachi Deskstar
      SATA 3Gb/s      		Amazon  Newegg
      500GB
      Seagate Barracuda
      SATA 6Gb/s      		Amazon  Newegg
      1TBSeagate Barracuda
      SATA 6Gb/s      		Amazon  Newegg
      60GB Corsair Force Series 3
       SATA 6Gb/s      		 Amazon  Newegg
      120GB Corsair Force Series 3
       SATA 6Gb/s      		 Amazon  Newegg
      		240GB Corsair Force Series 3
       SATA 6Gb/s      		 Amazon  Newegg
      120GBOCZ Agility 3
      SATA 6Gb/s      		Amazon
      240GBOCZ Agility 3
      SATA 6Gb/s      		Amazon
      		8GBUSB Flash DriveAmazon  Newegg
      Optical 
      Drive      		 Sony Optiarc Amazon  Newegg

      Accessories
      		Apple Wired KeyboardAmazon
      Apple Wireless Keyboard
      		Amazon
      Apple Magic Trackpad
      		Amazon
      Apple Magic Mouse
      		Amazon
      Jabra A320S USB
      Bluetooth Adapter
      		Amazon
      Mini-PCIe to PCI-e Adapter
      (For Native Wifi Card)
      Broadcom Mini-PCIe Card Not Included
      		Amazon

      Remember, when building your own rig, it's easy to get frustrated- don't give up! There are users with similar specs in the tonymacx86 Forum to help you out if you get stuck. 

      Oh, and don't forget, if you end up buying anything, click through one of the links here. That way, you'll be supporting the site, as well as getting the best prices. Thanks in advance! 

      Good luck, and let us know how it goes!