

It's a misconception in all the fixes/instructions out there. Here are the specs: Processor: 2 GHz Intel Core i7 Memory: 4 GB 1333 MHz DDR3 Graphics: AMD Radeon HD 6490M 256 MB Software: OS X 10.9.5 (13F34)ĭisabling the ATI/AMD kernel extensions will not force the OS to switch to the Intel integrated graphics. The apple customer service says that they don't have an "official" procedure to disable the discrete graphics card.

I have installed gfxCardStatus v2.2.1 which shows that I am running on the discrete graphics card and there is no chance to switch to integrated one.Įven though I can see that the HD3000 Extension is loaded:ġ10 0 0xffffff7f837dc000 0圆2000 0圆2000 3000Graphics (8.2.4) Under "Settings > Monitor" shows that the computer is attached to an external monitor. I can't change the brightness of the screen, the color calibration is different. $ mv /Library/Extensions/AMD* /DisabledExtensions/Īfter that the Mac boot up in Mavericks but I have no graphic acceleration whatsoever, every animation is very slow. I have been able to access the system by running these commands in "Single User Mode": $ mkdir /DisabledExtensions Hopefully waiting for an Apple replacement program I want to disable the discrete graphics and enable only the Intel HD3000 chip in the i7. The active GPU will appear next to the Graphics.I have an early 2011 MacBook Pro that is affected by the well known problem on the graphics card (AMD 6490M 256MB).

If you want to check which graphics card your MacBook Pro is currently using, go to the Apple menu on your Mac and select About this Mac. Q: Which Graphics Card Is My MacBook Pro Using?

The graphics performance boost you get with an eGPU cannot be understated, especially for the 13-inch MacBook Pro models with integrated graphics.Īnd the best part is that you can unplug the eGPU and carry your MacBook with you to work or just about anywhere, something you can't do with a desktop PC. If your workflow requires apps that use Metal, OpenGL, and OpenCL, or you want to enable new gaming and VR experiences, an external GPU is definitely worth the investment.Īn eGPU can also help you connect additional monitors to your MacBook Pro, charge your Mac, add more ports, and use your MacBook while its display is closed (clamshell mode). However, the latest Macs with an Apple M1 chip do not yet support external GPUs. Apple introduced the eGPU technology at the 2017 WWDC, making it easier to accelerate the graphics performance of your MacBook Pro without upgrading to a new one. FAQ Q: Can You Use an External GPU With a MacBook Pro?Īny MacBook Pro with an Intel processor and Thunderbolt 3 ports can use an external GPU.
