Why do you say you can put more memory in some machines than Apple does?

Apple sets their maximum memory configuration based on the memory modules available at the time of the product's release. Apple does not typically revise this limit as compatible higher density modules become available after the release date. This is a safe policy to follow but it inevitably causes confusion when memory vendors and dealers (and Mactracker) state that a computer will hold more memory than Apple says it will.

Why do some of my Mac's specifications differ from what Mactracker says I should have?

Mactracker includes the base specifications along with any CTO (Configure to Order) options that are available from Apple. It does not include all possible upgrade options that you might have installed.

Why do you list different specs for some of the models that don't appear on Apple's main product spec pages?

Some of the configurations, such as for the iMac G5 (17-inch), are only available to educational institutions and are not available through normal retail channels hence their specifications are not always listed on Apple's main spec pages.

What is the difference between the model or family number on the back of an Apple product and the number on the suggested retail price list?

The model number is stamped on most products. This number is used for the Federal Communications Commission licensing in the United States. A marketing/order number (or finished goods number that frequently ends with LL/A or Z/A) describes not only the product itself, but also the shipping box, packaging material, manuals, and other items that may be contained in the box.

What is the "Support Status" specification referring to?

The Support Status specification indicates whether or not a particular model is currently supported by Apple for hardware service and support. Vintage products are those that have not been sold for more than 5 and less than 7 years ago. Obsolete products are those whose sales were discontinued more than 7 years ago. Apple discontinues all hardware service for obsolete products, with no exceptions. Service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products. More information: Obtaining service for your Apple product after an expired warranty

What serial numbers can I search with Mactracker?

Mactracker supports searching by 11 or 12 digit Apple serial numbers from Power Macintosh G3 to iMac (24-inch, M1, 2021). Apple has transitioned products introduced after, and including, the purple iPhone 12 to a new randomized alphanumeric format. You can search recent serial numbers on Apple's website.

How do I link to Mactracker from other apps?

You can create links that, when clicked, will open Mactracker and display the specified model. Simply open an info window and control-click on the model's name and select "Copy Link" from the menu that appears. This will place a link to this model into the Clipboard where it could be copied into a web page or email. The user clicking on the link will need to have Mactracker 4.1 (macOS) or Mactracker 4.0 (iOS) or later installed.

What is the checksum for the latest release?

The SHA-256 for Mactracker_8.0.1.zip is: f3e7a996666f5471075ff58fab4ec65f955ecf4e951e7e82488c9fa10dbd8dc4
If the hash on the file you downloaded does not match, the file may be corrupt or tampered with. Please delete any files that do not match.

Can I host Mactracker on my website?

No, to ensure only the latest version is available for download please link to my site, the Mac App Store, or the App Store.

How do I access entries in "My Models" on another Mac?

The best option is to enable iCloud Drive support. Alternatively you can export and import individual entries created by Mactracker version 6.0 and later.

• In the main window, select one or more entries, and then choose File > Export My Model...
• On the other Mac, choose File > Import My Model..., and select the file from step 1.

How do I backup Mactracker data?

By default, Mactracker stores entries in My Models, Smart Categories, Notes, and Color Labels on your Mac. If you enable iCloud Drive support, My Models will be stored in iCloud Drive. To backup the remaining data stored locally you can ensure Time Machine is backing up the database files or make a copy of the files manually. Please quit Mactracker before performing a manual backup or restore. The files are located in ~/Library/Application Support/Mactracker/ (non-Mac App Store release) or ~/Library/Containers/Mactracker/Data/Library/Application Support/ (Mac App Store release.)