Can a Mac Pro 1.1 handle any gpu when it runs Windows?

Is a Mac Pro 1.1 (2006) capable of handling any GPU when it runs on Windows 8.1/10? I'm sorry for asking.

Don't be sorry for asking. How will you learn if you don't ask? On an unmodified Mac Pro 1.1 you will not be able to run Windows 8.1 or Windows 10. The reason has to do with the 32-bit EFI of the MP1.1. Both Windows OS need a 64-bit EFI. Apple did not change that until the MP 3.1.

As for any video card - Keep in mind that when you run windows you still are dealing with mac hardware which has a 32-bit EFI and your newer video cards will need a 64-bit EFI.

You don't say if you have made any modes but if not this article will explain how and offer ways you can get Windows 10 and El Capitan running. Keep in mind modifying needs to be done with great care.

http://macforums.com/threads/fyi-el-capitan-windows-10-64-bit-on-a-mac-pro-1-1-2006-working.6327/

Lisa

Hello Lisa,

Thanks for your reply, but I still don't get it. Correct me if I'm wrong: the MP1.1 has 64-bit hardware but an 32-bit EFI right? And if you update the MP1.1 to 2.1 as mentioned in that post you linked you can basically run Windows 64-bit without errors. I can't execute the last steps of putting the HDD in a desktop because I don't have one. Is that really necessary?

Roald

Nowhere as simple as that. You have to do the whole kext thing to get El Capitan OS X.11 on the Mac Pro. be very careful or you may end up witjh anm expensive door stop. This is why the Mac Pro 1.1 and 2.1 have plunged in resale value.

Unfortunately the Mac Pro 1.1 and 2.1 both have 32-bit EFI. And I have read everything from yes, you can upgrade the firmware to a 3.1 EFI to no you can't and do not go there, that way lies madness. I will be honest I would not be inclined to update the EFI. All the methods are chancy and might result in a dead mac.

The sad part is there is no real reason why Apple used a 32-bit EFI as the logicboard is basically the same as the 3.1.

I do suggest you head to MacRumors and check out the Mac Pro forum. There are several discussions on this very subject. Like this one:

http://forums.macrumors.com/threads/mac-pro-1-1-64-bit-efi-question.1321155/

Lisa