What type of video system is provided by the Mac mini "Core"?

All Intel-based Mac mini "Core" models ship, or shipped, with "integrated graphics", specifically an "Intel GMA950 graphics processor with 64 MB of DDR2 SDRAM shared with main memory."

Apple reports that "minimum graphics memory usage is 80 MB" and "memory available to Mac OS X may vary depending on graphics needs." With 512 MB of RAM installed, 432 MB of system memory is available and with 1 GB of RAM installed, 944 MB of system memory is available.

What does "integrated graphics" mean?

In basic terms, "integrated graphics" is used to describe a video system that is "integrated" with another chip on the motherboard. This compares to "dedicated graphics" where the video system is provided by a chip separate from others on the motherboard or on a separate video card.

Integrated graphics cannot be upgraded and typically share system RAM.

Is the video on the Mac mini "Core" upgradable?

No. The "integrated graphics" processor used by the Mac mini "Core" cannot be upgraded. However, future firmware revisions might make it possible for the integrated graphics system to "borrow" additional RAM from the system and allocate it as "video memory".

What is the largest display the Mac mini "Core" will support? Does it support dual displays?

Apple reports that the Mac mini "Core" can support digital resolutions "up to 1920x1200" using DVI video output. This includes a single Apple 20" Cinema Display (2) or Apple 23" Cinema Display, or a third-party display of similar or smaller size. Apple notes that the system can support "coherent digital displays up to 154 MHz [and] noncoherent digital displays up to 135 MHz".

Using the included DVI-to-VGA adapter, the Mac mini "Core" can support any VGA display at a resolution up to 1920x1080.

Using an optional DVI-to-Video Adapter, the Mac mini "Core" also can "support S-video and composite video output to connect directly to a TV or projector".

For a list of compatible Apple displays, please refer to "Mac mini: Compatible Apple Displays" from the Apple Support Site. If a VGA display is dim when connected, please refer to "Reduced Brightness with Some VGA Displays and Mac mini" from the same site to begin troubleshooting.

Can I place a monitor on top of the Mac mini "Core"?

No. Placing a monitor on top of the Mac mini "Core" can restrict airflow and reduce the signal strength of AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth. If the monitor is a heavy VGA display, it might also damage the case. For information on appropriate positioning, please refer to "How to Position Your Mac mini" from the Apple Support Site.