Apple fan wants to convince 'Cheesegreater' Mac Pro owners to spend $500 on a 'conversion kit' to 'replace the proprietary platform with standard upgradable PC hardware'

Apple enthusiast is proposing a $500 conversion kit to allow Mac Pro 7,1 owners to upgrade the proprietary hardware with standard PC components. The kit, known as the Cheesegrater conversion due to the Mac Pro's perforated aluminium design, replaces Apple's internal components while retaining the aluminium chassis, fans and front controls.

The conversion accommodates ATX motherboards, standard power supplies, and graphics cards up to 308mm long, with support for air coolers up to 140mm tall or liquid coolers with 240mm radiators. The kit also includes space for two 2.5 or 3.5 inch SATA storage drives and retains the original front fans through custom adapter boards.

Additional components include a mounting plate, drive sleds, drive cables, custom circuit boards, fasteners and an internal power cable. The conversion requires experienced builders to remove and replace the original components, connect wiring and ensure compatibility with the chosen PC components. The Kickstarter campaign, targeting $10,686, has raised only $7 from one backer with 28 days remaining.

Buyers should verify graphics card dimensions, cooling space and component compatibility before purchasing. The kit aims to allow owners to upgrade their Mac Pro without sacrificing its distinctive aluminium case. However, the campaign carries risks and backers should evaluate the details carefully before contributing.