macbook pro
I have been following this thread(Forgive me, I am new here and do not know how to reply to the existing thread):
Do MacBooks support NVMe SSD drives via the use of a Sintech adapter?
I have a MacBook Pro (Retina, Mid 2012) 2.6Ghz Intel Core i7, 16GB DDR3 with the GeForce GT 650M 1GB and it has the Apple SSD SM512E.
I am running macOS High Sierra 10.13.3 and I want to put a Samsung EVO 960 NVMe 2TB in it. Can I do that. All the data in the thread I linked to is 2013 Macbooks or newer.
The problem you are experiencing is an issue known by Apple. It is an issue that plagued the 2010 MacBook Pro models (especially the 15" versions).
The issue is called intermittent black screen or loss of video.
At one point in time they had a replacement program for the affect models. They have discontinued that and all 2010 models are now in Vintage mode.
Here's a link to the official Apple site talking about the problem.
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203554
I actually joined this site trying to find some recourse due to the fact that the product was defective and Apple knew about it.
This doesn't help, but it is the reason for your problem.
Answer to question 1-3:
1.SSD or RAM?
My suggestion is 512GB SSD and a memory upgrade.
2.5inch SSD that is used in an old MacBook cannot be used in a new MacBook. So 1TB is not necessary.
512GB SSD and RAM upgrade can ensure performance and avoid the choice between SSD or RAM.
2.RAM selection?
Since you already have a 4GB ram, adding another 8GB ram could work just fine. It is ok if you want 8GB * 2 as well.
RAM frequency could be 1333MHz or 1600MHz, no need to consider about compatibility.
Best Answer
No - you need a newer Mac to take advantage of the new storage connections and protocols.
This is well covered in the exhaustive post on what hardware has drivers and connections needed for NVMe to operate: