10/20, 2:40pm
Devices integrate new antenna design
Alongside the announcements of new Macs and the Magic Mouse, Apple on Tuesday quietly introduced updated AirPort Extreme and Time Capsule devices. Like its predecessor, the new AirPort Extreme base station utilizes the same dual-band communication on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. A redesigned antenna, however, is claimed to improve data speeds by up to 50 percent, while extending the effective range by 25 percent.
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08/12, 3:15pm
AirPort client update
Apple has posted a small but significant update to its AirPort client software for MacBooks and MacBook Pros. The new version fixes problems created by Mac OS X 10.5.8, which can potentially affect AirPort networking performance while a notebook is running on battery power. The update is 1.68MB, and can only be installed on 13-inch MacBooks launched between late 2007 and late 2008, 15-inch MacBook Pros from early 2008, and 17-inch MacBook Pros released any time last year.
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06/24, 12:30am
AirPort BS Firmware 7.4.2
Apple on Tuesday evening release an update to its software for its wireless router devices. The Time Capsule and AirPort Base Station Firmware Update 7.4.2 (with 802.11n support) fixes five specific problems, according to the company: (1) some problems with extending and maintaining connectivity with extended networks; (2) an issue with clients that enable 802.11 "Power Save;" (3) Fixes connectivity issues with some third-party devices; (4) an issue when the base station is configured for PPPoE; and (5) some Back To My Mac issues with connectivity and support for third-party routers. Apple recommends that AirPort Utility 5.4.2 or later be installed before upgrading to Firmware version 7.4.2 (including the version 5.4.2 for Windows).
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06/03, 5:30pm
AirPort 5.4.2 fixes bugs
Apple today released an update to its software for its line of branded wireless routers, including the AirPort Express Base Station, the AirPort Extreme Base Station, and Time Capsule. AirPort Utility 5.4.2 includes general fixes and compatibility updates for the following applications: AirPort Utility and AirPort Base Station Agent, Apple said. It also also installs AirPort Disk Utility on Macs running Tiger. An updated version for Windows PCs is also available.
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03/02, 6:00pm
FCC filing for AirPort
FCC filings indicate that Apple is set to release updated versions of its Time Capsule and AirPort Express 802.11n devices, according to AppleInsider. Testing documents show that the wireless routers could support simultaneous communication on the 2.4 GHz band and the 5 GHz band. The expanded capabilities would allow the base stations to work with 802.11b/g devices, such as the iPhone, while sending 802.11n signals to a computer or set-top box.
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02/17, 10:50am
Unwired Airport Express
A placeholder in Apple's Australian store shows an unannounced 'Unwired Airport Express Bundle' that carries a price of A$168 (~$109USD), according to AppleInsider. The listing does not provide any additional details, although the title suggests the package could include a modem or service from the Australian wireless-broadband carrier Unwired, which offers data connectivity without requiring a phone or dedicated line.
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12/15, 1:10pm
Mac OS X 10.5.6 update
As anticipated last week, Apple has posted its latest update to Mac OS X, v10.5.6. Available through the Software Update service or direct download, the patch consists mostly of dozens of fixes and performance enhancements, for issues such as sync and graphics. Sync reliability has been improved for Address Book, portable home directories and most notably MobileMe, which should now propagate contact, calendar and bookmark changes within a minute of their being saved.
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10/31, 6:55pm
DealNN: memory upgrades
Today's deals at DealNN include a range of products from bargain priced RAM and printers to digital cameras. First up is the Kingston ValuRAM 4GB (2 x 2GB) DDR2 SDRAM memory module kit priced at $34.99 after mail in rebate at Buy.com. Next up is the refurbished Epson Stylus CX4450 all-in-one color printer for $29, a price cut of $20 off the original price of $49.99 at J&R.com. The refurbished Kodak EasyShare C613 6.2MP digital camera is available at TIgerDirect.com for $59. For one day only (10/31/08) Newegg.com is offering the Griffin Amplifi 2.1 sound system for iPod for $78, a savings of 48% off their regular price of $149.99. Lastly, Apple's online store has the refurbished AirPort Express base station with 802.11n and AirTunes for $79.
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10/27, 10:55am
Second AirPort roaming fix
Only days after the 2008-003 update, Apple is now seeding a second software patch for its AirPort Extreme router through Software Update. The 2008-004 release once again targets a problem with Intel Macs running Mac OS X 10.5.5, in which people had issues with AirPort connections while roaming in large Wi-Fi networks. Apple has not said what the 004 iteration changes, but it is likely a fix to unexpected implementation errors.
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10/21, 5:35pm
AirPort Extreme roam fix
Apple has released a minor software update for its AirPort Extreme router, 2008-003. The update is a 2.2MB download, and is said to fix problems with AirPort connections when roaming within larger Wi-Fi networks. The code is specifically said to benefit owners of Intel Macs running Mac OS X 10.5.5.
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09/10, 11:35am
iTunes 8 & AirPort Express
Apple's newly-released iTunes 8 may be causing problems for owners of AirPort Express routers, complaints on Apple forums suggest. Accounts mention the software displaying error codes when trying to use the AirTunes option, used to stream music wirelessly to remote speakers. Once an Express is connected to distant speakers, iTunes normally allows users to pick a particular set of audio outputs.
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07/25, 10:45pm
AirPort Extreme 2008-002
Apple on Friday offered the AirPort Exteme Update 2008-002, which the company is recommending for all Intel-based Macs running Mac OS X 10.4.11 Tiger. The update notes that it improves overall reliability of AirPort connections between the computer and the Base Station, but also claims it resolves several compatibility issues with audio applications, such as GarageBand, Logic, and MainStage, among others.
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07/11, 11:10pm
Apple deals MacBook
Reconditioned MacBooks in multiple configurations are now available at Apple's online store. Two models in white with similar specifications are $949, they both have 1GB of memory and 120GB hard drives, one has a 2.1GHz processor and a Combo drive and the other has a 2.16GHz processor with 8x SuperDrive. A black 2.4GHz option can also be found with 2GB of memory and 250GB hard drive for $1,299. All MacBooks have 13 inch widescreen displays and include built-in iSight webcam, wireless, and Bluetooth.
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07/01, 12:00am
802.11n wireless firmware
Apple on Monday released an update to its 802.11n wireless AirPort products, including its wireless Time Capsule backup solution: The Time Capsule, AirPort Extreme and AirPort Express Base Station with 802.11n. The update says that Firmware 7.3.2 updates include bug fixes and that it requires AirPort Utility 5.3.2. AirPort Utility 5.3.2 -- both of which were released in early June and can be obtained via an automatic software update or as a manual download.
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06/11, 10:10pm
Airport Utility 5.3.2
Apple on Wednesday unveiled Airport Utility 5.3.2 for Leopard, Tiger, and Windows users, offering enhancements for users with an Airport Express or Extreme Base Station, or Time Capsule. As with most recent Apple updates, details are scarce. Since the update is a minor version release, it most likely contains bug fixes, operational optimizations, slightly improved features, and similar tweaks.
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05/28, 1:30pm
Mac OS X 10.5.3
Apple has posted Mac OS X 10.5.3 to Software Update. This relatively major release addresses a number of issues extant in previous editions of Mac OS X 10.5.x, including problems with AirPort, Time Capsule, Mail, iChat, iCal and more. With regard to general fixes, the update a font issue that could result in Helvetica Narrow being used in applications instead of Helvetica and also addresses an issue with stuttering video and audio playback in certain USB devices. It also fixes an issue in which certain attached hard drives may not show up in the Finder.
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04/05, 2:55pm
MacWireless antennas
MacWireless recently unveiled several new antennas and boosters for Apple's Time Capsule, offering users increased range control in a variety of forms. The antennas are available in a number of types: omni-directional, uni-directional, 90-degree corner, ceiling mounted, whip, and MIMO. The antennas are passive focusing systems since they do not use power to operate, and are available from MacWireless, ranging from $6 to $60, depending on the style of antenna.
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03/27, 11:25pm
Mac Pro Tiger Airport
Apple today unveiled two updates, one for its Airport drivers under Mac OS X 10.4.x Tiger, and a firmware update for the Mac Pro (Early 2008), bringing the firmware to version 1.3. The AirPort Extreme Update 2008-001 for Tiger is recommended for all users with Intel-based Macs equipped with Tiger, and is said to enhance the reliability of AirPort connections. The update is 1.3MB, and is available from Software Update, as well as Apple's support page.
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03/26, 10:15pm
Garmin GPSMAP 495
Garmin today unveiled the GPSMAP 495, a feature-rich trimmed down version of the GPSMAP 496, providing pilots with SafeTaxi airport diagrams, Smart Airspace, AOPA Airport directory data, and several other features. Garmin bills the device as an intermediary model to the 296 and 496, combining features from the 496 but maintaining a price close to the 296. Garmin is currently selling the GPSMAP 495 for $1600, and will be shipping in early April.
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03/22, 4:25pm
Airport Extreme backup
On March 19th, Apple released a nonspecific update regarding its Airport ecosystem and Time Machine – simply stating optimizations and driver fixes – but it is revealed to allow Time Capsule-like functionality with standard Airport Extreme Base Stations. According to Macworld, the update allows users to back up using Time Machine to a standard USB hard drive that is connected to an Airport Extreme Base Station.
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03/19, 5:20pm
Apple updates Time Machine
Apple today released a combination update for Time Machine, bundling with it Airport driver fixes. What the update actually fixes is unclear, simply stating "This update is recommended for all users and includes compatibility improvements for using Time Machine with Time Capsule, as well as AirPort driver fixes." The update is available through Software Update under the Apple menu, but Apple has not released its typical accompanying web pages on its support site.
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03/17, 5:45pm
QuickerTek Antenna Array
QuickerTek today unveiled the Time Capsule Antenna Array, a 3dBi tri-antenna which can be positioned anywhere to improve broadcast range and speed. The company advertises that the antenna boosts broadcast depth by up to 50-percent, allowing users to backup from a more distant location. The kit is available for both the 500GB and 1TB versions of Time Capsule, starting at $130 for a self-install kit, or $200 as installed by QuickerTek.
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03/17, 9:00am
AP Express adds 802.11n
Confirming some earlier rumors, Apple has officially updated the AirPort Express Base Station with 802.11n Wi-Fi. The technology is claimed to be as much as five times faster than the 802.11g used on the previous generation of AirPort, with twice the range. The update compliments 802.11n upgrades to other Apple products, including the AirPort Extreme router and its most recent Mac computers.
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03/11, 5:30pm
Apple BaseStation software
Apple on Tuesday issued an update to its BaseStation software for its wireless devices, including the AirPort Express Base Station, AirPort Extreme Base Station, and its recently introduced Time Capsule backup device (see our First Look). The update, which first appeared as "AirPort Base Station Update 2008-001" via the Software Update, includes general fixes and compatibility updates for AirPort Utility, AirPort Disk Utility, and AirPort Base Station Agent; however, it is now available as AirPort Utility v5.3.1 and is described by Apple as "the setup and management utility" offering a variety of options for each device. The 8.8MB update is available for both Tiger and Leopard (and Windows).
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03/10, 12:00pm
MacBook Air confusing
The MacBook Air's thin design is causing some confusion for the technically ignorant, according to one blogger who says that the ultra-portable caused him to miss his flight. When going through the TSA airport security checkpoint, blogger Michael Nygard was held up as security staff gathered around his MacBook Air, trying to make sense of the slender laptop. One of the less technically knowledgeable staff points out the lack of standard features as cause for alarm.
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02/20, 2:10pm
Airfoil 3.1
Rogue Amoeba has announced Airfoil 3.1, a new release of its AirPort Express extender for Mac OS X. This version includes complete support for sending audio to the Apple TV and Airfoil Speakers for Windows. The Take 2 update from Apple enables the Apple TV to appear as an AirTunes device, just like an AirPort Express, meaning iTunes can send audio to it. Now Airfoil opens the device up to receiving any audio. It can stream media players like QuickTime Player or Realplayer to web-based content like Pandora, Last.fm, Sirius or XM,
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02/19, 10:05am
QuickerTek Dualy Extreme
QuickerTek today unveiled the Dualy Extreme, a range extender for the Airport Extreme Base Station, which can help the device broadcast up to five times the standard wireless range. The Dualy Extreme features twin 3dBi antennas, coupled with either two 500mW receivers or two 1W receivers. When upgraded, the Base Station uses the full 2.4GHz range with high-speed MIMO capability. The Dualy Extreme is available starting from $350 for the user-installed, 500mW kit, with the 1W kit selling for $500.
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12/26, 9:20am
Airport Ext. off UK store
The Airport Extreme base station has been temporarily removed from sale at Apple UK's online storefront, checks show. While still listed under wireless accessories, the Extreme's status has been changed to "not available," and accordingly no price is mentioned either. The disappearance is also apparently unique to the UK, as the American, Canadian and French online stores still have the wireless router in stock. No official explanation has been issued.
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12/21, 12:00pm
Quicky gets tougher case
QuickerTek has announced that its Quicky Mac wireless booster is now shipping with a stronger case, answering customer requests to make the device more rugged. The Quicky expands the wireless reception of any MacBook, iBook, or PowerBook from Apple's built-in 30mW AirPort card to 500mW. The device is priced at $225 and comes with a 1-year warranty on parts and labor.
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11/28, 7:30pm
Leopard issues loom
A month has passed since Apple introduced Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard, and the upgrade still has several problems to address despite an early patch that fixed numerous others. Time Machine and AirPort Extreme connectivity issues remain unsolved, even as Time Machine and Aperture data corruption plague Leopard users alongside windows that seem to vanish when using the new 'Spaces' feature. Failed installation attempts resulting from partitioning issues also still stand, as well as the potential for forced reinstalls after attempting to use Migration Assistant to recover data from a cloned disk backup using a utility called 'SuperDuper.'
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11/26, 7:20pm
Leopard network problems
Some users are experiencing less-than-satisfactory network performance since their upgrade to Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard, or from the 10.5.1 update, and are seeking help on Apple's forums (1 | 2 | 3 | 4). The reports vary in circumstance, with some users having troubles on third-party network equipment while others that use the same hardware deny having any issues. Most of the complaints revolve around poor network reception, low speed, and a high ping rate – a type of network command that displays network latency in milliseconds. Most users with the problem seem to believe that it is a problem related to DNS entries, and some are turning to DNS hosting services such as OpenDNS.com.
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