Wireless_Devices

Wireless Devices

Airport Compatible Devices

Airport Extreme Base Station

I used to be a wireless bigot.
I just didn’t trust the devices, mostly because the base stations are so often linked to problems.

After I bought an iPhone 3Gs, wireless became a necessity to enhance the use of the iPhone, and keep service costs with the provider down.
So, after a bit of research, and not wishing to gamble, I bit the bullet and bought the Airport Extreme base station.

The Airport Extreme (Simultaneous Dual Band) Model A1301 (Early 2009) set up (hardware and software) in less than 10 minutes....probably more like 5 minutes.
Absolutely NO hassle. Install the software from the CD, connect power, connect to the DSL modem, run the Airport Utility and there it was....done.
The OS X Airport Utility walked me through setup with ease. I really was pleasantly surprised.....

Connections are fast, fast, fast!
Signal strength is fantastic, even in this 2 story house that is predominately steel and concrete.
WPA security provides peace of mind without hindrance.
AND, the guest networking feature is a real convenience!

I have not had a second of regret, nor a single issue, since buying this base station.

For more information, see Airport Extreme 802.11n Base Station

Airport Card

The Airport wireless is a modified PCMCIA card, enabling 802.11b standard wireless capability for G4 machines. The card provides for provides easy installation and seamless operation with Apple wireless base stations.

Pictured is the Airport card for machines sold in Japan.
Only the name is different.
Form and function are the same.

Airport compatible machines:
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1621

Bluetooth Devices

D-Link DBT-120

If one wishes to add Bluetooth capability to a G4, or even a G5, this little USB adapter is the ticket.
It works seamlessly with OS X software and Apple Bluetooth keyboards and Mighty Mouse.
I use one of these adapters on my media center QS via a Ratoc USb 2.0 PCI card and have experienced zero issues. This also includes no deep sleep issues.
This is a very good, very economical upgrade for anyone wishing to use Bluetooth.

With a G4, connect the D-Link adapter to a USB 2.0 PCI card.

One note regarding the D-Link DBT-120, is that rev. B2 or later is required for full compatibility.
Only with the oldest adapters (only old stock or available used) is it necessary to confirm revision.

How to Identify a D-Link DBT-120 (Rev B2) Adapter
D-Link DBT-120 USB Bluetooth Adapter

Apple Aluminum Wireless Keyboard

I have tried and used many keyboards, but this little BT beauty is one of my favorites.
The lack of a number keypad is a little inconvenient at times, but the comfort and response is wonderful.
Currently dedicated to use with my media center, it is quiet and provides convenience with OS X and media applications for music, photos and video.

Setup is a breeze, and in combination with the D-link BT adapter, control of media applications from across the room is infallible.

See the Apple Store website for more information.

RF devices

Keyspan RF Front Row Remote (ER-RF1)

This is a handy little device to have for a media center.
Intended for use with Front Row, I also use it for controlling iTunes once the application is open.

Just plug the RF USB adapter into any USB port, and the little remote works without a care.
Furniture, cabinets, children, dogs, etc. do not hamper the RF signal, unlike IR remotes.

The basic controls allow for remote control of the following functions:
Toggle back and forth between the Mac OS and Front Row
Scroll Front Row menus with up and down buttons
Put the computer to sleep, then wake it up again. Very handy!
Volume control
Play and pause
Skip forward or backward using a single click of the right or left arrows
Fast forward in three different speeds by holding down the right or left arrow keys.
Open and close the optical drive.
Mute the volume.

This is one device that follows the K.I.S.S. rule, and works as advertised.

See Tripp-Lite for more information.