03-20-2009, 09:02 AM

I'm a bit unfamiliar with some aspects of Apple Mac-Mini's.

I'm considering purchasing a used Mac-Mini...and I'm not sure if it comes with Airport already installed.

If it doesn't have Airport installed from the "factory"...can Airport be added later?

It's one of the original Mac-Mini's (G4 1.42 ghz).

Thanks,

- Nick

03-20-2009, 09:38 AM

Well...I did a bit of additional research on my end...and found out that...yes installing Airport into a Mac-Mini can be done...but it's pretty darn expensive!

Basically you need to purchase:

- airport card ($50.00)
- airport antenna ($34.00)
- mezzanine board ($43.00)
- 4 screws ($9.00)

So the parts add up to about $136 bucks (plus shipping)...a pretty pricey upgrade relative to the cost of a used mac-mini!!!

- Nick

03-20-2009, 10:03 AM

Ok here's a thought...maybe someone can help me with this.

Someone mentioned to me that there may be some sort of external wireless networking product that connects via USB that might work with a Mac-Mini.

Does anybody know if this is possible...and if so, do you know of any specific products that would work?

Thanks,

- Nick

03-20-2009, 12:03 PM

Ok...so I answered my own question again...using my favorite research tool "Google"!

I found a website that does sell USB based wireless network hardware that works with Macintosh computers.

The website is:

QuickerTek Wireless Mac Performance

Unfortunately...almost all of their USB wireless networking options all cost about the same or MORE than what it would cost for me to install Apple Airport hardware into a Mac-mini.

Ohh well!

- Nick

03-20-2009, 01:18 PM

Don't buy a non Intel based mac! There useless for compatibility.

03-20-2009, 02:50 PM

Originally Posted by dudeking

Don't buy a non Intel based mac! There useless for compatibility.

Considering that you don't know why I was considering purchasing this Mac-mini, or how much I would be paying for it...I'm not sure your statement is very helpful!

- Nick