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TICKET ARCHIVE -> Airport On a Slot Loading Imac Running Tiger

rborge - Aug 20, 2005 - 1:58 am

I have an iMac "500" (Indigo)...early to mid 2001 model as follows:

Machine Name: iMac
Machine Model: PowerMac4,1
CPU Type: PowerPC 750 (32.14)
Number Of CPUs: 1
CPU Speed: 500 MHz
L2 Cache (per CPU): 256 KB
Memory: 320 MB
Bus Speed: 100 MHz
Boot ROM Version: 4.1.9f1
Serial Number: RN1111PGKM3

I updated the Bios that noted above which I believe is the latest version. I then did a clean installation of Tiger and it works fine. I then installed an Airport card with adaptor. The computer seems to recognize the card:

AirPort Card Information:

Wireless Card Type: AirPort
Wireless Card Locale: USA
Wireless Card Firmware Version: 9.52
Current Wireless Network: wireless network not available

However, I can not log onto my network no matter what I try. My Powerbook has no problem at all. I have disabled all security on the wireless network to make it as easy as possibe without success. The card doesn't seem to see anything. Is the firmware on the card current? Any thoughts? Thanks.

Rick

DeltaMac - Aug 20, 2005 - 10:07 am

Hi Rick. my name is Dale, and I'll try to help.
Have you re-checked the antenna connector on the Airport card, making sure that is securely plugged in?
Have you tried reseating the card in its adapter, and checked for secure seating in the Airport slot?
Do you get the Airport icon in the top menu bar?
If you click on that icon, does it tell you that the Airport is turned ON? If not on, then turn it on there. Do you see the name of your network in the list when the Airport is turned on?
If you can't do any of this - open your System Preferences/Network pane, and click on the Airport tab. Can you see any networks there at all?
Have you tried the Airport Setup Assistant (in your Applications/Utilites folder. This utility may have the capability to update an older Airport card, but I'm not sure about that. I know it will take you through some steps to connect, and give you a clue about a fix if it doesn't work.
Same thing in the Network pref pane, where you can click on the Assist Me button, and start the diagnostics. Choose Airport connection when you see that.

Hope this helps you...
- Dale

rborge - Aug 20, 2005 - 10:38 am

The card was purchased as an OEM unit and is essentially locked into the adapter. I can't see how it could be any more secure in the adapter. I've taken the card out of the computer a number of times and it is very solidly placed in the computer (it "clicked" into place). The antennae is connected to a small hole on the card. I looked at the apple website and it appears to be the proper hole. I must say that its not the tightest connection although it is clearly attached. The airport card is turned on but no network is recognized (even my neighbors unsecured site that the powerbook can see). I have a linksys wireless router (wrt54gs) for whatever thats worth. All encryption is off and SSID broadcast is on so that I should be able to see it easily. It just seems as if the card is not working. Is there any way to run a diagnostic on the card? thanks.

Rick

DeltaMac - Aug 20, 2005 - 10:44 am

Yes, if you can locate the Apple Hardware Test CD that shipped originally with your iMac. You can run the diagnostic on that disk by booting to the disk. This doesn't tell you much except that it detects the card, but you already know the system detects the card.
I think you do not have the antenna attached securely. It should not be loose, and, in fact, should not be easy to move when inserted completely. There is only one connection point for that antenna.
The Airport card and its adapter can be taken apart. The card simply slides out.

- Dale

rborge - Aug 20, 2005 - 10:56 am

I should clarify loose. The connector is not falling out, however, it wobbles quite easily if I jiggle it. Would this be a problem with the cable (if so, can I get a new one and splice it in or replace it?) or the card? I will disassemble and reassemble the card/adaptor and see if this helps.

Rick

DeltaMac - Aug 20, 2005 - 11:02 am

You should get a really close look at the connector. The fit should be snug, and should not be loose or wobbly at all. The connector should press in pretty firmly - almost with a snap.

rborge - Aug 20, 2005 - 11:28 am

Well, you we're right . I had the antennae cable plugged into a hole at the top edge of the card. I didn't see the other (correct) hole in the middle of the card, recessed just a little--snap--everything works! Thank you VERY much.

Rick

DeltaMac - Aug 20, 2005 - 11:50 am

Glad to help - the newer (Airport Extreme) cards have the antenna hole offset, so I forgot to ask you about that.
Sometimes the simple things get you down - I'm glad you're working now

-Dale