Wireless adapter for iBook G3

G

g8501

Registered
I have an iBook G3 900 MHz with OS 10.3.9 without built-in wireless.

Does anyone have recommendations for an adapter that uses WPA security?

Long story:
Last year I bought a Belkin F5D6050 USB Adapter on ebay. I recently discovered that the driver uses WEP encryption, and most places use the more secure WPA. So the device is pretty much useless in most places.

Now I'm searching for a reliable adapter with drivers that work on OS 10.3.

Thanks.
 
earthsaver said:
Since finding an original AirPort Card can be tough and/or really expensive, there are other choices. Other World Computing will sell you a Newer Technology USB wifi adapter, for example, for under $40. OWC does also carry some stock of AirPort cards for about $50, but the signal and bandwidth may be significantly constrained.
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True, but I think lately they've been going down in price. I have two sitting around though if you want them, probably sell them for cheaper too.
 
Well I would say it would be in your best interest though.... As the computer is made for wireless and thus giving you better compatibility and signal strength. Luckily, with your iBook the installation is quite easy and not in need of unscrewing anything. You can see here.

There are some speed advantages to having those USB WIFI cards, but for normal surfing of the internet, it doesn't really make a difference. Plus I don't enjoy having things sticking out of my computer.
 
I don't recall; there may be some instructions right on the other side of the keyboard. However, I appreciate your reluctance to even go that distance. If you can spare a USB port or you have a powered hub, I agree that the dongle is the easier solution.
 
Sorry, wait just a second. One issue that may come up with a USB adapter altogether is that the ones on the market today are for USB 2.0 ports. Your iBook has the previous generation USB 1.1 ports. No doubt the product will connect to your Mac, however the speed may be unsatisfactory.

You'd be wise to contact OWC or Newer Tech before purchasing to ensure the product will work. Or, choosing the AirPort Card after all might be the better option.
 
earthsaver said:
Sorry, wait just a second. One issue that may come up with a USB adapter altogether is that the ones on the market today are for USB 2.0 ports. Your iBook has the previous generation USB 1.1 ports. No doubt the product will connect to your Mac, however the speed may be unsatisfactory.
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That's a good point, the System profile says usb speed is up to 12 Mb/sec.

(although when I did connect with the Belkin device the speeds seemed pretty good)
 
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g8501 said:
That's a good point, the System profile says usb speed is up to 12 Mb/sec.

(although when I did connect with the Belkin device the speeds seemed pretty good)
Click to expand...

Yep, that's USB 1.1. USB 2 goes at speeds of 480 Mb/sec. I ran into this problem wen I tried using a USB Bluetooth dongle on my PowerBook G3.
 
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