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Xyrrus · Dec 20, 2006, 01:47 AM

I picked my Mac Pro up in store, so I didn't have the option to build to order wifi and bluetooth, and now I'm considering adding it. Has anyone had any luck finding the right parts for a self install? Or do I have to talk it in to the Apple store? If I take it in, anyone know what they're gonna charge me?

-Xy

ISOsceles · Dec 20, 2006, 04:53 AM

from what i was told, you actually now cannot get it installed...maybe its just the ********* apple store people around here, who are rich kids who can afford all their **** but dont know squat about it , dont know what the hell they are talking about! BUT if you find out anything otherwise you shoudl post it....im in the same boat as you

brokenjago · Dec 20, 2006, 05:23 AM

I highly doubt that Apple would actively prevent you from paying them money to install Airport and/or Bluetooth on (in? into?) your computer. From what I know, it simply costs $99 and the installation is free. Or part of the cost. I think.

I wouldn't know for sure, I ordered mine with both.

macmad · Dec 20, 2006, 08:44 AM

I think it depends on your region. I've heard of people having it fitted with no problem in the US, but in Germany Apple would not sell me the module. I ended up buying one from an Authorised Service Center (as a replacement, not an upgrade) and fitting it myself. It gets expensive though, I think its around $99/euros for the module plus (approx) 25 euro for each antenna.

Xyrrus · Dec 20, 2006, 12:55 PM

Originally Posted by macmad

I think it depends on your region. I've heard of people having it fitted with no problem in the US, but in Germany Apple would not sell me the module. I ended up buying one from an Authorised Service Center (as a replacement, not an upgrade) and fitting it myself. It gets expensive though, I think its around $99/euros for the module plus (approx) 25 euro for each antenna.

The antennas aren't already installed in the case? I remember the powerbooks had antennas in them regardless of if you ordered with or w/o a wifi card.

Seems like Apple is oddly mum on this issue, given that their base config does not include the two radios that are standard on every other mac out there. I'd also much prefer to just buy the kit and install it myself, rather than trudge through the mall with my Mac Pro. I'll probably wait until the new year for just that reason. I'm also curious about if the card supports 802.11n - My old b router is dying any I'm thinking about putting all the wireless stuff in my house on n.

-Xy

macmad · Dec 20, 2006, 01:11 PM

Originally Posted by Xyrrus

The antennas aren't already installed in the case? I remember the powerbooks had antennas in them regardless of if you ordered with or w/o a wifi card.

Nope, the antenna cables are installed, but not the antennae; which are plugged into sockets on the rear panel of the power mac. One for bluetooth (a short stubby thing), and one for airport (a small dipole on a stick). There are some good pictures here: ..:: Pomme Grenette - [English] Bluetooth installation in a PowerMac G5 ::..

Xyrrus · Dec 20, 2006, 01:49 PM

Originally Posted by macmad

Nope, the antenna cables are installed, but not the antennae; which are plugged into sockets on the rear panel of the power mac. One for bluetooth (a short stubby thing), and one for airport (a small dipole on a stick). There are some good pictures here: ..:: Pomme Grenette - [English] Bluetooth installation in a PowerMac G5 ::..

Ahh, of course. I've seen those before, and I know I have at least one kicking around at work. Well I'll stop by the Apple store on the way home and ask some questions.

-Xy

eatinwokout · Dec 20, 2006, 09:50 PM

I was told that the installation for Airport and BT would be better to do in store. Stores in this area will install it same day that you come in within 30-45 mins.

himself · Dec 21, 2006, 03:42 PM

Originally Posted by macmad

Nope, the antenna cables are installed, but not the antennae; which are plugged into sockets on the rear panel of the power mac. One for bluetooth (a short stubby thing), and one for airport (a small dipole on a stick). There are some good pictures here: ..:: Pomme Grenette - [English] Bluetooth installation in a PowerMac G5 ::..

Those external antennae were done away with on the Mac Pro, and the later G5 Powermac.

JBracy · Dec 22, 2006, 09:27 PM

I know that when the MacMini came out Wireless was optional as well. I was a Mac Genius at the time and the price of the wireless upgrade included installation - I think it was around $50, but it was a while ago so I can't be sure. I would check with your local Apple Store and see if they offer the upgrade.

eatinwokout · Dec 22, 2006, 11:22 PM

Charged $73 for the Airport & bluetooth installation + parts.