Wireless adapter solutions for MBP

[gumbyx84]

I've been having issues getting my MBP online on certain routers (NetGear in particular). I was told by a Apple rep that this is a known problem with no solution. As such, my only option is to get an external wireless adapter. I've been hunting around for a ExpressCard/34 adapter as I don't use mine, but haven't had much luck. I've only found a ., but cannot tell if it will work on a MBP. My only other option would be a USB Adapter, but again I can't seem to find one with OSX compatability. The closest I have found is this, but it only works with 10.5.x. Anyone know of any adapters (EXpressCard or USB) that would work, preferably on the cheap?

 

[vistadude]

Hmm that's strange. If this is true, I'd rather get a new router than an external wireless adapter so you don't need to use an addon card.

 

[gumbyx84]

I know it would be better to buy a new router, but I have this problem when I am out using random hotspots (coffee shop, library, etc.). Its getting to be such an annoyance that I just bring my Thinkpad with me when I go out just to avoid the annoyance of not being able to connect or "losing" the signal and getting disconnected.

 

[gumbyx84]

Bumping as I really need help with this. I'm having trouble finding USB wireless adapters what work with 10.6

 

[brentsg]

You might be blazing a trail. I think I have the same MBP and have yet to come across a wireless network I couldn't join, even with all my travels.

I'd revisit this with Apple.

 

[gumbyx84]

That is the issue. An Apple rep said this "happens from time to time" (paraphrase). The closest "real" Apple store is 30+ minutes away, so its a bit hard to get to. I should probably just go as my AppleCare expires soon, even though I don't think its the wireless card.

 

[SuperCachetes]

I shopped for a USB adapter for a project G3 a few years ago and remember that the Mac community didn't seem well-served AT ALL when it comes to these peripherals. There were hacks and homebrews going on out there, but I wasn't interested in fiddling with that on a trial-and-error basis.

I finally found a D-Link 802.11G unit that worked, and even then there was no mention of Mac on the packaging - I had to go download the drivers from the D-Link website.

Granted, this was for 10.4.11, but I wouldn't be surprised if things are still similar now. My suggestion would be to go scour the manufacturers' websites and see if you can pin down a 10.6.x driver. They may have it (Zyxel included) and just not advertise it.

That is, if you can't get Apple to fix what is normally touted as a pretty decent wireless setup to begin with. Good luck.

 

[kellen]

Here you go, works on mac per the site.

Link

Even on sale too.

 

[gumbyx84]

Might have found something

I might have found something. Randomly stumbled upon a cNET article about TrendNET going Mac Friendly. Seems TrendNET has been putting out OS X drivers for a number of there USB wireless adapters. They are not advertised as such, but if you go to their download page, you can find them easily. I'm going to do a bit more research on this and post what I find. From what I can tell, most of the N adapters are $30+.

 

[gumbyx84]

OS X compatible TRENDnet wireless adapters

Well these are the TRENDnet adapters that have OS X drivers. Unless otherwise listed, N is draft 2.0. Prices are from NewEgg

1. TEW-649UB ("True" N; 34.99)
2. TEW-648UB (24.78)
3. TEW-648UBM (29.99)
4. TEW-644UB (34.99)
5. TEW-624UB (Version B1.xR; 49.99)
6. TEW-664UB (41.24)

I actually found the TEW-649UB at MicroCenter going for $25 after rebate. If the Geniuses can't give me a straight answer or solution, I think I'll be picking this up. Not sure anyone will care, but if I get it, I'll post how it all works out.