AppleInsider StaffIn particular, the software update, labeled WWAN Support Update 1.0, delivers compatibility for Novatel's Merlin XU870 ExpressCard (HSDPA) available to Cingular Wireless subscribers.
For Sprint, the update provides compatibility with both the Novatel Wireless Merlin EX720 Express Card (EVDO Rev. A) and the Novatel Wireless Ovation U720 USB Modem (USB Adapter, EVDO Rev. A)
The Apple update also delivers support for three cards compatibile with the Verizon network, namely the Novatel XV620 ExpressCard (EVDO Rev. 0), Novatel V740 ExpressCard (EVDO Rev. A), and Novatel Wireless Ovation U720 (USB Adapter, EVDO Rev. A).
The 350KB updated is available only for Intel-based Macs running Mac OS X 10.4.8. Intel Mac owners can access the update via the Mac OS X Software Update mechanism or download it from Apple's support site.
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
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Malcolm Owen
11 Comments
I was wonder what that Express slot could have been used for
Watch out with this one if you use the Merlin XU870 card on a different network (e.g. in Europe).
The card stops working. When inserted the menubar icons start flashing.
SystemUIServer[520] failed to load Menu Extra: NSBundle </System/Library/CoreServices/Menu Extras/WWAN.menu> (loaded)
A warning from Apple would have been nice....
Reinstall of the 'original' driver doesn't help. What now...
I was intrigued by this service so I went to Cingular's site, and could barely find any information on it, and no pricing. How does one actually get WWAN?
Installation of the 10.4.8 combo update didn't help to get it working again. I'm affraid a complete system reinstall is necessery. Bad thing... :-(
I was wonder what that Express slot could have been used for
Part of it is "not much" because they only chose to offer the narrow slot, the wide slot offers a larger array of devices, and the standard is still fairly new.
There are some devices out there now, wireless "n" cards & Firewire 800 that would upgrade an original Macbook pro, though I can't tell if OS X supports them. There are also esata cards too.