[pixelsurge]

About a year ago I bought a Mac Mini, before the dual core Intel versions came out (sucks for me, I know). I meant for it to be mainly a web site testing computer, so I just got the most basic version, with no wireless card. I've had it directly connected to my cable modem in order to get Internet connectivity on it. But now, I would like to turn it into a multimedia station for my home, since I'm not getting much use out of it. I'd like to move it downstairs into my living room and hook it up to a 27-inch computer monitor that I use as my TV. I want to put all my music on it so I can play my music through the living room speakers connected to my TV, as well in my office through my wireless network.

I know that I need an Airport Extreme card in my Mac in order to connect it to an existing wireless network. What I don't know is if you can install an Airport Extreme card into an existing Mac Mini, since I know they're hard to get into. Is it possible, or am I SOL? Do I have any other options?

Thanks for any insight and advice you can offer,
Zoe

 

[davidanders]

Wireless is ALWAYS slower than wired - depends on the data to be sent whether there will be happiness.

You could buy the mini Airport and install, see Google "+mini +airport site:xlr8yourmac.com"
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&...ini++airport+site:xlr8yourmac.com&btnG=Search

You could buy a USB wireless unit. (assuming OSX drivers are available)
You could use an Apple Airport Express and connect it to the mini's ethernet port.
(Airport Express's fail regularly at 13 to 16 months due to bad components)
You could use a wireless router and connect it to the mini's ethernet port (confusing)

Deciding on a multimedia solution in late December 2006, when Steve is expected to announce breakthrough hardware on Jan 9th, may be ill advised.