In the ever-evolving landscape of wireless technology, certain innovations stand out as game-changers, setting new standards and redefining user experiences. Among these, Apple’s AirPort Extreme 2nd Generation, introduced on August 7, 2007, emerged as a beacon of cutting-edge functionality and unparalleled performance.
Apple’s foray into the realm of wireless networking was marked by the introduction of the AirPort Extreme series, with the 2nd Generation model taking center stage. From its debut in 2007 until its discontinuation on March 3, 2009, this powerhouse of a router left an indelible mark on the industry.
At a starting price of $179, the AirPort Extreme 2nd Generation was positioned as a premium offering, boasting an array of innovative features that set it apart from its contemporaries. Key among these was its Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000BASE-T) capability, facilitating blazing-fast speeds of up to 540 Mbps. Whether for streaming high-definition content, online gaming, or seamless data transfers, this router excelled in delivering top-tier performance.
Versatility was a hallmark of the AirPort Extreme 2nd Generation, accommodating various networking protocols including 802.11a/b/g and Draft-N. This ensured compatibility with a wide range of devices, enabling users to leverage its capabilities across diverse technological ecosystems. With three LAN ports and the ability to connect up to 50 devices simultaneously, the router provided unparalleled flexibility in managing network traffic and device connectivity.
One of the standout features of the AirPort Extreme 2nd Generation was the introduction of AirPort Disk. This groundbreaking functionality allowed users to transform a standard USB hard drive into a network-attached storage (NAS) device seamlessly. Whether operating on Mac OS X or Microsoft Windows, individuals could leverage this feature to centralize data storage and access files from multiple devices within their network. With the addition of a USB hub and printer, the AirPort Extreme emerged as a comprehensive networking solution catering to diverse user needs.
Despite being 16 years old, the AirPort Extreme 2nd Generation continues to enjoy a cult following and remains a timeless classic in the annals of wireless technology. Its innovative design, advanced performance capabilities, and user-friendly interface have endeared it to tech enthusiasts and Apple fans alike.
AirPort Extreme 2nd Generation Details
| Introduced | August 7, 2007 – 16 years ago |
| Discontinued | March 3, 2009 – 15 years ago |
| Time on the Market | 18 months (1 year) |
| Model Number | A1143 |
| Order Number | MB053LL/A |
| Original Price | $179 |
| Weight | 1.66 Ibs. 752 Grams |
| Dimensions | 1.3″ D x 6.5″ H x 6.5″ W 3.3 cm D x 16.51 cm H x 16.51 cm W |
Wireless Specs
| Wireless Data Range | 200 – 540 Mbps |
| Compatibility | Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g and draft 802.11n) |
| Frequency | 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz |
| Radio Output Power | 20 dBm (nominal) |
| Security | WPA WPA2 WEP (40-bit or 128-bit encryption) |
| Capacity | 50 users |
| MIMO Config | 3×3:2 |
| Supported Protocols | NAT DHCP PPPoE VPN Passthrough (IPSec, PPTP, and L2TP) DNS Proxy SNMP |
Connections
| Ports | 4 – Ethernet (10/100/1000BASE-T) 1 – USB |
| Storage | None |
| AirPlay | No |
| Power over Ethernet | No |
Further Reading and References
- AirPort Extreme 802.11n (2nd Generation): Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- AirPort Extreme – Wikipedia
- Apple AirPort Extreme (802.11n) – Review 2007 – PCMag UK
- Apple AirPort Extreme Base Station review – CNET
- Apple Airport Extreme review – Stuff
- Hands-on with Apple’s AirPort Extreme 802.11n Base Station – Engadget
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