In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, certain products stand out for their innovation and impact. One such product is the AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem, introduced by Apple on January 7, 2003. This revolutionary router redefined wireless networking, promising lightning-fast speeds, versatile connectivity, and robust security.
Apple’s AirPort Extreme marked a significant leap forward in wireless networking technology. Built on the ultra-fast 802.11g standard, it boasted speeds of up to 54 Mbps, nearly five times faster than its predecessors. Despite this speed increase, it remained fully compatible with existing 802.11b devices, ensuring seamless integration with millions of Wi-Fi-enabled devices worldwide.
The AirPort Extreme Base Station offered a host of features tailored to meet diverse networking needs. It supports up to 50 simultaneous users, making it suitable for both home and institutional environments. Additionally, its wireless bridging capability allowed users to extend network range effortlessly. The inclusion of a USB port facilitated printer sharing among multiple users, enhancing productivity and convenience.
Designed to cater to a wide range of networking requirements, the AirPort Extreme Base Station provides unmatched flexibility and power. With a second Ethernet port for fast LAN connections and support for DSL or cable modems, it addressed the needs of both residential and commercial users. Educational institutions benefited from specialized features such as software placement utilities and range-extending antennas, optimizing network performance and coverage.
Apple’s commitment to seamless integration was evident in the AirPort Extreme’s compatibility with Mac OS X 10.2 Jaguar. Leveraging Apple’s Rendezvous technology, it facilitated effortless device discovery and deployment within the Mac ecosystem. Furthermore, built-in security features such as Firewall and 128-bit encryption ensured data protection and peace of mind for users.
With a maximum speed of 54 Mbps and robust network coverage, the AirPort Extreme Base Station set a new standard for wireless performance. Its durable construction and reliable operation made it a preferred choice for users seeking a dependable networking solution. The inclusion of a built-in modem and external antenna further enhanced its versatility and reliability.
Upon its release, the AirPort Extreme Base Station was available through various channels, including the Apple Store and authorized resellers. Priced competitively at $249, it offered exceptional value for its feature set. The availability of additional configurations, such as models with built-in modems and antenna ports, catered to diverse user requirements.
Despite its popularity and acclaim, the AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem was discontinued on January 9, 2007. However, its legacy lives on, cherished by Apple enthusiasts and technology aficionados alike. The device continues to be sought after for its reliability, simplicity, and enduring performance.
Today, after 21 years since its introduction, the AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem remains a timeless classic in wireless networking. Its innovative design, advanced features, and seamless integration with the Mac ecosystem have left an indelible mark on the industry. As technology continues to evolve, the legacy of the AirPort Extreme Base Station serves as a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem Details
| Introduced | January 7, 2003 |
| Discontinued | January 9, 2007 |
| Model Number | A1034 |
| Order Number | M8799LL/A |
| Original Price | $249 |
| Weight | 1.65 Ibs. 748.42 Grams |
| Dimensions | 6.9″ D x 3.2″ H 17.52 cm D x 8.12 cm H |
Wireless Specs
| Wireless Data Range | Up to 54 Mbps |
| Range | 150 ft. / 50 m (11 Mbps) 50 ft. / 15 m (54 Mbps) |
| Compatibility | Wi-Fi (802.11b/g) |
| Frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| Radio Output Power | 15 dBm (nominal) |
| Security | WPA WPA2 WEP (40-bit or 128-bit encryption) |
| Capacity | 50 users |
| Supported Protocols | NAT DHCP FTP PPPoE VPN Passthrough (IPSec, PPTP, and L2TP) QuickTime Streaming DNS Proxy SNMP |
Connections
| Ports | 2 – RJ-45 1 – RJ-11 (Modem) 1 – USB 1 – External antenna connector |
| Storage | None |
| AirPlay | No |
| Power over Ethernet | No |
Further Reading and References
- AirPort Extreme Base Station (Modem): Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple Delivers AirPort Extreme 802.11g Wireless Networking – Apple Newsroom
- AirPort – Wikipedia
- AirPort Extreme – Wikipedia
- Apple AirPort Extreme Base Station 54Mbps – The Centre for Computing History
- Apple Airport Wireless Base Stations – Northern Arizona University
- Apple AirPort Extreme Model A1034 Repair – iFixit
- Apple upgrades AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi security – The Register
- Apple’s AirPort Extreme: What Happened to Apple’s Router? – MakeUseOf
Disclaimer: The data presented in this article is under continuous development and has been manually collected from various sources based on their availability. The author of this article may revise this dataset as additional research is conducted and reviewed. Please note that the information is provided “as is” and “as available” without express or implied warranties. The author cannot be held responsible for any omissions, inaccuracies, or errors in the published information. Any warranties relating to this information are hereby disclaimed.
Last updated: February 13, 2024
