Airport Versions: Understanding Your Device's Compatibility

Apple's AirPort base stations, including AirPort Time Capsule, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Express, can be updated using AirPort Utility. However, some older models of the AirPort Express, such as the A1088, require AirPort Utility 5.6.1 to function, and newer versions of the software may not support them. This has led to some users seeking to collect older AirPort models for their functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Using the AirPort Utility

The AirPort Utility is a tool that can be used to set up and manage a Wi-Fi network and AirPort base stations. It is available on Mac, iPhone, and iPad devices.

To use AirPort Utility, ensure that your base station and device are connected to the internet. Open the AirPort Utility on your device and select your base station. If you have multiple base stations, restart your primary base station last. You may be prompted to enter the base station password.

For Mac devices, access the menu bar and choose "Base Station > Restart". For iPhone or iPad, tap the base station in AirPort Utility, then tap "Edit > Advanced > Restart Base Station".

It is important to note that different versions of AirPort Utility may be required for specific base stations. For example, to use the A1088 base station, AirPort Utility 5.6.1 is needed. This version can be downloaded from http://coreyjmahler.com/2013/10/24/airport-utility-5-6-1-on-os-x-10-9-mavericks/. When launched, it may offer to update, but it is recommended to decline the update as it may not be compatible with the A1088.

AirPort Utility can also be used to update the firmware on AirPort base stations, including AirPort Time Capsule, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Express Base Station.

Finding the model number

Check the Device Itself: Apple AirPort devices typically have the model number printed or engraved on the hardware itself. Look for a series of letters and numbers, such as "A1264" or "A1088". You may need to inspect the device closely, as the model number can be small and located in a discreet area.

Refer to the Original Packaging: If you still have the original box or packaging that came with your AirPort device, the model number may be listed on a label or in the product specifications section. This information is usually printed on the box or included in the documentation or manual.

Use the AirPort Utility: If you are using an AirPort Utility software application to manage your AirPort device, it may display the model number within the interface. The specific steps may vary depending on the version of AirPort Utility you are using. In some cases, you may need to launch a specific version, such as 5.6.1, to access the model number information.

Check System Information: If your AirPort device is currently connected to a computer, you can often find the model number by accessing the system information or device manager. On a Mac, for example, you can go to the Apple menu, select "About This Mac," and then click on "System Report." From there, you can navigate to the hardware section and locate the model number of your connected AirPort device.

Online Purchase History: If you purchased your Apple AirPort device online, you may be able to find the model number in your order history or invoice. Log into your account on the retailer's website or check your email for order confirmation or receipt. The model number is typically included in the product details.

It is important to note that the model number of your Apple AirPort device is different from the firmware version or software version that it may be running. The model number is a unique identifier for the hardware device itself, while the firmware or software version refers to the updatable operating system or programming of the device.

Using the MacTracker app

The MacTracker app is a useful tool for Apple users, providing detailed information on every Apple Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch ever made. This includes processor speed, memory, graphic cards, supported OS versions, price, storage, and expansion options.

To find out what Airport version you have, you can download the MacTracker app from the Mac App Store for macOS 10.12 (Sierra) and later, or the iOS App Store for iOS 13 and later. Once you have downloaded the app, you can follow these steps:

• Open the MacTracker app and allow it to scan your device.
• Navigate to the "Software" or "OS" section of the app.
• Look for "Airport" or "Airport Utility" in the list of installed software.
• The version number of the Airport software should be displayed next to the software name.

Additionally, MacTracker allows you to create links that, when clicked, will open and display a specified model. You can also use the app to identify your exact computer or iDevice, which can be helpful in times of need, such as for repairs, resales, or getting replacement parts.

The app is well-designed and contains a wealth of informative references for Apple products. It is also a great way to take a trip down memory lane and learn about the history of Apple innovations.

Locating the serial number

To locate the serial number of your Apple product, there are several methods you can try. Firstly, you can check the surface of your product for a printed serial number. The placement of the serial number varies depending on the device and its model. For instance, the serial number for Time Capsule and AirPort Extreme Base Stations (802.11ac) is located on the bottom of the device, whereas for the AirPort Express 802.11n (1st Generation), it is located on the side of the device next to the AC power plug.

If you are using a Mac, you can go to the Apple menu and select "About This Mac" to find the serial number. Alternatively, you can use a magnifying glass and a strong light source to examine the bottom of the device, as the serial number is usually printed in very tiny font.

Another method is to check the original packaging of your device. The serial number is typically listed on the barcode label attached to the package. Additionally, you can find the serial number on the original product receipt or invoice.

If you are trying to identify an AirPort Extreme wireless router, you can visit checkcoverage.apple.com and enter the serial number to determine if it is an AirPort Extreme or a Time Capsule, as they share a similar form factor.

Furthermore, if you are using a Mac, you can open AirPort Utility (Finder > Applications > Utilities > AirPort Utility) and hold down the Option key while double-clicking on the picture of the AirPort Extreme. This will display a "hidden" screen that provides information about the selected AirPort device, including the serial number.

Updating the firmware

To begin, ensure that your base station and device are connected to the internet. If your base station is performing a Time Machine backup or sharing a hard drive on your network, make sure none of your devices are using that drive. It is important to note that updating the base station will cause it and its network services to be temporarily unavailable.

Open the AirPort Utility and select your base station. If you have multiple base stations, restart your primary base station last. You may be prompted to enter the base station password. On Mac, the menu bar will offer the option to restart the base station, while on iPhone or iPad, you can tap "Edit," then "Advanced," and finally, "Restart Base Station."

After restarting your base station, select it again in the AirPort Utility to view its details. On Mac, an "Update" button will appear when an update is available. On iPhone or iPad, a numbered badge will be displayed next to "Version." Tap "Version," then follow the prompts to download and install the update. Your base station will automatically restart after the update is installed.

Repeat these steps for any additional base stations you may be using, always updating your primary base station last. For Mac computers with OS X Mountain Lion or Lion, use AirPort Utility 6.3.1. For computers with Snow Leopard or Leopard, use Airport Utility 5.6.1, which supports 802.11n models and the original AirPort Express.

Frequently asked questions