I found the Airport Extreme Card at MegaMacs. Apple’s website and the accompanying documentation will inform you that this is an authorized service center install only. I am a tinkerer and I was confident that a WiFi card install could not be that complicated. There is a little more to this than snapping a card into a slot; so I thought a step by step tutorial could make this less daunting for other DIY inclined folks.

You will need an aptitude for computer hardware and the supplies listed in the picture below.

1. Turn off the Mac Pro and disconnect all cables. Your power cord should be disconnected from the outlet first, then the Mac. Move your Mac to a clean and well lit work area that is elevated to a comfortable height. Remove the side access panel by lifting the bottom of the release lever.

2. Lay the Mac down for easier access.

3. Remove hard drive bays 1 and 2 with the side access release lever still open. This will give you the space you need for the install.

4. Site the mounts for your card install under Bay 2 of the removed hard drive and note the motherboard label Airport.

5. Locate the two black wires that will connect to the Airport Extreme Card. One will be longer than the other. I found one under a ribbon on the side. Avoid the wire labeled “BT”.

6. Insert the card into the slot at an angle. There is a spring in the slot that is engaged when you press the other end down to the screw mounts.

7. There is a designed spring resistance in the slot. Gently press the card to align the screw holes in the card to the mounts below. Secure the card with the two screws in the kit. Just snug the screws so that the card has no play. Do not overly tighten the screws.

Your card is now seated and secured.

8. Attaching the wires to the card is the most difficult part of the process. It is imperative that the wire connection be properly aligned over top the snap connectors on the card. Very firmly snap the wire connectors to the card.

*note – you may find it necessary to attach the wires to the card before attaching it to the motherboard, so as not to risk too much pressure and break something.

The shorter wire should attach to the closer connection point (closest to the edge of the motherboard), leaving the longer wire for the furthest connection point.

9. Once your hardware installation is completed, it is a good idea to verify that the MacPro recognizes the new card. Click on About This Mac then More Info in the pop-up window.

10. Select Airport Card under the Network heading. Verify the MacPro recognized the Airport Extreme Card.

11. Configure your card by going to System Preferences > Network and following the steps. I used the automatic settings for a quick and easy set-up.

12. Check to see if you need to install the 802.11n Enabler.
Path: Applications > Utilities > Network Utility > Info Look at the different Network Interface options until you see the Wireless Network Adapter identified. If you do not see the n listed at the end of the wirless ID you will need to install the Enabler.

12. Install the 802.11n Enabler software from the accompanying disc in the kit or download it from Apple by clicking on the Enabler icon below.

13. Restart your computer and click the Airport: On.

Bravo! You’re online wireless via the Apple Airport Extreme Card nestled inside your Intel Mac Pro.

Note: The ESD wrist strap should be properly grounded and worn at all times your hands are directly or indirectly in contact with any electronic parts.

Article disclaimer: This article is provided for your enjoyment. I do not have any affiliation with Apple. The author does not assume any responsibility for loss or damages that may occur as a result of this article.

© 2009 Kenny Holloway All rights reserved.