Choosing an AirPort card
Because the card slots are different types, AirPort-capable computers use either the
AirPort Card or the
AirPort Extreme Card. The computer's listed specifications, as at the Apple Store, will name the card used. Computers described as "AirPort Extreme ready" accept the AirPort Extreme Card. Computers labeled as "AirPort ready" accept the AirPort Card. Both cards are available at
The Apple Store.
Joining an AirPort Extreme network
Any computer using the earlier AirPort Card can connect to an AirPort Extreme Base Station. Any third-party 802.11b wireless card or adapter that works with an earlier AirPort Base Station should also be able to connect to the AirPort Extreme Base Station.
Joining AirPort and third-party 802.11b networks
Any computer using an AirPort Extreme Card can connect to an earlier AirPort Base Station. The AirPort Extreme Card can connect to the same third-party 802.11b wireless access points that the earlier AirPort Card connects to.
Mixing clients on an AirPort Extreme network
When you mix 802.11b (AirPort) and 802.11g (AirPort Extreme) clients on an AirPort Extreme network, each type of client receives an appropriate data throughput rate. The 802.11g clients continue to receive data at a higher rate than 802.11b clients.