Wireless problems can be tricky especially when they are intermittent. Since it seems to be specific to one computer, I’d look at factors like:

- How far the computer is from the AP.
- Does the other computer have problems in the same area as the MacBook?
- Are there many other APs nearby that could interfere? (Apartment building, close neighbors, etc)
- Are there sources of interference like cordless phones, microwaves and other 2.4Ghz devices?

If none of these apply, I’d begin looking at the laptop itself. Try booting from the OS X install DVD and see if the airport functions appropriately. If not, you may need either the antennae or airport card replaced.

Good Luck,
David

My Macbook has been having problems getting wireless signal. It sometimes gets it for a while and it works fine, but then it will suddenly disconnect. We have another mac in the house that doesn’t lose signal.

I reset the SMC but it didn’t help the problems.

Any ideas?

Thanks in advance

Sounds like your MacBook is having some power issues. It could be one of three things:

- The battery. (About $100 for a new one)
- The adapter. (About $80 for a new one)
- The MacBook’s internal parts. (Free if it’s warranty / Apple Care covered, expensive if not)

I’d recommend taking it in, as the Apple Service Center will have spare batteries and adapters to test with. Before you do, try the following:

1. Check and make sure it’s plugged in and the outlet is good.
2. If you are using the extended cord, make sure it is firmly attached to the adapter.
3. Check where you plug in the adapter on the computer – make sure it attaches properly.
4. Look for staples or other small metal objects that may get magnetically stuck in there and keep the adapter from working.
5. Check if there’s a Green / orange light on the side.
6. If the light goes on, take out the battery and see if the MacBook will turn on with only the adapter to power it.

If it runs without the battery, the adapter isn’t the problem. If it doesn’t – try another adapter. If it still doesn’t even with a known good adapter, it’s most likely the internal components.

Good Luck,
David

Thanks,
Sarah

As long as you shut down your Mac properly (By choosing Shut Down from the Apple Menu and waiting for it to turn off), resetting the SMC is safe for your data.

If your Mac is rejecting discs (they go in, spin for a bit and then it spits them back out) try another disc. If that one plays, it might be the disc.

However if all of your known good discs don’t play, it might need to be repaired.

Good Luck,
David

I am planning to do one as my MAC won’t accept disks…automatically rejects them.

Jeanette