AirPort Extreme Was Updated With a 2.8x Power Boost

Apple's recent update to the AirPort Extreme has given it a 2.8x power boost when broadcasting 802.11n Wi-Fi in 40Mhz wide mode, according to an AppleInsider report.

The new device has a maximum output power of 392.64mW which is more than 2.8x greater than the 139.32mW maximum output of the previous model.

iFixit observed the difference when comparing the two FCC certifications for the old and new AirPort Extreme. Owner Luke Soules says its impossible to tell how big of a difference the added power will make without testing the device; however, he says it will "definitely increase signal strength and range."


Theoretically, and in a vacuum, a power increase of 2.8 would provide the same signal strength at 1.6 times the distance, he explained. But real-world usage will vary, and any performance boost could be minimal, perhaps explaining why Apple chose not to advertise the modifications.

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