Manage updates with the Download AppApple Time Capsule (500GB)
Manufacturer: Apple Part number: MB276LL/A
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- Apple's hybrid 802.11n wireless router/networked hard drive offers some powerful data backup features for Mac owners, as well as Apple's typical pleasing design. Windows users and anyone who demands speed from their 802.11n network will be disappointed.
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CNET editors' review
Apple Time Capsule (500GB) price range: $229.99 - $262.33
- Reviewed by: Rich Brown
- Reviewed on: 03/04/2008
The good: Clean design; good deal for Draft-N router and 500GB or 1TB of storage; low maintenance data backup for Mac users; extensibility via USB port.
The bad: Only average networking performance; few advanced storage features beyond backup capabilities, and those only for Mac users.
The bottom line: Apple's hybrid 802.11n wireless router/networked hard drive offers some powerful data backup features for Mac owners, as well as Apple's typical pleasing design. Windows users and anyone who demands speed from their 802.11n network will be disappointed.
User reviews
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Simple, elegant design, easy setup, meets the needs of a lazy user.
by Mycroft Jr. on March 5, 2008
Pros: Fast setup (less than 10 minutes), quiet, backup serves multiple computers without difficulty, no bricks, less cords.
Cons: Runs hot, inherently slower transfer speeds due to wireless networking.
Summary: As an OS10.5 user I've found that the TC 500gb performs its three functions without hassle: printer sharing, N network, and remote backups of multiple computers.
The most ...Summary: As an OS10.5 user I've found that the TC 500gb performs its three functions without hassle: printer sharing, N network, and remote backups of multiple computers.
The most important feature in my opinion is the out-of-sight-out-of-mind backup. Two weeks ago I lost 2 years of files. I paid the price for being too lazy and too forgetful. Now, I have something that'll be thinking about backups for me.
Another nice feature was the consolidation of the three separate devices that formed my office backup & network: I had a wireless print server, external backup, and router. Now I use only one plug with no brick or wallwart (which all three other devices had).
The limitations are of course what is to be expected when using a wireless network and an Apple device. Range, speed of file transfer, as well lack of user serviceability.6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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cant repair hard drive it something happens to it
by modogg10 on August 28, 2008
Pros: easy to use and install
Cons: if anything happens to the hdd, there is no way to trouble shoot.
Summary: since apple will only replace the unit but is not responsible for data loss, i dont recommend this for back ups. its very unreliable. it failed exactly a month after ...
Summary: since apple will only replace the unit but is not responsible for data loss, i dont recommend this for back ups. its very unreliable. it failed exactly a month after purchase. i lost 500gb on my 1tb time capsule. catch 22 is if you open it to extract the hard drive, you void the warranty. and it will cost you twice as much as the unit to get your data at a data recovery specialist.
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Good product with some bugs
by jmar198 on March 5, 2008
Pros: Fast wifi connection, easy file sharing, easy NAT setup
Cons: Gets real HOT, Compatibility issue with the Xbox 360, Initial setup can be hard
Summary: The Good:
Connects easily with both apple and windows based laptops.
Fast connection when using both g and n wifi modes.
Easy to setup NAT for port forwarding.
Easy to ...Summary: The Good:
Connects easily with both apple and windows based laptops.
Fast connection when using both g and n wifi modes.
Easy to setup NAT for port forwarding.
Easy to share MP3s via Itunes. I know the cnet review said they had trouble, what I did was simply put the mp3s on the Time Capsule hard drive. I then went into Itunes and redirected where to find the mp3s, I did this for my computer running MAC OSX and my girlfriend running Vista and it worked with no problem.
Wifi compatible with Nintendo Wii.
The Bad:
It gets HOT!!!!! I’m not sure if the disk ever stops spinning even when it is not be accessed. But be careful I check mine every day and as soon summer hits
Initial setup can be hard; I actually had to call apple tech support 4 times to finally get it setup correctly.
No wifi compatibility with Xbox 360 only via cable.
Overall:
It is a good product that will probably need a firmware update to do something about how hot it gets.
The hard drive works great and the music that streams from it into Itunes is perfect with no degradation or lag.
Defiantly a product for those who are a little tech savvy.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Apple does great
by ramenoodles on March 4, 2008
Pros: Saves space and can use Time Capsule for MULTIPLE Macs. Saves on the many external HDD needed for a few Macs
Cons: Does get hot when a lot is transferred
Summary: I don't get why a con by the reviewer is advance features are only for Mac users. Did you expect PC's to have some advance back up program? ...
Summary: I don't get why a con by the reviewer is advance features are only for Mac users. Did you expect PC's to have some advance back up program? Apple actually designed a program along with the OS X for people to actually back up their computer. I know that the majority of computer users, both Mac and PC, do not regularly back up. Since Time Machine came out, a lot more Mac users I know back things up.
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Smooth, Easy, Awesome
by eddiekari84 on September 24, 2008
Pros: Plenty of Storage
Mac Users brainless backup, and if need be a external hard drive
open to multiple computers, for everyone living in the houseCons: Options seem limited, but then again it's a wireless hard drive what more would you do with it
Summary: As a mac user, Time Capsule Coupled with Time Machine, it is an elegant, smooth, and easy way to be confident that your data is backed up and having the ...
Summary: As a mac user, Time Capsule Coupled with Time Machine, it is an elegant, smooth, and easy way to be confident that your data is backed up and having the option of an external hard drive that doesn't need a USB is great
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Honestly, there isn't really a peer product...
by quitifa on August 13, 2008
Pros: Very easy setup, compact design, seamless intergration with Macs
Cons: Very slow intial backup, printer may print slowly
Summary: First of all, I just wanted to say that I think this product is well worth the price. If I had purchased a 500GB hard drive AND a wireless router ...
Summary: First of all, I just wanted to say that I think this product is well worth the price. If I had purchased a 500GB hard drive AND a wireless router AND a wireless adapter for my printer, the prices would have been almost the same...but the Time Capsule is compact and convenient.
So, I would really recommend it. That being said, there is always a wish list that could improve ANY product. For the Time Capsule that would be:
*OPTIONAL wired backup (especially for the first backup)
*Printer will sometimes take a while to print
*For the money/functionality, it's not that hard to include an audio option (AirTunes)
*The unit can get a little hot sometimes
That's about it. For sure though, there the versatility and ease of this product are incomparable, especially with use alongside Time Machine on an a Mac. Plus, students get a discount on it and the AppleCare Warranty covers the Time Capsule!
Highly recommended.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Operates as designed - Easy Set-up
by ErrorAlreadyInUse on October 6, 2008
Pros: Love this thing. I use it as a wireless router for my mobile laptops, hardwired my two iMacs, Time Machine works seamlessly with it for both computers.
Cons: I don't know - it works. If it dies, that would, you know - be a 'con.' It does get hot, but I assume if I don't store it on a pillow or under a quilt, I'll be okay. Speed seems fine, though I do have it hooked up via cables because, well, I can.
Summary: Look, if you're a techy guy that laments you can't hook-up 10 computers with 4 different Windows versions, Linux and 3 generations of Apple products - maybe not ...
Summary: Look, if you're a techy guy that laments you can't hook-up 10 computers with 4 different Windows versions, Linux and 3 generations of Apple products - maybe not for you. If you're the average guy that wants one device for storage, printer/scanner access, wireless and backup - this is slick. Finally have a product that answered all my concerns. I'm not a networking geek and all these functions could presumably be done via Windows and some hardware. Apple makes it simple and seamless. I did make a reservation and trip to see one of the Apple Geniuses at the mall - very helpful. Like everything Apple, it just looks sexy too. I can create a common folder on it for sharing files and I finally have my ip4000r Canon printer hooked up and networked for all via ethernet. The USB port also allows you to hookup multiple other devices, including additional hard drives. For that reason, I bought the 500gb figuring I can add storage cheaper and independently via USB. Also adds a possible layer of redundancy.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great backup/router device! Apple.. keep the great products coming!
by mohanman on July 1, 2008
Pros: Easy backup, time capsule is a great, user friendly interface.. quiet... works!
Cons: Slow router, doesn't have good qos like other routers (dlink)
Summary: I bought this based on reviews for backup purposes. its amazing. Simple, elegant, works, quiet, awesome interface.. apple just keeps coming out with great products. I wish the router could ...
Summary: I bought this based on reviews for backup purposes. its amazing. Simple, elegant, works, quiet, awesome interface.. apple just keeps coming out with great products. I wish the router could handle multiple streams better, but that could be fixed with a firmware update. no matter what the issues are, however, it still gets the job done. No more windows crashing! Things are smooth salin'!
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A 10 for me
by BobBobBobBobBobBobBob on March 24, 2008
Pros: Works great with OSX
Cons: No cons if you're a OSX user
Summary: This is a wireless N router and a NAS drive for the same price as a NAS only. *** is that CNet reviewer smoking? This is by far faster than the ...
Summary: This is a wireless N router and a NAS drive for the same price as a NAS only. *** is that CNet reviewer smoking? This is by far faster than the NAS only 500gb and dlink wireless g I'm replacing. I don't usually back my data as frequently as I should, now, I'm backing up everyday and feel so good that my data is secure. If laziness is being smart ( as one reviewer twists), then call me lazy :P
The reviewer gave it low points because the advanced features are for OSX Leopard users only?? Review it as a any Mac product then give it a plus for making it compatible for windows users. Anyway if you use windows, then you deserve what you get.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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I like this solution, a lot!
by edjemusic on March 4, 2008
Pros: USB for printer sharing, Airport Utility for Windows VISTA
Cons: None yet...
Summary: The Apple Time Capsule is a virtual back up, set & forget solution I have been wanting for some time. I ordered this with my new MacBook Pro 2.4 ...
Summary: The Apple Time Capsule is a virtual back up, set & forget solution I have been wanting for some time. I ordered this with my new MacBook Pro 2.4 processor. Its schweet.
Peace,
Ed1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Apple
- Part number: MB276LL/A
- Description: Back up a lifetime's worth of memories with the all-new Time Capsule, a wireless hard drive that works seamlessly with Time Machine in Mac OS X Leopard. It's also a full-featured 802.11n Wi-Fi base station. Time Capsule works automatically with Time Machine in Mac OS X Leopard to create the perfect no-hassle backup solution. There are no cables, so you can back up all the computers in your home to a central location. The massive server-grade hard drive gives you all the capacity and safety you need for backing up all your Macs. Connect your DSL or cable modem to Time Capsule and quickly create a new wireless network - or extend an existing AirPort-based network - using the easy-to-use AirPort Utility for Mac and PC. Time Capsule uses next-generation 802.11n wireless technology to deliver up to five times the performance and up to twice the range of 802.11g wireless networks. Time Capsule also works great as a wireless hard drive whether you have a Mac or PC. It sets up in a snap, giving you a networked hard drive you can use for storing and sharing any kinds of files. Print documents, photos, and more from any room in the home or office to a central printer connected to Time Capsule via USB. Protect yourself with the built-in firewall and industry-standard encryption technologies including WPA/WPA2 and 128-bit WEP. Time Capsule works flawlessly with Apple TV, iPhone, iPod touch, and all your other Wi-Fi devices that use the 802.11a/b/g and 802.11n draft 2.0 wireless standards.
General
- Packaged Quantity 1
- Device Type NAS server
- Host Connectivity Gigabit Ethernet / 802.11a/b/g/n (draft)
- Total Storage Capacity 500 GB
- Width 7.8 in
- Depth 7.8 in
- Height 1.4 in
- Weight 3.5 lbs
- Built-in Devices Print server,
Router,
Wireless access point Storage Controller
- Type Serial ATA - Integrated
Hard Drive
- Type Standard - 3.5" x 1/3H
- Capacity 1 x 500 GB
- Interface Type Serial ATA-300
Hard Drive (2nd)
- Type None
Optical Storage
- Type None
Optical Storage (2nd)
- Type None
Storage Removable
- Type None
Video
- Video Output None
Networking
- Type Wireless access point - Integrated
- Data Link Protocol Ethernet ,
Gigabit Ethernet ,
IEEE 802.11n (draft) ,
IEEE 802.11b ,
IEEE 802.11a ,
IEEE 802.11g ,
Fast Ethernet - Network / Transport Protocol L2TP,
PPTP,
IPSec - Remote Management Protocol SNMP
- Network Services Compatibility Apple Bonjour Protocol
- Features DNS proxy,
IPv6 support,
RADIUS support,
Firewall protection,
Print server,
VPN passthrough,
MAC address filtering,
DHCP support,
NAT support - Compliant Standards IEEE 802.1x,
IEEE 802.11g,
IEEE 802.11a,
IEEE 802.11b,
IEEE 802.11n (draft) Expansion / Connectivity
- Expansion Bays 1 (total) / 1 (free) x Internal - 3.5" x 1/3H
- Expansion Slot(s) None
- Interfaces Ethernet - USB,
4 x Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX/1000Base-T USB - RJ-45 - RJ-45,
1 x Hi-Speed USB - 4 pin USB Type A Miscellaneous
- Features Security lock slot (cable lock sold separately)
- Compliant Standards FCC Class B certified,
EN 300.328,
ARIB STD-T66,
EN 301.893,
UL 60950,
FCC Part 15,
RSS-210,
CSA 22.2 No. 60950 Power
- Power Device Power supply - Internal
- Voltage Required AC 120/230 V ( 50/60 Hz )
- Power Consumption Operational 30 Watt
Software / System Requirements
- Software Included Drivers & Utilities
- OS Required Microsoft Windows XP SP2,
Microsoft Windows Vista,
Apple MacOS X 10.4 or later - Peripheral / Interface Devices USB port,
Ethernet port Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature 50 °F
- Max Operating Temperature 95 °F
- Humidity Range Operating 20 - 80%
Product series
-
Manufacturer: Apple
Specs: Apple Time Capsule NAS server,
1 TB,
Mac,
PC,
RJ-45,
4 pin USB Type A,
Standard,
Ethernet,
Gigabit Ethernet,
IEEE 802.11n (draft),
IEEE 802.11b,
IEEE 802.11a,
IEEE 802.11g,
Fast Ethernet -
Manufacturer: Apple
Specs: Apple Time Capsule NAS server,
500 GB,
Mac,
PC,
RJ-45,
4 pin USB Type A,
Standard,
Ethernet,
Gigabit Ethernet,
IEEE 802.11n (draft),
IEEE 802.11b,
IEEE 802.11a,
IEEE 802.11g,
Fast Ethernet
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Apple products on Shopper.com
-
- Manufacturer:Apple
- Address:
One Infinite Loop, Cupertino, CA 95014 - Phone: 1-408-996-1010
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