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Apple WWAN Support 1.0 (#2): launch2net updated to resolve connection issues
We previously reported that Apple's WWAN Support 1.0 update -- which purports expanded compatibility with various EVDO and HSDPA access cards -- actually breaks access to certain wireless networks in some countries.
In particular, we noted that the Merlin XU870, though listed as gaining new compatibility with Cingular under the WWAN 1.0 release, actually becomes unusable (where it previously worked correctly) with certain services after the update.
MacFixIt reader Per Ejeklint offers a case example:
"This release seems to be seriously flawed. I'm in Sweden, running a swedish copy of Mac OS X and was offered the Apple WWAN Support through Software Update. The installation trashed the settings for my provider in Sweden -- Telia -- and insists that Cingular is the provider-of-choice when using a Novatel XU870. Well, Cingular is not available in Europe but the XU870 is sold here and works fine with other 3G providers. The new software causes UIServer to go into a loop, crashing and restarting all over. I have tried to remove network ports, clean preferences, but nothing helps but delete what was installed and revert to the original drivers from Novatel (as recommended by MacFixIt)."
As stated by Per, we also noted a fix for these issues, which involves deleting the files created by WWAN Support 1.0, then re-installing the driver available from your wireless access device's manufactuer (e.g. Novatel's driver for the Merlin XU870).
We've now received word that launch2net, a utility that provides a stock of network settings for automatic configuration and connection using several EVDO and HSDPA access cards under Mac OS X, has been updated to resolve some of the issues introduced with the WWAN Support 1.0 update. So, if your access device is covered by launch2net and was broken by WWAN Support 1.0, you may be able to regain functionality by applying the latest version: launch2net 1.5.8.
Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.
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Apart from this issue (which actually now prevents me from successfully connecting with my card that was working fine before), it's also strange that Apple has called the Novatel Merlin XU870 a "Cingular card". It is as if Apple is completely disregarding all the other Apple customers who use this card outside the US.