Inexplicably Mac-unfriendly product packaging

MacFixIt reader Robert Ameeti details yet another case of product packaging/documentation that seemingly goes out of its way to make setup difficult for Mac users.

In this case, its a Linksys Wireless-G router that can be fully configured from and utilized by Macs, but is inexplicably accompanied by a blatant Windows setup wizard and hard-to-locate user guide that (though geared toward Windows users) will suffice to explain the setup process for Mac users.

Robert writes: "I recently purchased a Linksys Wireless-G Broadband Router, model WRT54G, version 6. This new version now ships with a CD that has only a PC executable Wizard for setting up the router.

"There is a label sealing the CD envelope with the text 'Run CD First before connecting cables.' An 'in your face' scare that something bad might happen if you don't follow those instructions. Linksys also has this warning label blocking the cable ports. But the reality is that the average Mac user can not run the PC executable which forces a Mac user into a unfair position. They may choose to explore the CD to find a Doc folder where they will find a pdf named 'wrt54gv6-ug.pdf'. A very experienced user may recognize this a User Guide for the model WRT54G version 6 router but certainly most computer users will not know that a file with the letters 'ug' is a user guide. The PC user will not need to know any of this because they will be able to run the executable on their PC and have the wizard configure the router. Without the wizard, the computer user must delve into the pdf so as to find the default password should they want to attempt a manual configuration."

This manufacturer's method of documentation begs the question: why not simply place an easily accessible user guide within a folder labeled "Mac OS X setup instructions" or similar? Such a change would require virtually no extra resource expenditure, and provide a significantly more intuitive experience for Mac users.

Now also seems like a good time to gather a list of wireless router manufacturers (other than Apple) who provide routers with express Mac support and appropriate setup documentation. In-house, we've had success with the following manufacturers:

• MacSense
• D-Link (some product lines)
• Buffalo Technology (will be exhibiting at Macworld SF '07)

If you have any to add, please let us know.

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