Welcome to the Mac Hardware Forum

When asking for help with a machine, please include your system specifications and what version of the Mac OS you are using. That information helps to diagnose and solve problems with any software or hardware-related issue. To locate this information, simply click on the Apple on the top left corner of the menu bar and select "About This Mac". This window will show you what operating system you are using, what build of it is running, the processor and its clock speed, and the amount of memory you have installed. For more information, you can click on "More Info", which will bring up System Profiler. This will display all of the hardware information that you will need. Information such as your hard drive's capacity, your disc drive, and details on your displays and graphics hardware will be listed.

Also, knowing that you have either a PowerPC or an Intel Mac makes a difference. In some cases, it may be because of hardware, or more specifically, processor limitations if something is not operating correctly. Apple had switched to Intel processors by the end of 2006. These chips use the Core architecture and are different from their PowerPC predecessors, developed by Motorola/Freescale and IBM. Again, this information will be listed in the "About This Mac" pane as well as in System Profiler.

-BMF

If you are experiencing issues with parts of the Mac OS, be it things like WiFi connections or performance/speed, outdated software may be a factor. Be sure to check for updates from Apple, or other software vendors for third-party applications, to address some of these issues.

Note: if you are using OS 10.5 (Leopard) on an Intel Mac, particularly a MacBook or a MacBook Pro, you may experience WiFi dropouts and weak signals. In some cases, the AirPort card can be responsible, but it may be because of Leopard's wireless drivers as some Mac users have suggested. If you originally had Tiger on your Mac, you may have noticed this upon upgrading. It may also be because of wireless traffic in your area, usually because of other WiFi signals using the same channels. Apple has issued a few AirPort updates since Leopard has been released, so these may help with any issues you may have.

Apple prefers that you install all of the latest updates on your Mac when you take it into the Genius Bar (Apple's in-store technical support) for assistance or repairs, so that helps too. Your Mac can automatically check for updates, but you can check manually also. Click on the Apple on the top left corner, on the menu bar, and select "Software Update...". Software Update will launch and will notify you of any updates specifically for your Mac that you do not have installed and will download and install them upon authorization.

-BMF