Serial Number and MAC Number rubbed off the back! Problem?

[leojbramble]

I got a replacement (refurbed) TX from Palm earlier this week, and I just discovered that the serial number and MAC no. (what is that?) have rubbed off the back while I've been using it over the last couple of days!!!!!

I had noticed when I first got the new unit that the manufacturer's label on the back had a much glossier surface and sharper, easier-to-read text than my old one. What I didn't realize at the time is that that was because the label on my old unit was covered (I guess) with a protective film that keeps the numbers from rubbing off.



I did find a way to look up the serial number on the unit itself, but what's the "MAC number", and how do I find that? Also, do you think there's any reason for me to trade this unit back in (I really, really don't want to go through that again), or is it no big deal? My only worry is that in the off chance I have to get this new unit serviced in the future, Palm might have a problem with the absence of a serial number on the unit itself.

Thanks.

[Donx]

See my reply in the other thread.

[BAB2000]

The serial number can be found by going to the home screnn, select drop down, info.

The Mac addr is found via preferences/WiFi/Info/.....

[lelisa13p]

Your MAC address is handy for configuring tighter wireless security, if that's something that might interest you. See the sticky Wireless TX thread for more.

In the future, if your palm isn't usually in a case, others here have put a piece of clear tape over the label to protect the ink.

[StuartS]

But will it be a problem if future repairs are needed? Anyone have experience on this?

[RobbM]

MAC is "Media Access Control". You can think of it as a hardwired device identifier for all networking devices. For example, if you have a wireless PC, the wireless card has a MAC address and so does the Ethernet card and they will be different.

If you don't find the MAC address, it may not be a big deal. Some wireless networks can be secured at the access point or router by looking for specific MAC addresses. This is how I secure my home network.

[PDA Bach]

But will it be a problem if future repairs are needed? Anyone have experience on this?

It probably won't be a problem, StuartS. The serial number is (as described above) also burned into ROM so can be read from the info screen.
The MAC number shouldn't be needed for a repair, but again, if it is, it can be gleaned from the device itself.