Actually, from what I have read, there appears to be a bug that WILL NOT let you "Inspect Portal" if your Advanced Technology skill is over 3. That's unsubstantiated, but it's what I've heard. Have you activated the portal, i.e., is it glowing?
If that's not it, it sounds to me like there's something wrong with your game, whether there's a problem with your install, the Sim, the time traveler, or the portal. I don't have any advice for you there.