I didn't understand it until I saw one. In my home and in offices I've always opted for the bigger bulkier WiFi routers - the Linksys WRT54G for example. But when I saw someone slide an Airport Express out of their luggage at a hotel, plug it in, quickly configure it, and share wifi with the room I was simply amazed. I would never imagine doing that with a WRT54G simply because of the bulk and antennas.
Airport Express is, of course, quite different. Similar in size and shape to the first generation iPods, the Airport Express provides 5 externally visible interfaces.
The stereo feature is quite nice. If your stereo has a line in you can configure the Airport Express to receive music (from iTunes only, naturally) and play it on your stereo.
Recent versions of the Airport Express will only handle 10 users, so you shouldn't try to use it for any big gatherings.
The administration software for the Airport Express is included on all Macs, available on an install CD for windows, and isn't offered for Linux. This is a problem, but not a deadly problem for most TechNomads.
Edit to include comment: also note that this device can't act as a repeater.
If you have an iPod (or anything else that gets power from USB) you can leave the dock and adapters at home and just bring the USB plug which can be plugged into the airport express. WiFi router and multi-charger built into one device. I love it.
Further, the $100 price tag is a little high. If you visit your Apple Store regularly then watch for these on the discounts table (at least the Denver store has a discounts table).
Comments
Good but this is not what I need on travel
If there is wired network, it's easy to route it. There are numerous hilariously small and cheaper devices than the Apple one. The big challenge is this: you sit in a cheesy motel. There is WiFi advertised and indeed it is available in the hall. Not in your room. Now what...? Stay tuned, I have the solution!
Post new comment