AirPort Express Setup Guide
Contents 5 6 8 8 10 11 12 Chapter 1: Getting Started About AirPort Express About the AirPort Software What You Need to Get Started Plugging In AirPort Express AirPort Express Status Lights What’s Next 13 13 15 16 Chapter 2: Using AirPort Express Using AirPort Express with Your Broadband Internet Service Using AirPort Express with AirTunes to Play iTunes Music on Your Stereo Using AirPort Express on an Existing Wireless Network to Stream Music to Your Home Stereo 21 Using AirPort Express to Share a USB Pr
29 Configuring and Sharing Internet Access 30 Connecting to an Existing Wireless Network 31 Extending the Range of an Existing AirPort Extreme or AirPort Express Network 32 Setting Advanced Options 35 Chapter 4: AirPort Express on the Road 39 Chapter 5: Tips and Troubleshooting 44 AirPort Express Placement Considerations 45 Items That Can Cause Interference with AirPort 47 47 47 48 48 Chapter 6: Learning More, Service, and Support Online Resources Onscreen Help Obtaining Warranty Service Finding the Serial
1 Getting Started 1 Congratulations on purchasing AirPort Express. Read this guide to get started using it. You can use AirPort Express to share your broadband Internet access with wireless computers on your network, play iTunes music on your home stereo, and much more. Your AirPort Express comes with AirTunes, a way to play iTunes music through remote speakers.
 Extend the range of your network by adding AirPort Express to your existing AirPort Extreme or AirPort Express wireless network (this is called a Wireless Distribution System, or WDS).  Connect a USB printer to your AirPort Express. All of the compatible computers on the AirPort network, both wireless and wired, can print to it.  Create custom profiles so that you can store settings for up to five different locations.
 USB port (d) for connecting a compatible printer to AirPort Express Status light AC plug adapter USB port Ethernet port Reset button Line Out port (Analog and optical digital audio mini-jack) Next to the ports is a reset button, which is used for troubleshooting your AirPort Express. The status light on the side of AirPort Express shows the current status.
About the AirPort Software AirPort Express works with the AirPort software included on the AirPort Express CD. AirPort Utility AirPort Utility helps you set up your AirPort Express to create a wireless network, connect to the Internet, and share a USB printer. You can also connect your AirPort Express to your existing AirPort Express or AirPort Extreme wireless network to extend the range of your network using WDS.
To set up AirPort Express using a Windows PC, you must have the following:  A Windows PC with 300 MHz or higher processor speed  Windows XP Home or Professional You need iTunes to play audio from your computer to a stereo connected to AirPort Express. To be sure you have the latest version of iTunes, go to www.apple.com/itunes. You can use AirPort Express with any wireless-enabled computer that is compliant with the IEEE 802.11b or 802.11g standards.
Plugging In AirPort Express Before you plug in your AirPort Express, first connect the appropriate cables to the ports you want to use, including the Ethernet cable connected to your DSL or cable modem (if you will connect to the Internet), the audio cable connected to your stereo (if you will use AirTunes to play music from iTunes), and a USB cable connected to a compatible USB printer (if you will print to a USB printer).
When you plug AirPort Express into the wall, the status light flashes green and then glows amber while it starts up. After it has started up completely, the status light glows solid green. AirPort Express Status Lights The following table explains AirPort Express light sequences and what they indicate. Light Status/description Off AirPort Express is unplugged. Flashing green AirPort Express is starting up.
What’s Next After you plug in AirPort Express, you use AirPort Utility to set it up to work with your Internet connection, stereo, USB printer, or existing network. See “Using AirPort Express” on page 13 for examples of all the ways you can use AirPort Express, and information about how to set up your wireless network. Then see “Setting Up AirPort Express” on page 25 to find out more about the setup process.
2 Using AirPort Express 2 In this chapter you’ll find explanations of the different ways you can use AirPort Express. This chapter gives examples of how your setup might look, depending on how you use AirPort Express. It also gives a brief explanation of what you need to do to get your AirPort Express network up and running quickly.
What It Looks Like DSL or cable modem G Ethernet port to Internet How to Set It Up 1 Connect your DSL or cable modem to your AirPort Express using the Ethernet port (G). 2 Use AirPort Utility to create a new network. (See page 25 for more information.) Computers using AirPort and computers using other wireless cards or adapters connect to the Internet through AirPort Express. Wireless computers communicate with each other through AirPort Express.
Using AirPort Express with AirTunes to Play iTunes Music on Your Stereo You can connect your AirPort Express to your stereo with a Toslink-to-mini digital fiber optic cable or a mini-stereo-to-dual-RCA cable, or mini-stereo to mini-stereo cable, depending on what type of connectors your stereo uses, and use AirTunes to wirelessly play music from iTunes.
How to Set It Up 1 Connect your AirPort Express to your home stereo or powered speakers using a digital fiber optic cable, analog mini-stereo-to-dual-RCA, or mini-stereo to mini-stereo (depending on what type of connectors your stereo uses) connected to the stereo mini-jack (-). Note: You cannot use powered USB speakers with AirPort Express. Use powered speakers with a stereo mini-jack connector. 2 Use AirPort Utility to create a new network. (See page 25 for more information.
What It Looks Like AirPort Extreme Base Station DSL or cable modem to Internet Line Out port Stereo receiver to Ethernet port To join the wireless network, use the AirPort status menu in the menu bar on a Macintosh. On a Windows computer, hold the pointer over the wireless connection icon until you see your AirPort network name (SSID), and choose it from the list if there are multiple networks available.
There are also other ways you can connect your AirPort Express to your home stereo. Line Out port Stereo receiver DSL or cable modem to Internet If your computer has an AirPort Extreme Card installed, or a compatible wireless card for Windows, you can use AirTunes to play iTunes music on a stereo connected to your AirPort Express.
You can also connect your AirPort Express to the Internet and provide Internet access to computers that join the network. Connect your AirPort Express to your home stereo, and computers on the network with AirPort Extreme Cards or computers with compatible 802.11b or 802.11g cards can use iTunes to play music on the stereo.
Optional Audio Cable and Power Cord You can purchase the optional AirPort Express Stereo Connection Kit with Monster Cables to connect your AirPort Express to your home stereo or powered speakers. The kit includes analog mini-stereo-to-dual-RCA connectors, a Toslink digital fiber optic cable, and a power cord. Mini-stereo-to-RCA cable Toslink-to-mini digital fiber optic cable Power cord  Connect the analog cable to your home stereo if it uses standard analog cables.
Using AirPort Express to Share a USB Printer When you connect a USB printer to your AirPort Express, all of the computers on the wireless network can print to it.
How to Set It Up 1 Connect the printer to the AirPort Express USB port (d) using a USB cable. 2 Use AirPort Utility to create a new network or join an existing one. Wireless computers can print to the printer using Mac OS X v10.2.7 or later, or Windows 2000 or Windows XP. To use the printer from a computer using Mac OS X: 1 Open Printer Setup Utility (located in the Utilities folder in the Applications folder). 2 Select the printer from the list.
What It Looks Like Family Room DSL or cable modem Dining Room Living Room AirPort Extreme Base Station to Internet How to Set It Up 1 You need to have an existing AirPort network created by an AirPort Extreme Base Station or an AirPort Express connected to the Internet. This base station is called the main base station and shares its Internet connection with your AirPort Express. 2 Use AirPort Utility to join your network and extend its range. (See page 25 for more information.
Using AirPort Express with Your AirPort Extreme Network The illustration below shows a wireless network with all of the above examples in a single wireless network. Family Room Living Room to Ethernet port to Internet to Line Out port to USB port AirPort Extreme Base Station DSL or cable modem How to Set It Up  Use AirPort Utility to create a new network and take advantage of all the AirPort Express features.
3 Setting Up AirPort Express 3 This chapter provides information and instructions for using the AirPort software to set up your AirPort Express. Use the diagrams in the previous chapter to help you decide where you want to use your AirPort Express, and what features you want to set up on your AirPort network. Then use the instructions in this chapter to easily configure AirPort Express and set up your AirPort network.
You can use AirTunes to play music from iTunes and share a USB printer in any type of network you set up, whether it is a new network or you are joining an existing network. If you have more than one AirPort Express, you can connect one to the stereo in your living room and connect another to the powered speakers in your den. Using AirTunes, you can stream your iTunes music to either AirPort Express, depending on where you are in your house.
Using the AirPort Utility To set up and configure your AirPort Express to use AirPort for wireless networking and Internet access, use the setup assistant in AirPort Utility. AirPort Utility is installed on your computer when you install the software on the AirPort Express CD. On a Macintosh computer using Mac OS X v10.4 or later: 1 Open AirPort Utility, located in the Utilities folder in your Applications folder. 2 Select your base station and click Continue.
3 Follow the onscreen instructions to set up your AirPort Express and your wireless network. The setup assistant in AirPort Utility asks you a series of questions about the type of network you want to use and the services you want to set up. The setup assistant helps you enter the appropriate settings for the network you are setting up.
Creating a New Wireless Network You can use the setup assistant in AirPort Utility to create a new wireless network. The setup assistant guides you through the steps necessary to name your network, protect your network with a password, and set other options. If you plan to share a USB printer on your network: 1 Connect the printer or hard disk to the AirPort Express USB port (d).
On a Macintosh, use the AirPort status menu in the menu bar. On a computer using Windows XP, hold the pointer over the wireless connection icon until you see your AirPort network name (SSID), and choose it from the list if there are multiple networks available. The default network name for an Apple base station is AirPortNetworkXXXXXX, where XXXXXX is replaced with the last six digits of the AirPort ID, also know as the Media Access Control or MAC address.
Make sure you connect the audio cable to your stereo and the USB cable to your printer before you use AirPort Utility. 1 Open AirPort Utility, located in the Utilities folder in the Applications folder on a Macintosh, or in Start > All Programs > AirPort on a computer using Windows. 2 Follow the onscreen instructions to connect your AirPort Express to your wireless network.
Setting Advanced Options To set advanced options, you can use AirPort Utility to set up your AirPort Express manually. You can configure advanced base station settings, such as advanced security options, closed networks, DHCP lease time, access control, power controls, setting up user accounts, and more. To set advanced options: 1 Choose the wireless network you want to change. On a Macintosh, use the AirPort status menu in the menu bar.
For more information and detailed instructions for using the manual setup features AirPort Utility, see the “Designing AirPort Extreme 802.11n Networks” document, located at www.apple.com/airport. The document provides details for both of the following:  Using AirPort Utility with the AirPort Extreme 802.11n Base Station  Using AirPort Utility to set up your AirPort Express 802.
4 AirPort Express on the Road 4 AirPort Express can store settings for different locations so that you can easily move it from place to place. AirPort Express can store up to five configurations, known as profiles. A profile contains settings for your AirPort Express, such as the iTunes speaker name and password, and network information, such as the network name and password. Profiles may be useful if you move your AirPort Express from one location to another.
Use AirPort Utility, located in the Utilities folder in the Applications folder on a Macintosh, and in Start > All Programs > AirPort on a computer using Windows XP to create, edit, rename, and delete profiles. To create a new profile: 1 Open AirPort Utility, select your AirPort Express in the list, and then choose Manual Setup from the Base Station menu. 2 Enter a password for the base station If necessary. 3 Choose Manage Profiles from the Base Station menu.
4 Click Add to create a new profile, give the profile a name, and then click OK. 5 Set options, such as network name, remote speaker name, passwords, and the Internet connection method. 6 When you are finished setting the options, click Update. After you have a profile in the list, the Profiles pop-up menu is available at the bottom of the AirPort Utility window.
5 Tips and Troubleshooting 5 You can quickly solve most problems with AirPort Express by following the advice in this chapter. The AirPort Express Software Can’t Detect the Proper AirPort Hardware Make sure that the computer you are using has an AirPort Card or an AirPort Extreme Card installed. If you recently installed the card, shut down your computer and make sure the card is properly installed.
You Can’t Play Music on Your Stereo from iTunes Check the following: Â Make sure your AirPort Express is plugged into a power outlet, is in range of your computer, and that you have connected the appropriate cables. You may need to join the AirPort Express network. Â Make sure to choose your AirPort Express from the speakers pop-up menu in iTunes. Â Make sure you are using iTunes 4.6 or later.
 On a computer using Windows 2000 or Windows XP, hold the pointer over the wireless connection icon until you see your AirPort Network Name (SSID), and choose it from the list if there are multiple networks available. 3 Open AirPort Utility (in the Utilities folder in the Applications folder on a Macintosh, and in Start > All Programs > AirPort on a computer using Windows XP or Windows 2000). 4 Select your AirPort Express and click Configure.
Your AirPort Express Status Light Flashes Amber The Ethernet cable may not be connected properly, AirPort Express may be out of range of an AirPort network, or there may be a problem with your Internet service provider. If you are connected to the Internet with a DSL or cable modem, the modem may have lost its connection to the network or the Internet. Even if the modem seems to be working properly, try disconnecting the modem from its power supply, waiting a few seconds, and then reconnecting it.
 The AirPort Express password returns to public. If you used AirPort Utility to create profiles for your AirPort Express, they are preserved when you reset your AirPort Express. If you need to return your AirPort Express to the factory settings and remove any profiles you have set up: 1 Unplug AirPort Express. 2 Use the end of a straightened paper clip to hold down the reset button while you plug in AirPort Express. Wait until the status light flashes, and then reset the base station.
To select your printer on a computer using Windows XP or Windows 2000: Â Open “Printers and Faxes” from the Start menu. Â Select the printer. If the printer is not in the list, click Add Printer and then follow the onscreen instructions. 4 Turn off the printer, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on. For more information about setting up a printer on a computer using Windows, see “To use the printer from a Windows computer” on page 23.
 If you place your AirPort Express behind furniture, keep at least an inch of space between the AirPort Express and the edge of the furniture.  Avoid placing your AirPort Express in areas surrounded by metal surfaces on three or more sides.  If you place your AirPort Express in an entertainment center with your stereo equipment, avoid completely surrounding AirPort Express with audio, video, or power cables. Place your AirPort Express so the cables are to one side.
 Cordless telephones that operate in the 2.4 GHz range. If you have problems with your phone or AirPort communication, change the channel your base station or AirPort Express uses.  Adjacent base stations using nearby channels. For example, if base station A is set to channel 1, base station B should be set to channel 4 or higher.
6 Learning More, Service, and Support 6 You can find more information about using AirPort Express on your hard disk, on the web, and in onscreen help. Online Resources For the latest information about AirPort Express, go to www.apple.com/airportexpress. To register AirPort Express (if you didn’t do it when you installed the software on the AirPort Express CD), go to www.apple.com/register.
Obtaining Warranty Service If the product appears to be damaged or does not function properly, please follow the advice in this booklet, the onscreen help, and the online resources. If the unit still does not function, go to www.apple.com/support for instructions on how to obtain warranty service. Finding the Serial Number of Your AirPort Express The serial number is printed on the back of your AirPort Express.
Appendix AirPort Express Specifications AirPort Specifications  Wireless Data Rate: Up to 54 megabits per second (Mbps)  Range: Up to 150 feet (45 meters) in typical use (varies with environment)  Frequency Band: 2.4 gigahertz (GHz)  Radio Output Power: 15 dBm (nominal)  Standards: 802.11 DSSS 1 and 2 Mbps standard, 802.11b, and 802.11g specification Interfaces  RJ-45 Ethernet LAN connector for built-in 10/100Base-T (G)  Universal Serial Bus (USB) printing (d)  Analog/digital optical 3.
Size and Weight  Height: 3.7 inches (94 mm)  Width: 2.9 inches (75 mm)  Thickness: 1.12 inches (28.5 mm)  Weight: 6.63 ounces (188 grams) Hardware Addresses The AirPort has two hardware addresses printed on the side of the case:  AirPort ID: The address used to identify AirPort Express on a wireless network.  Ethernet ID: This also known as the MAC address. You may need to provide this address to your ISP to connect AirPort Express to the Internet.
 If you are using the optional power cord, avoid dangling AirPort Express from the power cord.  When you are using your AirPort Express, it is normal for the case to get warm. The AirPort Express case functions as a cooling surface that transfers heat from inside the unit to the cooler air outside. Avoid Wet Locations WARNING: To reduce the chance of shock or injury, do not use your AirPort Express in or near water or wet locations.
About Handling Your AirPort Express may be damaged by improper storage or handling. Be careful not to drop your AirPort Express when transporting the device.
Regulatory Compliance Information FCC Declaration of Conformity This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. See instructions if interference to radio or television reception is suspected.
Industry Canada Statement This Class B device meets all requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations. Cet appareil numérique de la Class B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada. VCCI Class B Statement Europe — EU Declaration of Conformity Complies with European Directives 72/23/EEC, 89/336/ EEC, 1999/5/EC. For more information, see www.apple.com/euro/compliance.
www.apple.com/airport www.apple.com/support/airport © 2007 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, AirPort, AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, Bonjour, iTunes, Mac, Macintosh, and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. AirTunes is a trademark of Apple Inc.
