Sachin Walls
If you have an old Apple AirPort Express, you may be wondering if it still has any use. The answer is yes! While Apple may have abandoned support for older models, you can still use them for various purposes. For example, you can use it as a range extender for your network, for dedicated Airplay speakers, or for Ethernet connectivity to a console for direct online gaming. With some troubleshooting, you can even configure older AirPort Express models to work with newer macOS versions. So, before you discard your old AirPort Express, explore the options available to give it a new lease of life.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Model Number | A1264, A1084, A1088, M9470LL/A, Gen 1, Gen 2 (A1392) |
| Use Cases | Wireless speakers, Range extender, Airplay, Ethernet connection |
| Setup | Requires Windows AP Utility app or AirPort Utility app |
| Reset | Hold the reset button for 10-20 seconds |
| Limitations | Does not meet default security standards on newer macOS versions |
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What You'll Learn
Use it as a range extender
If you have an old Airport Express router lying around, you can use it as a range extender to boost your Wi-Fi signal and improve coverage in your home or office. Here's how you can set it up:
First, identify the model number of your Airport Express. Look for a number on the side of the device, it will be either A1264, A1084, or A1088. The A1264 model is the most recent and compatible with newer macOS versions.
To use your old Airport Express as a range extender, follow these steps:
- Connect your Airport Express to your computer using an Ethernet cable.
- Open Airport Utility on your computer.
- Click on your Airport Express (AE) in the list of devices.
- Select "Wireless" from the menu.
- Choose "Network Mode".
- Select "Extend" to join your existing wireless network and extend its range.
- Create a new wireless network by entering a unique network name and password.
- Go to the "Network" tab and turn off DHCP/NAT by selecting "Bridge Mode".
By setting up your old Airport Express as a range extender, you can boost your Wi-Fi signal and improve connectivity in areas of your home or office that may have weak coverage. This is a great way to make use of your old hardware and ensure that you have a strong and reliable internet connection throughout your space.
Additionally, if you have an A1264 model, you can also use it for Airplay streaming. This allows you to wirelessly stream music or other audio content to a stereo system or speakers, providing lossless audio quality that is superior to Bluetooth streaming.
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Connect it to a stereo radio to stream music
If you have an old Airport Express, you can connect it to a stereo radio to stream music. This can be done by connecting the Airport Express to a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and then into an amplifier. The DAC converts the digital audio signal from the Airport Express into an analog signal that can be amplified and played through the stereo system.
- Connect the Airport Express to a power source using the small 2-prong AC plug that comes with MacBook chargers.
- Use a mini toslink to toslink adapter with your existing optical cable to connect the Airport Express to the DAC.
- Connect the DAC to your stereo receiver or amplifier using RCA or XLR cables.
- Set up the Airport Express on your network using the AirPort Utility on a MacBook.
- Open the music streaming app of your choice on your iPhone or iPad and ensure that AirPlay is enabled.
- Select the Airport Express as the output device in the music streaming app.
- Play your desired music and it should now be streamed wirelessly to your stereo system.
It is important to note that for the highest quality streaming experience, you may need to adjust the settings in your music streaming apps to use the highest streaming rate available, such as 320 kbps for Jazz Radio. Additionally, ensure that any "Loudness Normalization" or "Optimized Playback" features are turned off within the settings of the music app.
By following these steps, you can utilize your old Airport Express to wirelessly stream music from your iPhone or iPad to your stereo radio, enjoying CD-quality lossless audio.
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Use it to Airplay in your car
If you have an old Airport Express, you can repurpose it to Airplay in your car. This will allow you to play music wirelessly from your phone through your car's stereo system.
First, you'll need to modify your Airport Express so that it can draw power from a USB cable instead of a household plug. To do this, you'll need to open up the Airport Express and remove the internal power supply. Then, you can install a 3.3V voltage regulator and USB cable. Make sure to use heat shrink tubing to protect from possible shorts.
Once your Airport Express is modified, you can plug it into a USB car charger or directly into a USB port in your car. You'll also need to connect the audio cable that came with the Airport Express to your car's input.
To set up Airplay, you'll need to fire up Apple's AirPort Utility on your laptop while in the car. Click on your device and select "Edit". Give your device a name and password, and then click on the "Internet" tab. Go to the "Wireless" tab and set the network mode to "Create a Wireless Network". Set your security level and password, and then click "Wireless Options" to ensure the details are correct for your region. Click "Save", and then select the "Network" tab. Set the Router Mode to "DHCP and NAT", and then click "Network Options". Set the DHCP Lease time to 1 day and the IPv4 DHCP range to 10.0.1.2 to 200. Make sure "Enable NAT Port Mapping Protocol" is selected, then hit "Save".
Finally, click on the "AirPlay" tab and ensure that "Enable AirPlay" is checked. You can give the speaker a custom name if you wish. Now, connect your phone to the network, choose a song, and select your Airplay network.
Note that for your phone to connect to the Airplay network and the internet via your phone carrier, you may need to change a setting on your phone. For example, if you have an iPhone, you may need to choose "Static" under the IP address in the settings for your wireless network.
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Connect it to a console for direct online gaming
If you have an old Apple AirPort Express, you can connect it to a console for direct online gaming. This is a great way to utilise your old AirPort Express and enhance your gaming experience. Here's how you can set it up:
First, check the model number of your AirPort Express. The model number should be either A1264, A1084, or A1088, which you can find on the side of the device. The A1264 model is the most compatible with newer devices and software.
Next, identify the ports available on your gaming console. You will typically need an Ethernet port or a USB port on your console to establish a wired connection. Some consoles may have both options, so choose the one that best suits your setup.
Now, connect your AirPort Express to your console. Use an Ethernet cable or a USB cable, depending on the ports available on your console. Plug one end of the cable into the corresponding port on your AirPort Express and the other end into the console.
Configure the network settings on your console. You may need to access the AirPort Express's admin screen to enable internet sharing over the Ethernet port. This step may vary depending on the specific console you are using, so refer to your console's user guide or online community forums for detailed instructions.
Finally, test the connection by launching an online game on your console. Ensure that your console is connected to the network and the internet through the AirPort Express. You may need to set a static IP address for your console or configure other network settings, depending on your console's requirements.
By following these steps, you can extend the life of your old AirPort Express and enjoy seamless online gaming on your console. Remember to troubleshoot any connection issues by checking cable connections, power cycling the devices, and verifying network settings. Happy gaming!
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Make some speakers wireless
If you have an old Airport Express, you can use it to make some speakers wireless. This can be done by connecting the Airport Express to your Wi-Fi network and then plugging in your speakers.
To connect your Airport Express to your Wi-Fi network, you will need to reset the device. To do this, hold down the reset button for 10-20 seconds while the device is plugged in. You will know when the device has reset as the light on the front will change from flashing slowly to flashing quickly. Once the device has reset, you can configure it to join your existing Wi-Fi network.
To connect your speakers, use a 3.5mm audio cable to connect the speakers to the Airport Express. Then, turn up the volume on the speakers themselves and ensure they are working correctly.
You can now play audio to your speakers from your iPhone or iPad. To do this, open Control Centre, hold down the Now Playing widget, tap the AirPlay Audio icon, and select your new speakers.
It is worth noting that the original Airport Express (US model number M9470LL/A) only supports up to 802.11g wireless. This may cause issues with more recent devices.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use it as a range extender for a network, or to stream music to a stereo radio or speakers.
You can use the AirPort Utility app from your iPhone or Mac to manage it. You may need to disable Gatekeeper temporarily.
Look for either A1264, A1084, or A1088.
While it's plugged in, hold the reset button for about 10-20 seconds, until the light switches from flashing slowly to flashing quickly, then let go.
