Roberta Aguirre
Apple's AirPort Express is a compact wireless router that allows users to create a wireless internet access point anywhere. It is designed to be portable and convenient, measuring only 3.7 inches by 2.9 inches. The device offers a range of wireless networking capabilities, including the ability to set up an access point, stream audio and video through iTunes, and extend the range of an existing wireless network. AirPort Express is compatible with popular Wi-Fi standards and both Mac and Windows operating systems, providing wireless internet access for up to 10 users. It also includes security features such as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and WPA2. While Apple discontinued its AirPort line in 2018, the AirPort Express remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile wireless router solution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First Version Release Date | July 7, 2004 |
| First Version Model | M9470LL/A, model A1084 |
| First Version Processor | Broadcom BCM4712KFB wireless networking chipset |
| First Version Audio Converter | Texas Instruments Burr-Brown PCM2705 16-bit digital-to-analog converter |
| First Version Ports | 1 Ethernet port, 1 USB port, 1 analog-optical audio mini-jack output |
| Second Version Release Date | March 2008 |
| Second Version Model | MB321LL/A, model A1264 |
| Second Version Networking Chip | 802.11 Draft-N |
| Second Version Modes | 802.11a/n (5 GHz) |
| Size | 3.85-inches wide, 3.85 inches deep, 1-inch high |
| Wireless Range | 300 feet |
| Wireless Security | WPA, WPA2, 40-bit or 128-bit WEP, MAC address filtering |
| Wireless Network Compatibility | 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n |
| Operating System Compatibility | Mac, Windows |
| Discontinuation Date | April 2018 |
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What You'll Learn
Apple's AirPort Express is a wireless router
The AirPort Express has two Ethernet/LAN ports. One is used to connect to a PC, Ethernet hub, or networked printer, while the other enables a wired connection to a modem or Ethernet-based network. It also features a USB port that allows wireless network printing when connected to a non-network printer. Additionally, the AirPort Express has a 3.5 mm mini-jack port for connecting to powered speakers or, via an RCA connection adapter, to audio devices such as soundbars or home theatre systems.
The device supports various Wi-Fi flavours, including 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems and offers security options such as WPA, WPA2, and MAC address filtering.
Apple introduced the first version of the AirPort Express (model A1084) in July 2004, which included an analog-optical audio mini-jack output, a USB port, and one Ethernet port. In March 2008, Apple released an updated version (model A1264) with support for the faster 802.11 Draft-N specification, doubling the wireless range and significantly increasing data transfer speeds.
While Apple discontinued the AirPort Express in April 2018, it still provides support, and the device remains a popular option for creating wireless networks and extending Wi-Fi coverage.
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It can extend your WiFi network
The AirPort Express can extend your WiFi network by becoming an access point. This is useful for extending your WiFi network to a music streaming unit in the garage or a computer in an adjoining office. In a hotel room, for example, you can connect AirPort to your Ethernet network, and it will provide wireless internet access for up to 10 users.
The AirPort Express can also amplify a weak wireless signal. If there is a weak signal in the last room of a house, placing an AirPort within range of the base station will amplify that signal and make it much speedier. The Extreme version of the AirPort supports up to 50 users and comes with three LAN ports for added connectivity options.
The AirPort Express is a standalone router that can be used to extend Wi-Fi from your wireless router. It can also act as an access point, allowing you to access music or audio streamed from an iPhone, iPad, iPod, or iTunes via your computer. Using AirPlay, you can play this media on a connected powered speaker, stereo, or home theatre system.
The AirPort Express has a 3.5mm mini-jack port that can connect to powered speakers or, via an RCA connection adapter, to a soundbar, sound base, stereo/home theatre receiver, or audio system with analog stereo audio input connections. It also has two Ethernet/LAN ports. One is for connection to a PC, Ethernet hub, or networked printer, while the other is for a wired connection to a modem or Ethernet-based network.
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It can be used to stream music and video
The AirPort Express is a wireless router that allows users to create a wireless internet access point anywhere. It can also be used to extend the range of an existing wireless network. Apple's AirPlay feature allows users to stream music and video from iTunes on their computer, iPod, iPhone, or iPad to an AirPlay-enabled device. This includes Apple TV and AirPlay-enabled home theatre receivers, as well as other AirPlay devices such as another iPhone.
To stream music and video using AirPort Express, connect it to a power source and ensure it is connected to your home network, indicated by a green light. Then, connect it to the audio input on your stereo or AV receiver, or to powered speakers. The AirPort Express uses an audio connector that combines a 3.5 mm minijack socket and a mini-TOSLINK optical digital transmitter, allowing connection to an external digital-to-analog converter (DAC) or amplifier with an internal DAC. Standard audio CDs ripped in iTunes into Apple Lossless format streamed to the AirPort Express will output a bit-for-bit identical bitstream when compared to the original CD, provided any sound enhancement settings in iTunes are disabled.
For Windows and Mac operating systems, there are software options available for streaming system-wide audio to the AirPort Express, such as Airfoil and TuneBlade. The AirPort Express can also be used in combination with a Sonos multi-room audio system.
While Apple discontinued the AirPort Express in April 2018, it may still be available new or refurbished from select retailers.
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AirPort Express works with all popular flavours of Wi-Fi
The AirPort Express is a small device by Apple that allows you to set up an Internet access point anywhere. It is compact, measuring only 3.7 inches (9.4 cm) in height, 2.9 inches (7.5 cm) in width, and 1.1 inches (2.8 cm) in thickness. Its small form factor allows it to be easily carried around and used in various locations, such as at home or in a hotel room.
The AirPort Express is compatible with all popular flavours of Wi-Fi, including 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n. This compatibility ensures that it can work with a wide range of wireless routers and devices. The device can connect to your DSL (direct subscriber line) or cable modem, or your Ethernet network, providing wireless Internet access for up to 10 users.
In terms of security, the AirPort Express offers multiple options. You can set up the device to use WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) or WPA2, with 40-bit or 128-bit Wireless Security (WEP). Additionally, MAC address filtering is available for further network security.
The AirPort Express has undergone several iterations since its introduction in 2004. The first version, released in July 2004, featured an 802.11g networking chip and weighed less than 7 ounces. In 2008, Apple introduced an updated version with an 802.11n chip, doubling the wireless range and significantly increasing data transfer speeds.
The AirPort Express has been a significant contributor to the widespread adoption of wireless Internet, offering users a portable and convenient way to create wireless access points and stream multimedia content to various devices.
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Apple discontinued the product in 2018
Apple's AirPort Express was a compact device with wireless networking capabilities. It allowed users to set up a wireless internet access point anywhere, stream multimedia content to various devices, and extend the range of an existing wireless network. The device was first introduced in 2004 and received updates over the years, including improved wireless range and data transfer speeds.
In April 2018, Apple announced the discontinuation of its AirPort line, including the AirPort Express. This decision marked Apple's exit from the consumer router market. While the news disappointed fans of Apple's routers, it was not entirely unexpected. Prior to the announcement, there had been reports of Apple disbanding the team responsible for developing its routers and reassigning engineers to other products.
Apple's statement regarding the discontinuation acknowledged that the AirPort products would still be available for purchase through various channels while supplies lasted. The company also committed to supporting existing AirPort Express users, providing service and parts for current-generation AirPort Base Stations for the next five years. Additionally, Apple planned to share knowledge-base articles to assist customers in transitioning away from AirPort products.
The discontinuation of the AirPort Express and the broader AirPort line can be attributed to several factors. One reason was the increasing datedness of Apple's router offerings, particularly in the absence of a mesh tri-band system. Apple's routers lacked recent hardware revisions, and the company had not updated the AirPort Express since 2012.
Furthermore, the rise of mesh networking technology, which enables improved coverage for larger and more challenging areas, influenced Apple's decision to discontinue its AirPort line. Instead of developing its own mesh router, Apple opted to offer third-party alternatives, such as the Linksys Velop, through its retail stores.
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Frequently asked questions
Airport Express is a wireless router that was launched by Apple in 2004. It can be used to extend Wi-Fi from a wireless router and also acts as an access point.
Airport Express has two Ethernet/LAN ports. One is used for connection to a PC, Ethernet hub, or networked printer, while the other is for a wired connection to a modem or an Ethernet-based network. It also has a USB port and a 3.5 mm mini-jack port.
Airport Express allows you to create a wireless internet access point anywhere, at home or in a hotel room. It also lets you stream multimedia to various devices and extend the range of an existing wireless network.
Apple discontinued Airport Express in April 2018 but it may still be available as new stock or refurbished through select retailers.
