Questions answered in this article:
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Can I transfer files between iBook computers equipped with AirPort if there is not an access point?
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How do I add an iMac or Power Macintosh G3 computer to an AirPort network?
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How do I add a PowerBook G3 computer to an AirPort network?
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Can I share a printer among computers on an AirPort network?
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If I use iBook with AirPort at school, can I also use AirPort at home?
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Can I use a PC notebook in an AirPort network?
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Can I use more than one computer in my house with AirPort?
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Will my modem connection slow down if I'm using AirPort?
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Can I create an AirPort network in a classroom?
Question 1:
Can I transfer files between iBook computers equipped with AirPort if there is not an access point?
Answer:
Yes. You can transfer files or play multiplayer games directly between AirPort-equipped computers. Simply use the AirPort portion of the Control Strip on both computers to switch from using the AirPort Base Station to using direct computer-to-computer communications. Depending on their surroundings, the computers will be able to communicate within about 50 m of each other.
Question 2:
How do I add an iMac or Power Macintosh G3 computer to an AirPort network?
Answer:
An iMac or Power Macintosh G3 can easily be added to the network by using a crossover Ethernet cable with the AirPort Base Station. You merely locate the hardware access point near the desktop computer, connect the Ethernet port of that computer to the Ethernet port on the access point using the crossover cable, and you're ready to share the AirPort Base Station modem. You can also share files and play multiplayer games.
If you have a number of Power Macintosh computers on an Ethernet network, you can plug your AirPort base station into the Ethernet hub providing access to the AirPort base station to all computers on the network.
The iMac (Slot Loading) computer has wireless networking capability built-in. After installing the AirPort card, the iMac (Slot Loading) computer can be a part of an AirPort wireless network.
Question 3:
How do I connect a PowerBook G3 or PowerBook G3 Series computer that is not AirPort-equipped to an AirPort network?
Answer:
For a PowerBook computer that does not have an AirPort card slot, several third-party manufacturers offer wireless (IEEE 802.11) PC cards that work with AirPort networks.
Question 4:
Can I share a printer among computers on an AirPort network?
Answer:
Apple offers the same printer-sharing capabilities for wired and wireless connections. In the classroom, IP-capable printers can be shared on the AirPort network just as they are on your Ethernet network. Many USB printers can also be shared using USB Printer Sharing software. For more information, please see:
Article 75080: "
USB Printer Sharing 1.0: Read Me
"
Question 5:
If I use iBook with AirPort at school, can I also use AirPort at home?
Answer:
Yes. At home, you would need an AirPort Base Station or another AirPort-equipped computer set up as an AirPort Software Access Point. The AirPort portion of the Control Strip allows you to quickly change between your home and school networks.
Question 6:
Can I use a Microsoft Windows-based notebook in an AirPort network?
Answer:
Yes. Because AirPort is based on the IEEE 802.11 DSSS standard, there are a number of companies with products that allow a Windows-based computer to be used in an AirPort network.
Question 7:
Can I use more than one computer in my house with AirPort?
Answer:
Yes. You can share Internet access, exchange files, and play games among all the AirPort-equipped computers in your home, including any which use compatible third-party wireless cards (see Question 3 above).
Question 8:
Will my modem connection slow down if I'm using AirPort?
Answer:
No. If you use a V.90 connection you'll still have up to 56 kilobits per second to share among all the computers using your AirPort Base Station.
Note:
Download speeds vary with line conditions and your ISP's modem capabilities. FCC regulations limit ISP transmission speeds to 53 Kbps in the United States.
Question 9:
Can I create an AirPort network in a classroom?
Answer:
Yes. With AirPort-equipped iBook computers and an AirPort Base Station, you can create a wireless network in your classroom. You can also add more access points to provide coverage for your entire school.
You may see the following articles for the other frequently asked questions and answers:
Article 58414: "
AirPort Wireless Communications: FAQ - Part 1 of 3
"
Article 58415: "
AirPort Wireless Communications: FAQ - Part 2 of 3
"
Note
: Wireless internet access requires AirPort Card, AirPort Base Station, and Internet Access (fees may apply). Some ISPs are not currently compatible with AirPort, including America Online. Range may vary with site conditions.