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Airport Express on separate 802.11n network?

My AE joins 802.11g home network. Since AE is 801.11n capable it might be possible to create separate 802.11n network (using 802.11n USB adapter for my Mac Mini) just to send music to AE (from Itunes). Existing 802.11g only router would still provide adequate connection to internet (that is slow 3Mb/s) and printer.

Separate 5GHz network should not interfere with existing router. It will be also less susceptible to microwave or cellphone interference. Interference from other routers in the area will also be reduced since 5GHz does not penetrate walls very well (all my gear in one room). Can this be done? I'm grateful for any suggestion.
128x128kijanki

Showing 4 responses by kijanki

kijanki's avatar
kijanki OP
4,413 posts
 
Al, I found this: http://www.amazon.com/Sapido-Dual-Band-Wireless-High-Speed-One-Touch/dp/B0072HO9W4/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&coliid=I2Y685FOL69QGD&colid=41JEAXYNOO5S

It is difficult to find any high power USB adapter because they are either 2.4GHz or Windows only. Would it be better to get high power N router instead? I have unused Ethernet connector on my Mac Mini.
kijanki's avatar
kijanki OP
4,413 posts
 
Thank you Al, I noticed this 2.4GHz and thought it was misprint. Thanks for the warning. I think there is an order of the networks. Yes, it is Toslink.
kijanki's avatar
kijanki OP
4,413 posts
 
Thank you Al. I appreciate the time you spent to help me. I ordered Edimax from your Newegg link on special for $19.19 (offer I could not refuse). It should work since distance is only 15' across the room, but in case it doesn't I have your link to Amped (yes, power is huge and antenna is directional).
kijanki's avatar
kijanki OP
4,413 posts
 
Edimax comes with Windows drivers only (same on the website). Manufacturer claims only Windows compatibility (shame on you Newegg). Luckily I was able to find Ralitek chipset number after opening the case and to download driver plus utility program.

I can create two separate infrastructure networks but they don't work at the same time. Peer-to-peer network in addition to infrastructure network would perhaps work but Apple Express won't work in that mode. I ended up disabling Mac's radio (called Airport) using Edimax instead (one network as before). I set Edimax to broadcast on 2.4GHz and 5GHz simultaneously. Router is 2.4GHz only but Airport Express listens on both frequencies. I tested it for two days and have no single dropout even with microwave on. It might be addition of 5GHz or Edimax transmitter is just a bit stronger. Keep my fingers crossed.
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